Head of R&D

Overview
BIOWEG is looking for a Head of R&D to lead and scale our research and product innovation activities. In this role, you will oversee all R&D and technical teams, driving scientific excellence, product development and innovation strategy across the organization. You will help advance BIOWEG's mission to develop high-performance, biodegradable ingredients that replace fossil-based polymers and microplastics.

If you have extensive experience in R&D management and enjoy leading cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment, this position offers the opportunity to shape BIOWEG's innovation roadmap.

Your Role

• Define and execute BIOWEG's R&D strategy and long-term innovation roadmap aligned with business goals and market needs
• Build, lead and mentor high-performing multidisciplinary teams
• Establish a structured stage-gate framework with clear decision criteria, risk management and resourcing plans
• Manage the R&D portfolio, ensuring scope, budget and KPI delivery through data-driven experimentation and robust process governance
• Oversee process development, piloting, pre-FAT/FAT/SAT readiness and technology transfer in collaboration with Engineering and Production teams
• Ensure compliance with EU regulations and quality standards, coordinating data packages and ingredient dossiers while maintaining continuous monitoring and documentation
• Drive safety, ESG and LCA integration across R&D to ensure sustainability, biodegradability and responsible innovation
• Strengthen QA/QC and digital infrastructure for traceability, reproducibility and effective quality management
• Define testing methods and release panels for raw materials and finished ingredients
• Shape BIOWEG's IP strategy, manage collaborations and partnerships with universities, CROs and industry partners, and negotiate MTAs, NDAs and JRAs
• Support customer evaluations and translate technical feedback into future R&D roadmaps
• Optimise R&D resources and budgets, leveraging grants and public funding programs

Your Profile

• A higher degree in Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Chemistry, or a related field
• 15+ years of experience in R&D or product development, including proven leadership in managing multidisciplinary teams
• Strong experience in developing and implementing R&D strategies and innovation roadmaps
• Track record of managing IP portfolios and fostering technology partnerships
• Excellent leadership skills with a track record of building and motivating high-performing teams
• Hands-on, proactive and adaptable mindset with the ability to thrive in a start-up environment
• Strong analytical, organizational and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal

Why Us?

• Build and scale your own team: Hire, mentor and grow your high-performing team from scratch
• Fast-track leadership: Outpace corporate career paths with 2x responsibility in 12–18 months
• Equity and impact: Earn stock options and directly reduce microplastic pollution (we measure it)
• Founder-level access: Pitch ideas monthly to our CEO and board. No bureaucracy

About Us
BIOWEG is a purpose-driven company developing bio-based alternatives to fossil-based ingredients using Biotech and Green Chemistry.

We create sustainable products that match or even outperform fossil-based alternatives while remaining price competitive. Our main products, MicBeads (sensory micropowder) and RheoWeg (rheology modifier), are used by leading cosmetics and chemical companies.

We are driving to create a better world and a lasting, sustainable impact. Join our diverse and relentless team to revolutionize and drive green innovation across multiple industries.