The Performance Surfaces segment is part of Apogee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: APOG), founded in 1949 and headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. Apogee is a growing, profitable company with annual revenues approaching $1.5 billion. It provides distinctive metal and glass solutions for enclosing commercial buildings, and glass and acrylic solutions for picture framing and display applications. To learn more visit www.apog.com.
The Performance Surfaces segment, has grown from $100M to $200M in revenue through a recent acquisition. Our brands in the Performance Surfaces portfolio develop and manufacture high-performance coated materials for a variety of applications, including wall décor, museums, graphic design, architectural interiors, digital display, and industrial flooring markets. We are the global leader in anti-reflective, conservation grade electrostatic dissipative, high-definition, and abrasion resistance coatings, that provide protection, innovative designs, and exceptional durability.
Position Summary
The Vice President of Research and Development has responsibility for advancing the business’ portfolio of technologies to deliver innovative differentiated solutions for target markets. This role will also focus on new product development process leadership and development of the R&D team across multiple locations.
Responsibilities
Build vision and operational plan for R&D for segment that aligns with segment growth strategy
Ensure all products meet necessary safety, environmental and industry regulations.
Lead the new product development process and chair the steering committee to ensure we are actively managing the pipeline to focus on the most attractive opportunities where we have a right to win
Align the company’s technology resources with the organization’s short- and long-term goals
Attract, develop and retain technical talent
Create and implement technology strategies and operational plans
Develop and execute portfolio intellectual property (IP) approach with legal team
Ensure there are standard processes to capture and digitize all R&D activities
Develop a strong external network to determine the latest trends and developments from a technology perspective (i.e. industry associations and educational programs and by attending relevant trade shows/conferences)
Develop and sustain customer and supplier relationships critical to the long-term success of the business
Participate in M&A activities including initial scouting, due diligence, investment thesis discussions and integration
Implement best practices to enhance production efficiencies, reduce costs, and improve quality control.
Personal Attributes and Experience
Proven experience as an R&D leader who has developed their team
Proven ability to collaborate across functions, particularly with operations to scale solutions and business teams
Understanding of coatings formulation and coating processes (preferably UV, EB and sputter coatings on substrates like aluminum, wood, vinyl, glass and acrylic).
Ability to provide guidance regarding product lifecycles and next generation materials
Strong new product development and commercialization experience
Knowledge of technological trends to build strategy
Ability to conduct technological analyses and research
Strong communication skills
Data driven and solution oriented
Delivering outcomes within budget
Proficient in Microsoft Office and BatchMaster formulation software
Additional Qualifications
Minimum bachelor’s degree in chemistry or engineering
Minimum 10 years industry experience
Travel Requirements
30-40% travel for visits to other lab and plant locations in USA or abroad as needed and for tradeshows, prospect or customer visits, etc.
Apogee and our brands are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Similar Jobs
What We Do
By definition, Apogee means "highest point." It's no coincidence that it's also the name of our company. For over 70 years it is a name that has inspired and driven us to achieve a higher level of excellence in all we do. We are not satisfied with the status quo. We aim higher, think bigger, and endeavor to create even more value for every Apogee stakeholder. We strive to create peak value.
Apogee is a leader in architectural products and services. Our glass and aluminum window, storefront and curtainwall systems make buildings look great, reduce energy consumption, and protect occupants and property. Our highly skilled team designs glass and metal building façades, completes massive orders for skyscrapers on time, and manages complex window, curtainwall and storefront installation projects.
We are also a leader in the protection and conservation of all things framed and displayed. Our Tru Vue business provides high-performance glass and acrylic products for the custom framing, fine art, and technical glass markets.
