Innovation Leader

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Innovation Leader to join our team, specializing in decorative plastics injection molding and die-cast components for the automotive and appliance industries. This role involves driving the development of new products and solutions that address customer needs and market trends, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainable technologies. The Innovation Leader will work cross-functionally with sales, engineering, and operations to implement concepts into customer projects and create an innovation roadmap that aligns with company strategy.

• Assess Customer Needs and Market Trends:
  • Engage with customers to gain insights into their priorities and challenges, particularly in the automotive and appliance sectors.
  • Analyze market trends and incorporate learnings from adjacent industries to propose new ideas and concepts that meet customer needs.
  • Pitch innovative product ideas and solutions to customers, positioning KI as a forward-thinking leader in the industry.
• Develop Innovative Products and Solutions:
  • Continuously scan the market for new technologies in molding, finishing processes (e.g., painting, metallizing), and sustainability solutions.
  • Assess the technical feasibility and market acceptance of new technologies and ideas within KI’s customer segments.
  • Develop innovative product solutions that address customer pain points while incorporating sustainability practices and circular economy principles.
• Create Innovation Roadmap:
  • Evaluate the sales potential and investment requirements of various innovation ideas and prioritize them accordingly.
  • Develop a timeline for innovation initiatives, aligning them with KI's business potential and strategic objectives.
  • Ensure that the innovation roadmap aligns with KI's overall strategy, capabilities, and long-term goals.
• Lead Implementation of Concepts into Customer Projects:
  • Act as the central hub between sales, engineering, and operations, translating innovative concepts into practical, executable solutions for customer projects.
  • Champion innovation both within KI and with customers, fostering buy-in and accelerating the adoption of new ideas and technologies.
  • Provide technical expertise and leadership to ensure the successful implementation of new products and solutions into production.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in the plastics injection molding industry or related fields, with a proven track record in product development and innovation.
• Strong knowledge of molding technologies, materials, and finishing processes (e.g., painting, metallizing).
• Experience in customer engagement and understanding of market trends in the automotive and appliance industries.
• Demonstrated ability to assess technical feasibility, market trends, and customer needs to drive product development.
• Familiarity with sustainability solutions and a passion for incorporating them into product development.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across functions.
• Ability to think strategically and drive innovative initiatives aligned with business objectives.
• Experience with advanced manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing, automation, or robotics.
• Familiarity with sustainability initiatives, particularly in the automotive and appliance industries.

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