At AFA, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. As a research leader within our Research & Innovation (R&I) team, you will be the science and innovation instigator, by mentoring and driving researchers into adopting a scientific approach to projects, aiming to bring novelty into dispensing systems through different prisms such as technology, sustainability, user experience, business insight, etc.
You will have a double role to play as leading a team currently with 3 researchers but also in generating, exploring and implementing by yourself new ideas targeting feasible, functional, sustainable, desirable and viable solutions. In this role, you will be part of a multi-disciplinary team with researchers, mechanical and quality engineers, a designer and a product manager. You will also collaborate with outer partners, such as research labs, experts, technology suppliers.
You will report directly to the Research & Innovation Director and operate as part of AFA’s global R&I organization, bridging creativity into science and science into technology.
Key responsibilities
As a team leader:
- Lead researchers through a scientific approach to innovation, with mentorship on research activities and tools, experimentation protocol definition, partnership development.
- Implementation of training and any necessary means allowing the team to work on a 360 product mindset, by reviewing patents, scientific content, business reviews, market insights and user experience.
- In collaboration with the team, identify research topics for future projects, based on scientific, technical, UX insights gathered through fundamental research that are responding to at least one of R&I strategic pillars.
- Research projects relevancy and prioritization: in collaboration with R&I stakeholders but also with our project manager, ensure that all projects are aligned with the teams’ goals for R&I short/mid/long term targets.
- Be the key contact within AFA for research activities.
As a researcher:
- For the projects you will lead, have the ownership of project performance exploration and validation, but also of designing and executing experimental protocols and creating structured reporting with project scope, timeline and risk analysis.
- Product benchmark and competitor analysis – technology, performance and usage.
Your Profile
- Bachelor, master’s degree or PhD in engineering, material science, packaging, innovation or other relatable field.
- At least 10 years experience in material science, packaging sustainability and safety regulations, personal care or consumer goods industry is a plus. Proven experience managing a team.
- Creative thinker with business-driven mindset and scientific curiosity towards projects.
- Strong communicator who enjoys collaborating with diverse teams with different backgrounds and cultures.
- Hands-on and proactive.
- Strong analytical and collaborative skills.
- Fluent in English (written and spoken).
- Willingness to travel occasionally to global AFA locations.
What do we offer?
- Creative Impact: Work on innovative product and technology concepts that shape AFA’s future portfolio.
- Collaboration Across Disciplines: Engage with engineers, designers, scientists, and business professionals in a dynamic environment.
- Inspiring Location: Based in the creative and tech-driven Strijp-T district in Eindhoven — a hub for design and innovation.
- Attractive Compensation: Competitive salary with a performance-based bonus.
- Tools & Flexibility: Company laptop and mobile phone, plus flexibility to work from different locations.
- Contract Stability: One-year contract with the intention of permanent employment after proven performance.
- Time to Recharge: 30 vacation days (based on a 40-hour workweek).
- Pension Plan: AFA contributes 40% toward your pension premium.
- Learning & Growth: Continuous opportunities for professional development and training.
- Inclusive Culture: Work in an international, open, and inspiring team where creativity, courage, and collaboration define success.
Why Join AFA Dispensing?
You’ll join an international, innovation-driven organization that values teamwork, reliability, and growth. If you’re interested, please send your CV and motivation to [email protected], attention to Gertia Haerkens, International Recruiter. We look forward to hearing from you!
