Head Of Development

Reed Engineering & Manufacturing are working with a leading Engineering & Manufacturing company About the Role We are seeking a skilled and motivated Metallurgist to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in driving product quality improvements, supporting customers, and contributing to the development of new products within a high-performance engineering environment. Key Responsibilities Lead projects focused on improving product quality and reducing costs (e.g. Yield, Right First Time). Work directly with customers to define technical requirements and resolve complex issues. Collaborate closely with operations teams to troubleshoot and resolve internal technical challenges. Ensure all technical documentation is accurately maintained and updated to required standards. Establish, track, and report on KPIs for key process operations. Support the development and introduction of new products. Promote and adhere to a strong culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement. Mentor and support graduate engineers and placement students. Travel (UK & international) as required to support customer visits and subcontract activities. Skills & Experience Required Essential: Bachelor’s Degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, or a related discipline. Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in a relevant industrial environment. Experience within aerospace, oil & gas, or power generation sectors. Strong understanding of physical metallurgy, particularly steel and nickel-based alloys. Knowledge of OEM quality systems and customer requirements. Experience using improvement tools such as: RCCA (Root Cause Corrective Action) SPC (Statistical Process Control) Error Proofing / Poka-Yoke Problem-solving methodologies Flexible approach to working hours to support customer visits and audits when required. What We Offer Competitive salary and benefits package Opportunity to work on high-value engineering projects Career progression within a growing, technically focused organisation Supportive team environment with a strong focus on development and mentoring

Head of Innovation West Sussex Full time & permanent role Excellent salary & benefits About the Role We are seeking an exceptional Head of Science & Innovation to lead and shape the strategic direction of global science teams across a market-leading organisation operating within pest management and hygiene-related sectors. This is a high-impact leadership position focused on driving front-end innovation, translating ideas into commercially viable solutions, and delivering tangible products and services to market. You will play a critical role in aligning innovation roadmaps with broader business strategy while fostering a culture of technical excellence and creativity. Key Responsibilities Include: Innovation & Commercial Delivery Lead early-stage innovation, developing concepts from idea through to proof of concept and market-ready solutions Identify portfolio gaps and generate commercially viable product and service opportunities Drive front-end innovation initiatives with a clear focus on customer value and business growth Establish and manage a robust innovation pipeline, ensuring timely delivery and measurable outcomes Leadership & Strategic Direction Provide strong, visible leadership to global science and R&D teams, fostering high performance and continuous development Align global technical teams and centres of excellence with strategic business priorities Lead cross-functional collaboration across regions, ensuring effective delivery in a complex, international environment Technical & Customer Excellence Act as a senior technical authority, providing expert guidance on complex or high-profile challenges Support key commercial opportunities, including bids and strategic customer engagements About You We are looking for a commercially minded innovation leader who combines deep technical expertise with a proven track record of delivering real-world solutions. Essential Skills & Experience Strong experience in innovation leadership, R&D, or technical management in a relevant industry Proven ability to drive front-end innovation and take concepts through to successful market launch Demonstrable commercial mindset, with experience aligning technical innovation to business outcomes Track record of delivering practical, scalable solutions that create measurable impact Desirable Experience in pest control, biocides, pesticides, or related sectors Background working within global organisations or complex regulatory environments Exposure to open innovation, external partnerships, or technology scouting If you possess the required skills and experience, please apply via the link below.

Head of Innovation West Sussex Full time & permanent role Excellent salary & benefits About the Role We are seeking an exceptional Head of Science & Innovation to lead and shape the strategic direction of global science teams across a market-leading organisation operating within pest management and hygiene-related sectors. This is a high-impact leadership position focused on driving front-end innovation, translating ideas into commercially viable solutions, and delivering tangible products and services to market. You will play a critical role in aligning innovation roadmaps with broader business strategy while fostering a culture of technical excellence and creativity. Key Responsibilities Include: Innovation & Commercial Delivery Lead early-stage innovation, developing concepts from idea through to proof of concept and market-ready solutions Identify portfolio gaps and generate commercially viable product and service opportunities Drive front-end innovation initiatives with a clear focus on customer value and business growth Establish and manage a robust innovation pipeline, ensuring timely delivery and measurable outcomes Leadership & Strategic Direction Provide strong, visible leadership to global science and R&D teams, fostering high performance and continuous development Align global technical teams and centres of excellence with strategic business priorities Lead cross-functional collaboration across regions, ensuring effective delivery in a complex, international environment Technical & Customer Excellence Act as a senior technical authority, providing expert guidance on complex or high-profile challenges Support key commercial opportunities, including bids and strategic customer engagements About You We are looking for a commercially minded innovation leader who combines deep technical expertise with a proven track record of delivering real-world solutions. Essential Skills & Experience Strong experience in innovation leadership, R&D, or technical management in a relevant industry Proven ability to drive front-end innovation and take concepts through to successful market launch Demonstrable commercial mindset, with experience aligning technical innovation to business outcomes Track record of delivering practical, scalable solutions that create measurable impact Desirable Experience in pest control, biocides, pesticides, or related sectors Background working within global organisations or complex regulatory environments Exposure to open innovation, external partnerships, or technology scouting If you possess the required skills and experience, please apply via the link below.

Analytical Scientist - HPLC Assays Job Type: Permanent, Full-time, Mon-Fri Location: Bedfordshire, UK Salary: £27,500 - £33,500 p.a Join a pioneering organisation in the field of synthetic affinity reagents, enhancing cell and gene therapy processes. We are looking for an Analytical Chemist to assist in analytical services and quality control activities, focusing on the development and delivery of innovative polymer products. The role is based in a scenic area of Bedfordshire, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and leisure amenities including an onsite gym and nearby golf course. Day-to-Day of the Role: Conduct routine analysis of polymers and related materials, ensuring reliable data generation. Execute established analytical and quality control methods, meticulously recording, reviewing data, and documenting results. Operate HPLC-based characterisation assays and support routine analytical method verification and Quality Control testing. Maintain laboratory consumable inventories and uphold general laboratory cleanliness and organisation. Engage in analytical method development and continuous improvement activities. Required Skills & Qualifications: Science degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field. Essential: Previous experience running HPLC assays in a development or Quality Control capacity. 1–2 years postgraduate experience with analytical tools preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft software packages (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook). Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Commitment to accurate record-keeping to GLP and ISO9001 standards. Benefits: Enjoy 25 days of annual leave, private health insurance, life assurance (5x salary), and an employee pension scheme (4% employer contribution). To apply for the Analytical Chemist position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience. Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements to live and work in the UK.

Quality & Process Technologist Annual Salary: Negotiable, dependent on experience Location: West Yorkshire Job Type: Full-time We are seeking a Quality & Process Technologist to join our client's team. This role is crucial for supporting product quality, process optimisation, production implementation, and technical laboratory activities. The ideal candidate will combine Quality Control testing responsibilities with wider product and process improvement duties to support operational excellence and continuous improvement across the manufacturing process. Day-to-day of the role: Support the implementation and transfer of products from laboratory development into full production, acting as a key link between technical development and plant operations. Assist with product improvement initiatives on plant. Support process optimisation activities to improve efficiency, consistency, and product quality. Carry out laboratory technical work to support production and development requirements. Work collaboratively with Production, Technical and Quality teams to resolve process and product issues including troubleshooting process issues and investigating deviations. Identify opportunities for process, product, and quality improvements. Support root cause analysis and corrective action implementation. Contribute to continuous improvement projects across manufacturing operations. Evaluate new raw materials from suppliers, including performance testing and compatibility with existing formulations. Conduct QC batch testing in line with company procedures and specifications. Record, analyse, and communicate testing results accurately and efficiently. Escalate non-conformances and support corrective action activities. Maintain laboratory standards, equipment calibration, and testing documentation. Required Skills & Qualifications: Minimum 2 years’ experience within chemical manufacturing, quality control, or technical operations. Degree or equivalent (e.g., apprenticeship) in Chemistry. Strong attention to detail and organisational skills. Good communication and problem-solving abilities. Ability to independently analyse data and draw informed, evidence-based conclusions. Understanding of quality and process control principles. Experience within chemical manufacturing or FMCG environments is desirable. Knowledge of laboratory testing procedures and production processes. Understanding of continuous improvement methodologies is advantageous. Benefits: Annual holiday 22 days per annum plus bank holidays – increasing by 1 per year up to a maximum of 25 days. Pension 3% employer and 5% employee contribution. Option to take up the pension salary sacrifice scheme from day 1. Life assurance – join scheme from day 1. Free on-site parking which includes free access to EV charge points. Employee Assistance Program which includes a 24/7 virtual GP service and up to 6 sessions of coaching/counselling. Discretionary annual bonus which is assessed against company financial performance targets as well as individual performance. To apply for this Quality & Process Technologist position, please submit your CV detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this position. Our client is unfortunately unable to sponsor candidates to work in the UK.

Lab Technician (Insect Rearing) Location: Oxford, UK Job Type: Temporary (3 months initially until October with possibility of extension) Salary: £13.45 per hour Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 37.5 hours a week Join our innovative team as a Technician, where you will be part of a dynamic project dedicated to developing sustainable biological technologies for pest control. This temporary position is an excellent opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that aims to improve global food security and public health. Daily Responsibilities: Maintain multiple insect colonies to ensure timely availability for mass rearing evaluations. Assist in setting up experiments and collecting data in accordance with specified protocols to support mass production and release strategies. Record data meticulously and document activities within laboratory books or other records. Maintain laboratory tidiness and support the team’s adherence to procedures, regulations, and health and safety standards. Prepare and maintain laboratory stock solutions, insect diets, and equipment, including ordering laboratory supplies. Assist with updating health and safety records, SOPs, COSHH, and risk assessments. Communicate clearly with the rearing development scientist and team lead regarding experimental status. Provide occasional weekend support as part of a rota within the R&D team. Required Skills & Qualifications: A-levels in a scientific subject. Experience in a biological sciences laboratory preferred, with insect rearing expertise desirable. Strong communication skills. Creative problem-solving skills and the ability to develop applied solutions. Ability to adapt and thrive in an environment of change and ambiguity. Benefits: Opportunity to work in a cutting-edge field of biological technology. Be part of a passionate team dedicated to making a significant impact on global health and food security. Supportive and innovative workplace culture. To apply for this Technician position, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role.

Job Title: Development Technologist Location: Staffordshire Salary: £35k - £50k dependent on experience Benefits: 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, pension, free on-site parking, on-site gym, Role Overview We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Development Technologist to strengthen our client's technical team. This role is central to supporting innovation and product development activities, working across R&D, NPD (New Product Development), RME (Raw Material Evaluation) and the manufacture of high-quality small-lot products for direct customer sales. The successful candidate will play a key role in transforming ideas into commercially viable products through pilot-scale processing and technical collaboration. We are open to applicants at various levels of experience. Key Responsibilities Operate and optimise pilot-scale processing equipment, including Twin-screw compounder, Blown film line and Injection moulding equipment Produce materials and products for Research & Development (R&D), New Product Development (NPD), Raw Material Evaluation (RME), Small-scale commercial production Ensure accurate handling, tracking, and movement of materials through ERP systems Maintain stock control and support material inventory management Adhere strictly to COSHH regulations and safe material handling practices Work both independently and collaboratively to meet project and production deadlines Maintain excellent documentation and reporting standards Support the Quality Manager with Quality control (QC) testing of finished products and ensuring product consistency and compliance Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement within the Innovation Centre Qualifications, Skills & Experience Required Degree in Polymer Science, Material Science or a related discipline Expertise in formulation, compounding, extrusion, scale‑up, and SOPs Proven experience operating polymer processing equipment (e.g. extrusion, compounding, blown film, injection moulding at pilot plant scale) Understanding of polymer materials and processing techniques Experience using ERP systems for material control and stock management Working knowledge of COSHH and health & safety requirements Strong attention to detail with a systematic and organised approach Effective communication skills across technical and non-technical teams Ability to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team Desirable Skills Experience supporting R&D or NPD environments Familiarity with analytical or testing equipment Previous involvement in scaling products from concept to production Experience in QC testing and quality systems Training & Development Full training will be provided on specific processing and analytical equipment where required. This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop within a highly innovative and well-invested technical environment. Personal Attributes Proactive and hands-on approach Passion for innovation and product development Strong problem-solving mindset Desire to see ideas progress into commercial success What's in it for you? You will be part of a growing team that benefits from continuous investment and cutting-edge polymer processing and analytical capabilities, offering real scope to contribute to impactful, market-ready solutions and offering opportunities for career progression. Our client is unable to provide sponsorship to work in the UK.

Group Compliance Manager – Food Manufacturing 12 Months Maternity Cover £55,000 - £60,000 Wrexham Are you an experienced Technical or Compliance leader in the Food Manufacturing sector with demonstrable internal auditing experience and looking for a role with an incredible amount of responsibility for multi-site compliance? This leading Food Manufacturer specialises in ready meal solutions for big supermarkets & foodservice providers, having over 100 years of history and a strong footprint in the UK. They operate several modern production facilities and have benefited from significant investment in recent years. In this role you will be responsible for leading and delivering audit programmes across the company’s UK manufacturing sites, ensuring they consistently meet internal, customer and regulatory standards. You’ll play a critical role in identifying risks, implementing improvements and strengthening overall performance. The ideal candidate will have experience working as a Lead or Group auditor – or will have held this responsibility in a Technical or Compliance leadership role – where they have overseen multiple audit programmes and continuous improvement activities in line with BRC and major retailer standards. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to step into a high-impact role at the group level where they will be able to significantly influence standards and performance across multiple sites. Day-to-day of the role: Leading and delivering internal audit programmes across multiple sites while ensuring technical teams are capable of carrying out their own internal audits Assessing site compliance against food safety, quality, and regulatory standards Identifying risks, gaps, and improvement opportunities, and supporting sites in implementing corrective actions Collaborating with technical and operational teams to drive audit readiness and best practice Monitoring trends and performance data to inform continuous improvement initiatives The ideal person will have: Significant experience in the Food Manufacturing sector as a Technical or Compliance leader, with a proven track record in carrying out internal audits Excellent knowledge of BRC standards and those of major retailers Demonstrable experience implementing or improving FSQA or Technical Management systems Full UK driving license and comfortable with travel to sites near London when required BRC Lead Auditor certification If you are interested in this position, click apply or contact Stuart Goble at Reed.

Product Development Manager Location: West Yorkshire Job Type: Permanent Salary: Negotiable, dependent on experinece We are seeking a Product Development Manager to lead our client's product formulation and development function. This role is crucial for delivering innovation projects from concept to completion, managing the R&D Technicians team, and driving formulation excellence in alignment with our commercial objectives and regulatory standards. Day-to-day of the role: Lead the development, optimisation, and commercialisation of product formulations in accordance with the Innovation Programme and business strategy. Translate customer, market, and commercial requirements into innovative and commercially viable product solutions. Oversee formulation projects from concept through laboratory development, scale-up, validation, and production handover. Generate, analyse, and apply technical data to support robust product design, process development, and successful manufacturing scale-up. Identify opportunities for product enhancement, cost optimisation, and innovation. Maintain product formulations, Bills of Materials (BOMs), recipes, specifications, and associated technical documentation for product ranges. Manage multiple product development projects, ensuring delivery against timelines, budgets, and quality standards. Ensure all formulations and product developments comply with relevant regulatory, industry, and customer requirements. Lead, mentor, and develop the R&D Technicians and wider laboratory team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. Required Skills & Qualifications: Degree or qualification in Chemistry or a related subject Proven experience in product development, formulation, or R&D management. Strong project management and organisational skills. Minimum of 3 years' experience leading or supervising technical teams. Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively. Desirable: Experience with water-based dispersions To apply for the Product Development Manager position, please submit your CV detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role.

Product Development Manager Location: West Yorkshire Job Type: Permanent Salary: Negotiable, dependent on experience We are seeking a Product Development Manager to lead our client's product formulation and development function. This role is crucial for delivering innovation projects from concept to completion, managing the R&D Technicians team, and driving formulation excellence in alignment with our commercial objectives and regulatory standards. Day-to-day of the role: Lead the development, optimisation, and commercialisation of product formulations in accordance with the Innovation Programme and business strategy. Translate customer, market, and commercial requirements into innovative and commercially viable product solutions. Oversee formulation projects from concept through laboratory development, scale-up, validation, and production handover. Generate, analyse, and apply technical data to support robust product design, process development, and successful manufacturing scale-up. Identify opportunities for product enhancement, cost optimisation, and innovation. Maintain product formulations, Bills of Materials (BOMs), recipes, specifications, and associated technical documentation for product ranges. Manage multiple product development projects, ensuring delivery against timelines, budgets, and quality standards. Ensure all formulations and product developments comply with relevant regulatory, industry, and customer requirements. Lead, mentor, and develop the R&D Technicians and wider laboratory team, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. Required Skills & Qualifications: Degree or qualification in Chemistry or a related subject Proven experience in product development, formulation, or R&D management. Strong project management and organisational skills. Minimum of 3 years' experience leading or supervising technical teams. Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively. Desirable: Experience with water-based dispersions To apply for the Product Development Manager position, please submit your CV detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role.