Group Leader for Retread Material and Process Technology (Replacement during Maternity Leave)

Shape the Future of Rubber Valley with Us!

We are looking for a leader who will move us forward, challenge the status quo and help shape the global future of R&D in retread materials and processes. Become part of our Rubber Valley leadership team in Púchov, Slovakia.

Your mission:

• Lead the development and continuous improvement of retread materials and processes, in line with global standards and market expectations.
• Drive a culture of innovation, collaboration and accountability within a high-performing multidisciplinary team.
• Set strategic direction for the group, ensuring strong alignment with both technical goals and broader business objectives.
• Oversee the development and industrialization of retread materials, ensuring high performance and cost-efficiency.
• Foster strong collaboration across internal MDI/PD departments, global Retread Product Development, retread manufacturing sites, customer service, and technical support teams.
• Take the lead on complex, high impact projects at both local and global levels, with full ownership from concept to implementation.
• Act as an ambassador toward internal and external parties (e.g., retread tire plants, customers, universities).

• University background in a technology field is preferred, we value mindset over titles.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, prior leadership experience is considered an asset.
• Proven experience managing complex projects, driving results and developing people.
• Fluent in English.
• Passion about innovation and continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of rubber compounding, raw materials, and lab testing methods is a plus.
• Understanding of key production processes (mixing, calendaring, extrusion, vulcanization) and their influencing parameters is an advantage.

• An exciting leadership role with real impact on development of our tires and global R&D
• The freedom to take initiative, propose bold ideas, and bring them to life.
• A passionate and capable team committed to delivering innovation and excellence.
• Opportunity to be part of a team that wants to lead and shape the future of global R&D.
• Modern, flexible work environment.
• Personalized career growth - Regular and continuous training.

Starting salary from: CG11

Ready to drive with Continental? Take the first step and fill in the online application.

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2024, Continental generated sales of €39.7 billion and currently employs around 190,000 people in 55 countries and markets.

With its premium portfolio in the car, truck, bus, two-wheel and specialty tire segment, the Tires group sector stands for innovative solutions in tire technology. Intelligent products and services related to tires and the promotion of sustainability complete the product portfolio. For specialist dealers and fleet management, Tires offers digital tire monitoring and tire management systems, in addition to other services, with the aim of keeping fleets mobile and increasing their efficiency. With its tires, Continental makes a significant contribution to safe, efficient and environmentally friendly mobility.