Director of Operations – Specialty Chemicals

About the role

The Director of Operations leads all operational, manufacturing, technical and engineering functions within a specialty chemical manufacturing environment that serves the Oil & Gas industry. This senior leader drives operational excellence, process optimisation and continuous improvement to ensure safe, efficient and cost‑effective production.

Key responsibilities

• Lead Manufacturing, Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, Reliability, Quality and Technical Support functions.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, KPIs and continuous‑improvement initiatives aligned with business objectives.
• Drive manufacturing excellence, process optimisation, asset reliability and operational efficiency across production facilities.
• Oversee production planning, plant performance, maintenance execution and operational risk management.
• Ensure compliance with HSE, process‑safety, environmental and quality standards.
• Lead plant upgrades, expansion projects and technical improvement initiatives.
• Support product development and operational scalability to meet customer and market requirements.
• Manage operational budgets, cost‑optimisation initiatives and overall business performance.
• Develop and lead high‑performing teams while fostering a culture of accountability, innovation and continuous improvement.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical Engineering preferred); MBA/EMBA is an advantage.
• Minimum 15 + years of experience in chemical manufacturing, petrochemical, oil & gas or industrial operations.
• Proven leadership experience managing large operational teams and complex industrial facilities.
• Strong understanding of specialty chemicals manufacturing, process safety, asset integrity and operational excellence.
• Experience managing operational KPIs, budgets and performance‑improvement programmes.
• Relevant certifications in reliability, asset management, process safety or project management are preferred.

Required skills

• Reliability engineering
• Asset management
• Process safety management
• Project management
• Manufacturing operations
• Maintenance management
• Process improvement