Meet Henry, a Divisional Process Chemist at Kingspan

Location: Based in Pembridge, UK / International site visits

Degree: Chemistry MSc

University attended: Loughborough University

What does your role in Kingspan involve?

As a member of the Divisional Technical Processing team for Kingspan Insulation I develop chemical processes that enhance product technical performance, improve quality, and reduce manufacturing costs. The projects I work on range in scope from small continuous improvement initiatives to large scale capital projects, such as the commissioning of new production lines around the world.

What is the most interesting project you have been involved in since you joined?

Since I joined the company, I have been involved in the significant refinement of one of our insulation formulations. From small scale lab testing to trialling on multiple large production lines it has been a very engaging process, with many interesting challenges along the way.

What prompted you to apply to Kingspan?

I was drawn to Kingspan because of its commitment to sustainability and its dedication to supporting new graduates in their development. I also liked the idea of my work having a real, tangible output. I can walk around the production lines and see products that I improved being made on a large scale. It gives me that ‘I made that’ feeling, which is really motivating and rewarding.

What was your experience of the Kingspan graduate recruitment process?

Initially, I had an online interview with the person who is now my manager. The conversation included some technical questions, an overview of the job responsibilities, and a chance for us to get to know each other. This was followed by an on-site interview and a tour of the production lines and labs at our site in Pembridge. The entire process was genuinely enjoyable and gave me the impression that my manager was focused on making sure the role was the right fit for me—not just assessing whether I was right for the company.

Have you any tips for someone else thinking of applying to Kingspan?

It is hard to give specific advice as everyone will have their own wants and needs. But in general, if you have found something about Kingspan that resonates with you, then just go for it. Trust me you are more capable than you know, and Kingspan’s Yours to Shape program can provide you with the skills and confidence to build a lasting career.

Looking back, what qualities and behaviours do you think you displayed during the recruitment process which made you a good fit for Kingspan?

Looking back, I showed curiosity and a willingness to learn. Also, when I was asked technical questions about production line processing during my interviews, I outlined my assumptions, potential solutions and the trade-offs related to each of them. This structure was highly effective at winning over my interviewer, as it showed I could be relied upon to solve complex problems and helped me handle unexpected questions that I didn’t have a clear answer for.