Director of Research Development

Malpack Ltd. is looking for energetic and motivated Director of Research and Development - Blown and Cast Film Extrusion to join our growing Company.Company DescriptionMalpack Ltd. (Malpack) is an industry leader and innovator in stretch film solutions in North America. Malpack has a legacy dating back to its origins in 1972 as a polybag manufacturer. It started production of plastic films in 1997 and is a leading producer and supplier of premium load security solutions based on High Performance stretch film to customers within distribution, beverage, food, consumer goods, e-commerce, and other industrial packaging. The Company has a strong market position in US and Canada. Turnover of Malpack is ~240 MEUR with a total of +260 employees. Head office and production is in Ajax, Ontario, Canada, with distribution centres located across North America. In 2023, Malpack was acquired by Trioworld Group, leading producer of sustainable packaging solutions founded in 1965.Malpack been at the forefront of innovation and development in the film industry with our commitment to providing high quality products and superior customer satisfaction.To learn more about Malpack, visit us at https : / / www.malpack.comCore ValuesAt Malpack, we are committed to re-thinking plastic and becoming number one in circularity within the flexible packaging industry. Together with our partners and customers, we want to be a leader who actively pushes the industry forward, changing it for the better.Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. It is the driving force for our business and our people. We push boundaries of what is possible through product innovation, and we take responsibility for our operation, economically, socially, and environmentally.Position OverviewWe are seeking a visionary Director of Research and Development with extensive experience in blown and cast film extrusion to lead the strategic direction and execution of our research and development initiatives. This role will be instrumental in driving innovation, advancing material technologies, and ensuring the development of high-performance film products that meet market demands and sustainability goals. This role reports to the President and CEO and is located in Ajax, ON.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership : Define and execute the R&D strategy for blown and cast film extrusion, aligning with the company’s business objectives and market trends.Identify and prioritize research opportunities in areas such as flexible packaging, agricultural films, industrial films, and sustainable materials.Innovation and Product Development : Lead the development of novel film formulations and structures, including multilayer and specialty films.Drive innovations in downgauging, recyclability, and performance optimization, including the use of meaningful levels of circular materials.Oversee projects involving advanced polymer systems (e.g., PE, PP, PA, EVOH, EVA, metallocenes) and additive technologies.Process Optimization : Implement and optimize extrusion processes to achieve best-in-class film properties, cost efficiency, and scalability.Guide teams in troubleshooting and refining extrusion processes, focusing on productivity and quality improvement.Team Leadership : Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing R&D team of scientists, engineers, and technicians.Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning.Collaboration and Partnerships : Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, quality, marketing, and sales, to align R&D efforts with business goals.Partner with resin suppliers, equipment manufacturers, and academic institutions to explore emerging technologies and materials.Market and Industry Engagement : Stay abreast of industry trends, customer needs, and regulatory requirements, particularly in the areas of sustainability and circular economy.Represent the company at conferences, trade shows, and technical forums, showcasing innovations and building the company’s reputation as a leader in the field.Sustainability and Circular Economy : Lead the development of sustainable film solutions, including recyclable, and downgauged products.Drive projects aimed at reducing environmental impact through innovative materials and processes.QualificationsEducation : Master’s or Ph.D. in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or a related field.Experience : 12+ years of progressive experience in polymer processing, with significant leadership roles in blown and cast film extrusion.Deep understanding of extrusion technologies, polymer rheology, and film testing and characterization.Proven track record of commercializing innovative film products and scaling technologies from concept to production.Skills : Exceptional leadership and strategic planning skills.Expertise in multilayer co-extrusion and specialty film applications.Strong knowledge of regulatory standards, sustainability practices, and global market dynamics.Proficiency in data analysis, process simulation, and design software.Personal Attributes : Visionary leader with a passion for innovation and excellence.Collaborative mindset with strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.Effective communicator, able to influence and inspire diverse stakeholders.Why Join Us?Lead groundbreaking R&D initiatives in a dynamic and fast-growing industry.Work with cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art facilities.Influence the development of sustainable solutions that address global challenges.How to ApplyInterested candidates may forward resumes and cover letters via email to [email protected] Include the job title in the subject line and salary expectations in your email. We thank all applicants in advance, however only those under consideration will be contacted, no phone calls please.Malpack invites applications from all qualified individuals. We are committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace, and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.Malpack is committed to being an accessible and inclusive workplace. Should you require any accommodations through any stage of the recruitment process, please let us know and we will work with you to meet your needs.