Finish Development Manager

This individual is responsible for leading the development of new finishes and finish techniques identified by the trend and innovation team as well as maintenance of current finish standards.  Other responsibilities will include supporting Continuous Improvement opportunities identified within operations in alignment with projects and project teams focused on the strategic alignment of the product offering, operational footprint, and supply chain.  In this role, the candidate will provide technical expertise and leadership to implement new finish options, techniques and aligning common colors across multiple facilities. This individual will network with finish material suppliers, finish equipment suppliers, MLLC Product and Design team as well as other facilities' Finishing Specialists to identify solutions and best practices for our finishing operations.  This individual will utilize the MaterBrand Way tools to meet department deliverables.

This is a remote based position with preferred proximity to one of our following facility locations: Jasper IN, Ferdinand IN, Goshen IN, Arthur IL, Kinston NC, Grants Pass OR, Waterloo IA, Sioux Falls SD, Winnipeg CA, Liberty NC.

Accountabilities

• Produce finishes and finish processes that meet the market need by filling a gap in the MLLC portfolio (Universal Masters), while allowing expansion to other manufacturing facilities within the network.
• Perform basic technical development for optimizing paint & stain formulations including development of test batches for lab conversion, analysis of materials, and R&D.  All formulas and requirements will align through manufacturing and design.
• Work with or direct team members to assist with manufacturing teams of sprayers, primer/sealer sanding, touch-up/finish inspection and equipment maintenance in areas that pertain to "standards" alignment and regular production of goods to those standards.
• Work with our pre-finish & finish suppliers to determine the base solvent line up, tint package and process steps for developing new products & common color alignment.
• Ensures project execution for plant readiness facilitating on-time project launches/introductions
• Support and contribute to cross-functional areas of the business (Sourcing, Operations, etc.) to build the necessary teams to execute project goals
• Implement effective test plans as required for successful project implementation
• Maintain effective project tracking, meeting minutes, action items, and project updates
• Utilize Product analytics to determine necessary product changes including Life Cycle Management and the associated impacts to the business
• Ability to travel both domestic and international; estimated travel for position is 25-50%
• Consistently demonstrates traits of the MasterBrand Way
• Perform other duties as may be assigned at management's discretion

• Technical knowledge of various coatings and processes in a commercial setting
• Understanding of raw materials properties, wood and wet finishes preferred
• Ability to manage projects while also providing hands-on, shop floor solutions and results
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Industrial finishing experience (wood finish preferred) in a volume production facility
• Chemical / Coatings background (wood finish preferred)
• Mechanical knowledge of pumps, fluid handling systems, etc. preferred

Characteristics & Attributes

• Exceptional Leadership skills
• Ability to listen, gain alignment, and communicate effectively with team, customers, and key stakeholders
• Takes initiative to identify key issues, develop a project plan, and execute effectively
• Strong team orientation with the ability to motivate and enable others to succeed
• Ability to work effectively across all levels of the organization
• Skilled at handling multiple projects with tight timelines in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's level degree in Engineering or other related field required
• 10+ years relevant experience is strongly preferred
• Demonstrated project management experience

For nearly 70 years, MasterBrand has been shaping the places where people come together, enriching lives and creating meaningful memories for our customers. That, combined with our stylish products, expansive dealer and retail network, and dedicated associates, has helped make us the number one North American residential cabinet business. Our unique culture of continuous improvement is based on trusting the tools, empowering the team and moving forward, and is kept alive by our more than 14,000 associates across 20 plus manufacturing facility and offices. Visit www.masterbrand.com to learn more and join us in building great experiences together!

Equal Employment Opportunity

MasterBrand Cabinets LLC is an equal opportunity employer. MasterBrand Cabinets LLC's policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability/handicap status, marital status, military status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. MasterBrand Cabinets LLC also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasterBrand Cabinets LLC's policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

Reasonable Accommodations

MasterBrand Cabinets LLC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you have a disability and wish to discuss potential accommodations related to applying for employment, please contact us at [email protected].

*Actual pay will vary based on qualifications and other factors