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Global Fire Protection Portfolio R&D Technical Director

Sherwin-Williams


Job Location:

Bolton - UK

Monthly Salary: Not provided by the employer
Posted: 14 June 2026 (30+ days ago)
Application Deadline: 18 November 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Description

Are you an innovative R&D leader with a passion for developing industry-leading fire protection solutions We are seeking a highly skilled technical expert to drive the development and commercialization of our intumescent coatings this critical global role you will lead product innovation from concept through to market launch ensuring products meet the highest standards of performance compliance and customer value. Working across R&D marketing regulatory and operations teams you will play a key role in shaping the future of fire protection technology and supporting our strategic growth ambitions.



Responsibilities

Product Development & Execution

  • Lead the full lifecycle of product development for intumescent coatings ensuring timely and successful delivery from concept to commercialization.

  • Drive executional excellence across global R&D teams ensuring alignment with business cases and market strategies.

  • Champion innovation and continuous improvement in product performance application and system integration.

Regulatory Standards & Third-Party Testing

  • Serve as the technical authority on global fire protection standards (UL EN ASTM ISO) ensuring all products meet or exceed regulatory and certification requirements.

  • Develop and manage third-party testing programs including coordination with external laboratories and certification bodies.

  • Monitor and respond to evolving regulatory landscapes proactively adjusting development strategies to maintain compliance.

Physical Property & Compatibility Testing

  • Oversee rigorous testing of product physical properties including adhesion durability thermal expansion and fire resistance.

  • Ensure environmental and physical compatibility across substrates surface preparation methods primers and topcoats.

  • Lead system-level validation to ensure product performance in real-world applications.

Strategic Collaboration & Leadership

  • Partner closely with the Global Fire Portfolio Marketing Director to align technical development with customer needs market trends and strategic priorities.

  • Translate business cases into clear actionable R&D plans with defined deliverables and success metrics.

  • Provide technical leadership across cross-functional teams fostering collaboration between R&D marketing regulatory and operations.

  • Key Stakeholder in the delivery of the Fire Center of Excellence (FCOE) Approval and Completion



Qualifications
  • Advanced degree in Chemistry Materials Science Chemical Engineering or a related technical field.
  • Minimum of 10 years of leadership experience in coatings or specialty chemicals R&D with a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance and product delivery.
  • Deep expertise in global fire protection standards and certification processes including successful engagement with third-party testing agencies.

Preferred:

  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams manage complex technical programs and deliver results aligned with strategic business goals.
  • Strong background in physical property testing and system compatibility especially in multi-layer coating systems.
  • Skilled in technical decision-making risk management and resource prioritization across global teams.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to influence across technical and commercial domains.

What We Can Offer You...

  • The established salary range for this position is up to GBP 127000 gross annual in the UK.
  • Company bonus plan
  • Private medical insurance
  • Company car allowance
  • Life Pension Scheme: Company-contributed for your future security.
  • Flexible Working Schedule: Includes weekends and bank holidays.
  • Sick Pay and Annual Leave: Continued salary payment during sickness and 25 days of annual leave.
  • Work-Life Balance: We value your personal time and well-being.
  • Career Opportunities: Grow within a truly international business.
  • Ongoing Training and Support: Continuous learning and development opportunities.

Pay transparency

The salary range shown refers to base salary addition to this we offer a broader total reward package which may include bonus or incentive pay relevant allowances and a range of competitive benefits. We encourage candidates to consider the full package when evaluating an offer.

Salary is determined using a structured and objective framework taking into account the roles responsibilities required skills and experience market benchmarks and internal equity. This ensures pay decisions are fair consistent and aligned with our commitment to equal pay and legal compliance.

The salary range shown refers to base salary addition to this we offer a broader total reward package which may include bonus or incentive pay relevant allowances and a range of competitive benefits. We encourage candidates to consider the full package when evaluating an offer.

Salary is determined using a structured and objective framework taking into account the roles responsibilities required skills and experience market benchmarks and internal equity. This ensures pay decisions are fair consistent and aligned with our commitment to equal pay and legal compliance.

In accordance with EU pay transparency requirements we provide a salary range based on our preferred country of hire. Compensation varies depending on location. The salary range applicable to the location of candidate will be shared early in the recruitment process.

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Required Experience:

Director


About Company

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At Sherwin-Williams, our purpose is to inspire and improve the world by coloring and protecting what matters. Our paints, coatings and innovative solutions make the places and spaces in our world brighter and stronger. Your skills, talent and passion make it possible to live this purp ... View more

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