About this role
The role requires a deep understanding of the global elastomer industry, polymer chemistry, mechanochemistry, mechanical, electrical, software and process engineering at degree level together with leadership, presentation, reporting and communication skills that will typically be obtained after more than 25 years in Research, Development and Industry spanning both theoretical practical roles. International travel will be required. Proficiency in English and Dutch is a requirement. German and French are desirable. Gradient Compounds Netherlands BV (GCN) is seeking a candidate for the role of Technical Director for its operations in the Netherlands. Based in Hilversum, GCN is a service company that applies a novel and proprietary technology enabling the decrosslinking of crosslinked elastomers. In operation, GCN processes crosslinked rubber materials and returns them in a form that could be reused to replace virgin masterbatch materials without changing the product specification. Simply put, GCN enables the closed loop recycling of crosslinked elastomeric (rubber) materials. Having carried out extended trials to prove the technology using a wide range of industrial materials, GCN is poised to commercialise its operations. Reporting to the CEO, the Candidate will be responsible for the development of the underlying technology, development of the equipment used in production, development of the production process, development of new installations, managing manufacturing operations (including quality control and continuous improvement) and providing support to the Business Development Process. The role requires a deep understanding of the global elastomer industry, polymer chemistry, mechanochemistry, mechanical, electrical, software and process engineering at degree level together with leadership, presentation, reporting and communication skills that will typically be obtained after more than 25 years in Research, Development and Industry spanning both theoretical practical roles. International travel will be required. Proficiency in English and Dutch is a requirement. German and French are desirable. This challenging opportunity comes with a significant remuneration package for an outstanding candidate. GCN is an equal opportunity employer. Expressions of interest, together with a current CV, can be sent to Gradient Compounds Netherlands BV. Applications close on 31st July 2026 at 12.00 (noon) CET unless otherwise indicated