Company Overview

　　Wherever you work and whatever role you fill, when you represent the Bridgestone name you know that you are a valued teammate who is part of our larger mission to “Serve Society with Superior Quality.” We start by offering each teammate more than just a salary. We provide formal training, competitive performance incentives, paid vacation and holidays, healthcare packages for full-time and part-time employees, and a 401k plan to help build your future.

　　We believe people can only provide superior service and quality to others when they are allowed to bring their whole selves to work and know they are supported. We believe in championing all perspectives, individuals and teams because we understand the importance of seeing the world and our business through many different lenses. We are building a team as diverse as the world we serve. So, show us what you’re made of. Show us the smart stuff, the tough stuff, the bold, beautiful and brave stuff. Because who you are is what we need.

　　Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee and is the U.S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation headquartered in Japan. Bridgestone Americas and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market a wide range of Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand products to address the needs of a broad range of customers and industries.

　　Job Category

　　Engineering & Science

　　Position Summary

　　The Advanced Polymer Synthesis manager position reports to the Senior Manager of Advanced Polymer Science within the Core Polymer Science division of Bridgestone Americas located at the Americas Technology Center in Akron, OH. This role leads a team of R&D scientists in a fast-paced and collaborative environment that is focused on design and development of new polymer technologies used to enhance the performance of our tire products. It is an experienced professional position that applies practical knowledge obtained through advanced education and work experience. The manager must be able to lead, mentor, and coordinate both junior scientists and experienced professionals who exercise latitude and independence in assignments. The ability to manage cross-functional interactions between R&D, manufacturing, and the tire business, as well as to exhibit strong interpersonal, communication, and influencing skills are critical for success.

　　Responsibilities

　　Responsibilities

　　Lead a team of 6 R&D PhD synthetic chemists and 2 college co-ops in the innovation and development of new polymer concepts and products.

　　Develop an integrated vision for next generation polymers aligned with future needs of polymer manufacturing and tire business.

　　Promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement activities.

　　Engage with direct reports on their career development via continuous feedback, performance reviews, and implementation of individual development plans.

　　Identify and execute short-, mid-, and long-term polymer development projects in support of both regional and global targets. Set KPIs based on company objectives. Manage associated operational and capital budgets.

　　Lead team on projects from inception through demonstration by utilizing a stage-gate process.

　　Build and maintain relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including tire and polymer product development teams, through strong communication and influence. Strengthen collaborations with R&D teams locally and globally.

　　Make recommendations concerning acquisition and use of new technological equipment and materials.

　　Participate in intellectual property evaluations and development of intellectual property strategy.

　　Minimum Qualifications

　　Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to engage peer managers and leadership in polymer strategy and planning discussions.

　　Prior experience effectively leading cross functional teams and/or managing multidisciplinary projects.

　　Demonstrated ability for written and verbal communication of both technical and high-level material.

　　Strong problem-solving, time-management, and prioritization skills.

　　Proven track record in the development of new polymers, material, or technology.

　　Preferred Qualifications

　　Experience in polymer development.Minimum Qualifications

　　Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or related technical field: 8+ years of experience including 3-5 years leadership experience. Or Master’s degree in Chemistry or related technical field: 6+ years of experience including 2-4 years leadership experience. Or PhD degree in Chemistry or related technical field: 4+ years of experience including 1-3 years leadership experience.Bridgestone is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. It is our policy to consider for employment all individuals regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

　　Employment Eligibility

　　If hired, a Form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification must be completed at the start of employment. Temporary work authorization or the need for sponsorship may disqualify you from employment.