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Siphesihle Menemene

@siphesihlemenemene

Polymer lab professional skilled in data analysis, quality, and R&D - passionate about innovation and process improvement.

South Africa
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What I'm looking for

I seek a role leading R&D or laboratory operations where I can apply polymer expertise, drive quality improvements, mentor teams, and contribute to safety-focused, innovation-driven projects.

I am a highly dedicated and results-driven professional with over 8 years of experience in polymer technology, quality management, and laboratory operations. I currently serve as the Team Leader of the Technology Development (TD) Laboratory, where I oversee the testing, evaluation, and approval of new materials, as well as provide technical support to internal and external customers.

My academic background includes a BTech in Polymer Technology and an Advanced Diploma in Operations Management (cum laude), for which I was recognized as a top achiever. I am also an advisory board member at Nelson Mandela University, contributing industry insights to academic programs.

Over the years, I have developed expertise in quality assurance, research and development, root cause analysis, and supplier development, as well as in the use of laboratory equipment such as FTIR, STA, Karl Fischer, extruders, tensometers, and cell aging ovens.

I am passionate about continuous improvement, safety, and compliance, holding several certifications including SHE Representative, Fire Marshal, and First Aid.

Looking forward, I am interested in opportunities in quality, R&D, or compounding within the polymer, rubber, or automotive industries — especially roles where I can contribute to innovation, problem-solving, and operational excellence.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

AC
Current

Technology Development Laboratory Team Leader

Aberdare Cables

Jan 2021 - Present (4 years 9 months)

Lead the R&D and QA laboratory team, improving operational efficiency and delivering material evaluations and testing that supported cost-saving initiatives and maintained ISO-compliant quality standards.

AC

Management Trainee

Aberdare Cables

Feb 2017 - Dec 2020 (3 years 10 months)

Supported material development and testing through lab compounding and production trials, troubleshooting customer complaints and contributing to R&D projects while managing lab equipment and budgets.

AC

In-Service Trainee

Aberdare Cables

Jan 2016 - Dec 2016 (11 months)

Assisted R&D and production trials, performed standard-compliant sample testing, and supported new material evaluations and customer complaint investigations.

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

PA

Production Management Institute of South Africa

Advanced Diploma in Operations Management, Operations Management

2023 - 2023

Grade: Cum Laude

Completed an Advanced Diploma in Operations Management with cum laude distinction in 2023.

Tshwane University of Technology logoTT

Tshwane University of Technology

Bachelor of Technology, Polymer Technology

2017 - 2018

Completed a BTech in Polymer Technology between 2017 and 2018, focusing on polymer materials and laboratory practice.

Nelson Mandela University logoNU

Nelson Mandela University

National Diploma, Polymer Technology

2014 - 2017

Completed a National Diploma in Polymer Technology from 2014 to 2017 with coursework and practical training in polymer testing and compounding.

Tech stack

Software and tools used professionally

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Siphesihle Menemene - Technology Development Laboratory Team Leader - Aberdare Cables | Himalayas