Innovation Project Manager

Ahlstrom R&D organization is a combination of resources sitting in the business (c. FTE in 12 Business Units / 3 Divisions) and a centralized R&D team, called Group Innovation, consisting of a team of 30 highly skilled R&D people located in our global R&D center in France. The mission of Group Innovation is to support Ahlstrom's mission to expand the role of fiber-based solutions for a sustainable everyday life by: Making sure that R&D portfolios across the company are aligned with the company objectives, Supporting the innovation agenda of the BU/Divisions by providing expertise in specific fields, Strengthening and driving the group R&D portfolio, consisting of group-wide strategic projects, Providing thought leadership to the businesses, Ensuring strong cross-business fertilization across the company. We are looking for an Innovation Project Manager to join our Group Innovation team. As a new role in the organization, you will play a critical role in supporting the ongoing transformation journey across the entire Ahlstrom R&D community, both in Group Innovation and in the BUs. This position, reporting to the VP Group Innovation, is preferably located in our Research Center in Pont-Evêque, France (Lyon area). Other possible locations are Turin or Amsterdam. Your key responsibilities will include: Manage the entire project lifecycle from initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and control to successful closure. Develop and maintain detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets, ensuring alignment with client requirements and company objectives. Lead and manage cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration and clear communication between internal departments and external vendors. Proactively identify and mitigate potential risks, develop contingency plans, and implement corrective actions as needed. Monitor project progress, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and provide regular status reports to stakeholders. Manage project budgets and ensure adherence to financial constraints. Conduct project reviews and identify opportunities for improvement in processes and methodologies. Maintain strong customer relationships, proactively manage expectations, and ensure successful project delivery. Prepare and deliver clear and concise project documentation, including project charters, risk assessments, and status updates. Stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices in project management methodologies. Work in close collaboration with business, operations, procurement, and other functions. We are looking for a self-driven and proactive individual with an innovation and project management background in a global matrix environment. More specifically: Min 5 years significant experience in project management, preferably within the industrial B2B sector. Proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget. You therefore need to have: Master or Bachelor in sciences or similar and/or project management. Strong understanding of project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall). Proficient in project management software. Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills. Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and work independently while remaining a team player. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and demanding environment. Experience working with technical teams and translating technical concepts into actionable plans (a plus). Ability to manage informal teams and networks. Ability to influence others and drive change, which may involve managing complex situations and difficult conversations. Solid leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to coach and train. Fluent in English; French is a plus. If you feel like taking up the challenge, please submit your application by August 5th Please note that if you are NOT a passport holder of the country for the vacancy, you might need a work permit. J-18808-Ljbffr

Location: it, IT

Posted Date: 2/23/2025