position title: Director of Film Innovation

location: Charlotte, NC / Mason, OH / Augusta, KY

position id: 6187

 

Overview

Our clients purpose is to better the world with new possibilities made real. For more than 160 years, the originating companies have delivered the material solutions their partners need to thrive. Through economic upheaval, global pandemics and changing end-user needs, they have consistently found ways to solve problems and exceed expectations. By bringing together these legacy companies, the distinct scale and comprehensive portfolio of products will bring customers more materials and choices. With a combined legacy of resilience, our client will build personal partnerships that withstand an ever-changing world.

The Director of Films Development will lead strategic innovation initiatives focused on cast and blown films, MDO technology, and advanced printing applications. This role will drive the development and commercialization of new film technologies and processes that align with sustainability goals and market needs. The Director will provide technical leadership, manage cross-functional teams, and build strong partnerships with internal stakeholders and external collaborators.

 

Responsibilities

· Lead the development of new film formulations and structures using cast, blown, and MDO technologies.

· Drive innovation in printing technologies for flexible packaging applications.

· Define and execute strategic R&D programs aligned with business objectives.

· Oversee experimental design and trials on bench, pilot, and commercial scale equipment.

· Collaborate with Product Line Marketing, Sales, Operations, and QA to ensure successful commercialization.

· Evaluate and implement new technologies and processes to enhance product performance and sustainability.

· Ensure intellectual property protection through FTO and CRF submissions.

· Analyze data, generate reports, and make recommendations for product and process improvements.

· Lead and mentor the films development team, providing strategic direction, performance management, and professional development.

Foster a collaborative and innovative team culture focused on delivering high-impact solutions.

· Engage with key suppliers, customers, and academic institutions to foster innovation.

· Maintain a strong focus on safety and compliance in all activities.

 

Qualifications

 

Education / Work Experience

· Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Science, or related field required; advanced degree preferred.

· 10+ years of experience in polymer film development, with deep expertise in cast, blown, and MDO films.

· Proven track record in printing technologies for flexible packaging.

· Experience with statistical analysis tools (e.g., DOE, Six Sigma).

· Strong technical, strategic, and financial acumen.

· Demonstrated leadership in managing complex innovation programs.

· Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

 

Competencies

· Leadership & Visionary Thinking – Inspires teams and drives strategic innovation.

· Technical Expertise – Mastery of film extrusion, orientation, and printing technologies.

· Business Acumen – Connects technical decisions to customer needs and financial impact.

· Problem Solving – Applies structured methodologies to resolve complex challenges.

· Change Management – Champions transformation and adapts to evolving market demands.

· Team Development – Coaches and grows high-performing technical teams.

· Communication – Articulates ideas clearly across all levels of the organization.

 

Travel Requirements

25–50% travel to support development programs, plant trials, and customer engagements.

 

Video Presentation

 

The role offers:

• Base salary ($185-200K+)
• Short Term Incentives = Annual Bonus = 20-25%
• Long Term Incentives = potential stock in the company based on growth
• Opportunity for C-Level work in the future
• Relocation
• 401k match
• Fully Paid Medical Benefits & other excellent insurance benefit

 

 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.