Senior Director, Research & Development - Industrial Fluids & Lubricants

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We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

***Note: This position is based in our Sharonville, OH headquarters***

POSITION SUMMARY

The Senior Director of Research & Development (R&D) is a strategic leadership role responsible for driving innovation, product development, technology advancement, and performance testing within the industrials market supporting lubricants, surface finishing, metal-working fluids, and similar applications. Reporting directly to the Chief Technical Officer (CTO), this position oversees all aspects of R&D including formulation, process optimization, commercialization, and performance testing of existing products, new products, and emerging technologies.

The Senior Director will lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and market needs. This role requires a deep understanding of chemistry, chemical processing, regulatory compliance, sustainability initiatives, and emerging trends in the chemical industry. The individual will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—such as operations, procurement, quality, and marketing—to translate research into commercially viable solutions that deliver competitive advantages.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Innovation

• Develop and execute the R&D and Applications strategy aligned with corporate vision and the strategic technology roadmap.
• Identify emerging technologies, trends, market opportunities, and acquisition targets to guide long-term innovation.
• Lead multi-year product and technology pipelines, ensuring a balance of incremental improvement and breakthrough innovation.
• Serve on the CEO’s Senior Leadership Team.

Research & Development Management

• Oversee the full lifecycle of product development—from concept and feasibility to scale-up, commercialization, and post-launch optimization.
• Ensure all R&D activities meet quality, safety, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Implement strong project management, documentation, and stage-gate processes.
• Drive continuous improvement in laboratory capabilities, testing methodologies, and technology platforms.

Applications & Technical Service Leadership

• Lead Applications and Technical Service teams in delivering customer-centered support, product adoption, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
• Strengthen relationships with strategic customers by providing technical expertise and on-site support.
• Translate customer requirements into product specifications and development opportunities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with Portfolio, Operations, Sales, Marketing, Quality, and EH&S to ensure we maintain a balanced portfolio of projects with clear deliverables.
• Support commercial teams by providing technical training, product performance data, and differentiation insights.
• Collaborate with Procurement and Operations regarding raw materials, formulations, and manufacturability.

People Leadership

• Lead a high-performing team of scientists, chemists, engineers, and technical specialists; recruit, coach, and develop top technical talent.
• Foster a culture of innovation, safety, accountability, and scientific excellence.
• Develop succession planning and capability growth within the department.
• Guide and assist in shaping career advancement programs on the non-managerial track.

Operational & Financial Management

• Manage R&D and Applications budgets, including capital planning for labs, testing equipment, and pilot capabilities.
• Prioritize project portfolios based on business value, customer needs, and resource availability.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, environmental, and compliance policies.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or M.S.) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in chemicals R&D, including leadership roles.
• Proven track record of successful product development and commercialization.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory requirements.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills.
• Domestic & International Travel up to 30%

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DuBois provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, service in the military, veteran status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and/or local law and/or regulation.