Digital & Automation Leader

Unlocking Innovation: A Deep Dive into the BW S&T Automation and Digital Portfolio Leader Role

For ambitious professionals at the intersection of science and technology, the opportunity to shape the future of product innovation is a compelling prospect. The BW S&T Automation and Digital Portfolio Leader – Physical and Chemical Sciences role at Port Sunlight presents exactly this – a chance to lead transformative initiatives within a dynamic R&D environment. This review aims to illuminate the advantages and key considerations for potential candidates, guiding them in assessing this exciting career path.

What Makes This Opportunity Stand Out?

This role is not merely about managing existing processes; it's about pioneering new frontiers. The core purpose is to strategically deploy digital, automation, and modelling technologies within Physical and Chemical Sciences (PCS). This translates into tangible benefits for candidates:

• Strategic Impact: You will be the central figure in defining and implementing a clear technical roadmap, directly influencing the company's innovation ambition and driving significant return on investment (RoI).
• Cutting-Edge Technology: This position offers hands-on involvement with advanced data science, AI/ML, and automation, allowing you to stay at the forefront of technological advancements.
• Global Reach and Influence: You'll collaborate with global program owners, shape investment roadmaps, and champion the needs of BW S&T PCS across broader R&D communities.
• Strategic Partnerships: A significant aspect of the role involves building and leading collaborations with both internal and external partners, including a pivotal role in the Materials Innovation Factory. This is an excellent platform for expanding your professional network and gaining experience in managing high-profile alliances.
• Leadership and Development: You will have the opportunity to manage and mentor a team of scientists, fostering a high-performance culture and contributing to talent development and succession planning.
• Innovation Pipeline: The role emphasizes building a portfolio of impactful case studies and a robust transfer funnel, providing clear visibility and recognition for your contributions to innovation delivery.
• Intellectual Property Focus: Ensuring healthy patent and intellectual property pipelines will be a key responsibility, appealing to those who value the protection and advancement of scientific discoveries.
• Commitment to Safety and Sustainability: Working within Unilever's high standards for health, safety, and sustainability offers a chance to contribute to responsible innovation and a positive global impact.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path

While the advantages are clear, a successful application and tenure in this role will hinge on a few key areas:

• Scientific and Technical Depth: A strong foundation, evidenced by a PhD in chemical, mathematical, or physical science/engineering, is essential. The ability to apply your expertise to critical innovation projects is paramount.
• Proven Track Record in Automation and Digital: Demonstrable experience in developing and applying automation, robotics, and digital approaches to R&D outputs, particularly in formulated products, will be crucial.
• Strategic Project Management: The capacity to manage complex, global research projects to successful conclusions is a core requirement.
• Partnership and Collaboration Expertise: With over 5 years of experience in developing partnerships, managing collaborations, and securing external funding, you'll be well-equipped to excel in this area.
• Exceptional Communication and Stakeholder Management: The ability to navigate multiple interfaces, influence stakeholders, and communicate progress effectively to senior leadership is vital for driving strategic initiatives.
• Budgetary Acumen: Experience in managing budgets for capital expenditure, open innovation, and operational costs will be necessary for successful program delivery.
• Adaptability and Strategic Thinking: The landscape of digital and automation is constantly evolving. Candidates must be adaptable and capable of making timely changes to align with R&D strategy and influence business direction.
• FMCG Industry Experience (Desirable): While not mandatory, experience within the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry would be a significant advantage, providing valuable context for the specific challenges and opportunities within this sector.

This role represents a significant opportunity for a scientifically driven leader to make a lasting impact on product innovation. By strategically leveraging digital and automation technologies, you will not only drive business growth but also contribute to shaping the future of research and development within a globally recognized organization.