R&D Corporate Research Lab Team Manager

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advance composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs and additive manufactured parts. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices and R&T centers around the globe. Become a part of the “strength within.”

Hexcel is currently seeking a R&D Corporate Research Lab (CRL) Team Manager for our Duxford, UK location.

The selected individual will be responsible for but not limited to the following obligations:

Lead, coach, and develop a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians, ensuring engagement, performance, and skills growth.

Conduct regular 1:1s, performance reviews, succession planning to support long‑term capability needs, and career planning in line with the R&D dual career path.

Foster, support and empower a positive HSE culture. Oversee planning and execution of NTI projects, ensuring alignment to timelines, stage‑gate requirements, and strategic business priorities.

Ensure project teams manage risks, resource requirements, and cross‑functional inputs effectively.

Support selection and implementation of standardized project management tools and practices as R&D evolves common processes.

Oversee the R&D capital expenditure process, ensuring investments are aligned with product development goals.

Maintain interfaces with key functions and collaborate with other CRL R&D managers, directors, and fellows to meet strategic objectives.

Facilitate effective communication during organizational changes, helping employees understand evolving responsibilities.

Ensure that development activities follow internal procedures, safety requirements, and documentation standards.

Contribute to audits, customer reviews, and regulatory assessments where required.

Qualifications:

Experience with project management tools and metrics.

Familiarity with stage‑gate NTI processes and agile development methodology.

Proven leadership experience within an industrial R&D technology environment.

Demonstrated ability to manage complex, cross‑functional technology projects.

Excellent communication skills.

Experience in coaching and developing technical staff at differing career stages.

Background in aerospace/industrial composites or advanced materials.

Experience supporting reorganizations or operating in evolving organizational structures.

Candidates must be eligible to work in the country where the position is based. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry.