About the role
The General Manager – R&D (Synthesis Chemistry) will lead the Research & Development function for the organization, focusing on process development, synthesis chemistry, product innovation, scale-up, and commercialization of specialty chemicals, intermediates, APIs, agrochemicals, or related products. The role involves managing laboratory operations, pilot plant activities, technology transfer, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property development.
Key ResponsibilitiesResearch & Product Development
- Lead research activities related to organic synthesis, process chemistry, and new product development.
- Develop cost-effective and scalable manufacturing processes.
- Identify opportunities for new products and technology improvements.
- Conduct route scouting, process optimization, and yield enhancement studies.
- Support development of specialty chemicals, intermediates, and custom synthesis projects.
- Lead laboratory-to-pilot and pilot-to-commercial scale-up activities.
- Ensure successful technology transfer from R&D to manufacturing.
- Troubleshoot process-related issues and recommend improvements.
- Improve product quality, process efficiency, and manufacturing economics.
- Plan and execute R&D projects within timelines and budgets.
- Coordinate with Production, QA/QC, Engineering, Procurement, and Regulatory departments.
- Monitor project milestones and provide regular progress updates to management.
- Drive innovation initiatives and develop proprietary technologies.
- Prepare technical reports, patents, and scientific documentation.
- Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging technologies.
- Ensure compliance with EHS, GMP, ISO, and applicable regulatory requirements.
- Maintain proper documentation and laboratory records.
- Support regulatory filings and customer audits.
- Lead and mentor scientists, chemists, analysts, and R&D personnel.
- Develop technical capabilities and succession planning within the department.
- Establish performance goals and monitor team effectiveness.
- Prepare and manage annual R&D budgets.
- Optimize utilization of laboratory equipment and resources.
- Evaluate and procure new technologies and analytical instruments.
- Ph.D. / M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry, Synthetic Chemistry, Industrial Chemistry, or related field.
- Additional management qualifications will be an advantage.
- 15–20+ years of experience in Chemical Manufacturing R&D.
- Minimum 5 years in a senior leadership role.
- Proven experience in synthesis chemistry, process development, and commercial scale-up.
- Experience in specialty chemicals, agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, dyes, pigments, or intermediates preferred.
- Organic synthesis and process chemistry.
- Route scouting and process optimization.
- Scale-up and technology transfer.
- Analytical techniques and interpretation.
- Project management and regulatory compliance.
- Patent drafting and technical documentation.
- Strategic Thinking
- Leadership & Team Management
- Innovation & Problem Solving
- Project Execution
- Communication & Stakeholder Management
- Business Acumen
- New product development success rate.
- Process cost reduction achieved.
- Yield and productivity improvements.
- Successful commercial scale-ups.
- Patent filings and technology innovations.
- R&D project completion within timelines.
- Team productivity and retention.
Reporting ToDirector / CEO / Managing Director
LocationPoicha ,Rania ,Vadodara