Head of Science & Innovation

About the role

The Head of Science & Innovation provides strategic direction and drives growth for the global Pest and Hygiene & Wellbeing science teams. The role combines technical brilliance, innovation leadership and alignment of Global Centres of Excellence with the overall group strategy.

Key responsibilities

• Lead early‑stage innovation in Pest Control and Hygiene & Wellbeing, taking ideas from concept to proof of concept.
• Build and maintain relationships with external innovation partners, industry bodies and academia.
• Provide technical field support for complex infestations and contribute technical insight to key account bids and tenders.
• Identify portfolio gaps, define new product requirements and collaborate with Category Marketing, Pest Innovation and Chemical PD teams.
• Run innovation sessions, manage the innovation funnel and present outcomes to the Technical Leadership Team and category boards.
• Implement project‑management processes within the Science team and support marketing with claim development and product deployment.
• Represent Rentokil at conferences and exhibitions, promoting the brand externally.

Required profile

• Minimum good honours degree in a scientific discipline or related field.
• Proven experience leading scientific or innovation functions in a global environment.
• Strong stakeholder management and ability to influence internal and external partners.
• Excellent communication skills and experience presenting to senior leadership.

Required skills

• Project management