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 orienta