Research & Development Manager – Printing Ink at SOLEVO Group
SOLEVO is a leading distributor of chemicals and inputs for specific industrial and agricultural segments in Africa. SOLEVO assists African farmers and Industries succeed by providing them with a full range of fertilizers, seeds, crop protection products and industrial chemicals they need with a guaranteed quality and good value. With over 75 years at the frontier of economic growth and transformation across Africa, we deliver critical raw materials and expertise to the continentâs high GDP-contributing life sciences and industrials sectors.Job Description
What are we looking for?
We are looking for an experienced and visionary Research & Development Manager (Printing Ink) to lead the innovation, formulation, and process development efforts for our printing ink division.
You will spearhead new product development, technical support, and process optimization initiatives, ensuring we meet evolving customer demands with superior technical performance and efficiency.
What do we expect from the candidate?
You will join our Printing Ink business unit, playing a critical leadership role in formulation design, lab management, and technical service.
Your ability to work across flexographic and gravure printing platforms and to deliver high-performance, cost-effective ink systems will be key to your success. You will also oversee laboratory operations, ensuring quality control and regulatory compliance while collaborating with production, commercial, and customer service teams.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and optimize ink formulations for flexo and gravure printing applications, focusing on both water- and solvent-based technologies.
Lead new product development projects, from concept through commercialization.
Ensure color matching, drying behavior, adhesion, and print performance through rigorous lab testing.
Continuously improve manufacturing processes for quality consistency, cost reduction, and efficiency gains.
Provide technical service and troubleshooting during customer trials and post-sale support.
Supervise lab operations, including raw material testing, quality assurance, and safety standards.
Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, production, and supply chain teams to align R&D efforts with market needs.
Requirements
Must-Have:
Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related fields.
15+ years of hands-on experience in printing ink formulation and technical service, preferably in packaging applications.
Deep technical knowledge of resins, pigments, solvents, additives, and formulation strategies.
In-depth understanding of printing processes (flexographic, gravure) and press-side application.
Nice-to-Have:
Experience in sustainable formulation trends, including low-VOC and bio-based inks.
Understanding of best manufacturing practices, regulatory compliance, and environmental standards.
Familiarity with regional and global ink markets and customer expectations.
If you are…
A problem solver with strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
A collaborative leader who can communicate technical concepts to both R&D teams and non-technical stakeholders.
Passionate about innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.
Able to manage priorities in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
