Application Engineering Manager
Job Overview
Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, with facilities in Croydon, UK; Kentucky and Oklahoma, USA; Brzeg, Poland; and Jiangsu Province, China (T-FIT).
We produce lightweight foams for a wide range of markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive, and healthcare. Zotefoams also owns and licenses patented technology and supplies advanced insulation systems.
The Company is on a strong growth trajectory, with significant revenue and profitability increases in recent years and ambitious plans for the future.
About the Role:
We are looking for an experienced and commercially minded Application Engineering Manager to lead a global team driving innovation and customer success across advanced polymer foam applications.
This is a pivotal leadership role, combining technical expertise with strategic thinking. You will shape how we deliver application engineering globally, ensuring our products meet real customer needs while unlocking new commercial opportunities.
You will act as a senior technical authority, partnering closely with commercial, innovation, and operations teams to support business growth across multiple regions and industries.
Role Responsibilities:
Technical & Commercial Leadership
Lead global application engineering activities across new and existing product applications
Translate technical insight into commercial opportunities that support business growth
Act as a senior technical expert for polymer foam applications, supporting key customers and innovation projects
Ensure strong understanding of customer requirements, market trends, and compliance standards
Team Leadership & Development
Build, lead, and develop a high-performing global engineering team
Drive capability development, succession planning, and continuous improvement
Set clear objectives aligned with business priorities
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and customer-focused culture
Project & Resource Management
Oversee a global portfolio of application engineering projects
Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to high technical standards
Allocate resources effectively across multiple priorities
Contribute to planning, budgeting, and laboratory utilisation
Knowledge & Collaboration
Develop and maintain best practice guidance and technical knowledge across the business
Ensure insights and learnings are shared globally
Partner with commercial, innovation, operations, and quality teams
Ensure compliance with relevant technical and regulatory standards
What you'll need:
Qualifications
Degree in Polymer Technology, Materials Science, Engineering, or similar
Experience
Significant experience in application engineering or a senior technical role within polymers, foam, or advanced materials
Proven experience working directly with customers on technical solutions
Strong people leadership experience, including coaching and team development
Experience managing complex, global projects
Skills
Strong leadership and communication skills
Commercial awareness with the ability to translate technical value into business impact
Strategic thinker with a practical, hands-on approach
Excellent organisational and problem-solving ability
Ability to build relationships across global and cross-functional teams
Why Join Us?
At Zotefoams, we believe in fostering a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
Our Values
Courage - The courage to take bold action to ensure that we succeed in tackling our challenges and opportunities.
Impact – Dedicated to making a significant and positive impact in everything we do.
Respect - Cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and collaboration is encouraged.
Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees