Are you passionate about Research & Development and looking to shape the future of an industry leader?
Outokumpu is seeking a dynamic and ambitious R&D Manager for the Corrosion team. As part of the R&D management team you will actively contribute to the strategy of the R&D organization and ensure that the strategy is effectively translated to your team, driving high performance and organizational efficiency. You will lead a global team in Avesta, Sweden and Krefeld, Germany consisting of 10 employees.
Outokumpu is accelerating the green transition as the global leader in sustainable stainless steel. Our business is based on the circular economy: our products are made from 95% recycled materials, which we then turn into fully recyclable stainless steel. This steel is utilized in various applications across society, including infrastructure, mobility, and household appliances. We are committed to 1.5°C target to mitigate climate change, and with up to 75% lower carbon footprint than the industry average, we support our customers to reduce their emissions. Together, we are working towards a world that lasts forever. Outokumpu Corporation employs approximately 8,500 professionals in close to 30 countries, with headquarters in Helsinki, Finland and shares listed in Nasdaq Helsinki. Read more:
Your impact:
* Strategic Planning & Alignment: Actively shape the R&D organization’s strategy and drive its implementation by developing and executing a comprehensive R&D plan for the corrosion area.
* Team Leadership: Lead and develop the corrosion R&D team by fostering a collaborative, innovative work environment and managing both performance and professional growth.
* Customer- and Market-Oriented Innovation: Initiate customer- and market-focused product development by staying up to date with industry trends and identifying growth opportunities.
* Project Execution & Quality: Oversee the execution of R&D projects within the corrosion department, ensuring process integrity, quality, and effectiveness.
* Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with internal stakeholders such as Sales, Marketing, and Production to align and integrate R&D activities with business objectives.
* External Partnerships: Build and maintain strong relationships with external partners, including customers, universities, and research institutions.
* Budget Management: Manage the R&D corrosion budget, ensuring effective resource allocation and cost control.
What you bring:
* Master’s degree or PhD in Materials Science, Engineering, or a related technical field
* Proven leadership experience in an international, technical environment
* Strong knowledge in materials science, preferably in corrosion of stainless steel
* Customer focus and experience in developing customized technical solutions
* Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, proactive working style
* Fluent in English; additional language skills are a plus
What success looks like:
* A clear corrosion R&D roadmap is in place and aligned with Outokumpu’s strategic goals.
* Your team is motivated, high-performing, and recognized internally for its expertise.
* Collaboration with internal stakeholders and external partners is seamless and value-adding.
* New or improved corrosion-resistant solutions are successfully brought to market.
* The corrosion R&D function operates efficiently, on time, and within budget.
What we offer:
* A strategic and impactful role within a global company
* The opportunity to contribute to sustainable stainless steel innovation
* A dynamic and innovation-driven work environment with flat hierarchies
* Individual development and training opportunities
* Competitive compensation and flexible working models
Why join us?
At Outokumpu, you're not just taking on a job — you're joining a purpose-driven company shaping a more sustainable future through innovation in stainless steel. In this role, you'll drive impactful projects, grow within a collaborative R&D community, and help create lasting solutions. We foster a culture of trust, learning, and flexibility to help you thrive and make a real difference.
Location: You will be based in Krefeld, Germany, or Avesta, Sweden with occasional travel to other company locations.
Passionate about innovation and making a real impact?
Then we want to hear from you!
Submit your application by 31 th, of July 2025.
For questions about your application, please contact Franziska Luxem,
Talent Acquisition Partner by e-mail at franziska.luxem@outokumpu.com.
Our people drive our innovation
At Outokumpu, people and their expertise are at the core of the business to produce stainless steel in a safe and sustainable way. They contribute to our success by operating the machinery, systems and processes, and also by striving for continuous improvements and innovation.
Outokumpu is also committed to full equality in compensation and is the first company in the stainless steel industry to receive the Fair Pay Workplace certification.