VCM Research Manager

About the role

The VCM Research Manager will drive the sustainability and growth of INEOS Inovyn’s PVC and OCD businesses. You will lead R&D activities that improve Ethylene Dichloride (EDC), Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM) and OCD processes while developing new technologies and catalysts.

Key responsibilities

• Steer and manage a portfolio of R&D projects aligned with business and production site needs.
• Develop new oxychlorination catalysts and optimise VCM‑EDC production processes.
• Create new OCD products and processes, including valorisation of CAL‑EPI co‑products.
• Provide scientific and chemical expertise across the organisation.
• Manage VCM and OCD laboratories in Jemeppe (BE) and Porsgrunn (NO).
• Develop know‑how tools, deliver training on VCM and OCD, and oversee the IP portfolio.

Required profile

• PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 15+ years in applied industrial R&D, with at least 2‑3 years leading an R&D team.
• Deep understanding of chemical industrial processes, heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis, and organic chemistry.
• Knowledge of EDC, VCM, Ethylene, OCD and catalyst production processes, including safety, optimisation and analytical characterisation.
• Proficiency with process‑explorer tools such as ASPEN and literature databases like SciFinder.
• Strong analytical, conceptual and result‑oriented mindset.
• Fluent in English and French; additional languages are a plus.

Required skills

• ASPEN
• SciFinder
• Heterogeneous catalysis
• Homogeneous catalysis
• Organic chemistry
• Process engineering
• Analytical chemistry
• Intellectual property management