R&D Team lead/Manager, Gunsan

Sika is a specialty chemicals company with a globally leading position in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing, and protection in the building sector and automotive industry. Sika has subsidiaries in 103 countries around the world and, in over 400 factories, produces innovative technologies for customers worldwide. In doing so, it plays a crucial role in enabling the transformation of the construction and vehicle industries toward greater environmental compatibility. With more than 34,000 employees, the company generated sales of CHF 11.7 billion in 2024. Since 1998, Sika AG is present in Korea through its subsidiary Sika Korea Ltd. which employs more than 90 people and has branch offices in Ansung.

**Research & Development**

• Lead development of innovative automotive adhesives and industrial/construction products with focus on formulation optimization and cost competitiveness.
• Design and execute laboratory experiments, DOE studies, and product validation plans; scale formulations to pilot and commercial production.
• Evaluate raw materials and identify alternative suppliers to improve performance and supply security.
• Support customer projects through technical discussions, sample preparation, application testing, and troubleshooting.
• Maintain technical documentation including formulations, technical reports, specifications, and test methods.
• Monitor industry trends, competitor technologies, and emerging materials to support innovation.

**Quality Control & Quality Assurance**

• Establish and maintain quality control systems for raw materials, in-process products, and finished goods; develop and optimize QC testing methods and acceptance criteria.
• Investigate customer complaints and quality issues using structured root cause analysis (8D, Fishbone, 5 Why); implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Support ISO quality management systems and internal/external audits; monitor quality KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

**Manufacturing & Process Support**

• Provide technical support to manufacturing for troubleshooting, process optimization, and production efficiency improvements.
• Support new product scale-up, process validation, and technology transfer from R&D to production; collaborate with Operations to improve consistency and reduce waste.

**Customer & Business Support**

• Provide technical presentations and training to customers, distributors, and internal teams.
• Support customer qualification, field trials, and product approvals; work with Sales and Marketing to identify market opportunities.

**Team Leadership**

• Lead and develop the R&D and QC team through coaching, mentoring, and performance management; allocate resources effectively for timely project execution.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, quality, and safety; promote laboratory best practices and ensure EHS compliance.

Requirements

• Master or Doctoral degree in Polymer Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in adhesive product development, preferably in automotive or industrial adhesives.
• At least 3 years of people management experience in R&D or Quality.
• Automotive, textile lamination, packaging, or industrial adhesive experience is preferred.
• Strong awareness of EHS standards and commitment to safety compliance.
• Strong knowledge of:

• Polyurethane dispersion (PUD) technology
• Polymer chemistry and formulation development
• Adhesive application and testing methods
• Experience with analytical instruments and laboratory testing.
• Knowledge of Design of Experiments (DOE), Statistical Process Control (SPC), and quality tools.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and EHS requirements is an advantage.

SOFT SKILLS

• Innovation and problem-solving
• Strong technical leadership
• Project management
• Customer orientation
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Fluent in English

The R&D Manager is responsible for leading the development, optimization, and quality management of mainly automotive adhesives (i.e. PUD adhesives, coating, etc) and some construction products (i.e. flooring etc). This role ensures that products meet customer requirements, industry standards, and regulatory compliance while driving innovation, manufacturing excellence, and continuous improvement. The position works closely with Sales, Production, Supply Chain, and customers to support business growth and operational excellence.

We offer competitive salaries, aligned with local market benchmarks and the specific scope and responsibilities of each role. Compensation is determined based skills relevant to the position, education and/or training. We are committed to fair and equitable pay practices in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.