Job Description

Operations Director – Global Specialty Chemicals

📍 New Hampshire, USA | 🌍 International scope (France)

💲 c. $215,000 + Bonus + Benefits

Handley James Chemical are proud to be partnering with a world-leading specialty chemical manufacturer , operating across 50+ sites worldwide with over 10,000 employees . Renowned for their commitment to sustainability, people-first culture, and true customer partnerships , this is an exceptional business that continues to attract the best talent across the globe.

We are seeking an experienced Operations Director to take on a pivotal leadership role with direct responsibility for the New Hampshire plant and indirect oversight of a facility in Northern France . This role places strong emphasis on Environmental, Health & Safety (EH&S), customer satisfaction, and operational excellence , driving performance through empowered, engaged, and accountable teams.

What you’ll do:

Lead & Inspire

• Champion EH&S initiatives ensuring a safe, compliant, and sustainable workplace.
• Drive a culture of accountability, responsiveness, and continuous improvement.
• Develop high-performing, motivated teams and future leaders.

Deliver Operational Excellence

• Lead all aspects of plant operations – production, maintenance, quality, supply chain, and safety.
• Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma practices.
• Enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and increase throughput while maintaining world-class standards.

Drive Growth & Strategy

• Manage budgets, capital projects, and resources with a sharp financial focus.
• Shape and execute site strategies in line with BU and corporate objectives.
• Strengthen partnerships with customers, stakeholders, and global colleagues.

International Collaboration

• Ensure EH&S and customer satisfaction standards are upheld at the France site.
• Align financial and operational performance with local leadership.
• Foster cross-cultural collaboration, shared initiatives, and talent development across regions.

What we’re looking for:

• Degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related (Master’s preferred).
• 10+ years’ progressive leadership in manufacturing operations (chemical/filtration preferred).
• Strong track record of P&L, capex, and financial performance management .
• Proven expertise in EH&S, Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement .
• Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to travel internationally as required.

Why join?

• Competitive salary of c. $215,000 + bonus + benefits + relocation package (if necessary)
• Opportunity to lead in a global business with a sustainability-driven vision
• High-impact role with both local and international scope
• A chance to shape the culture, growth, and performance of two key sites

Interested? Please contact Stuart Tomkinson or click the link below to apply.

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