We are seeking an entrepreneurial and commercially driven Category Head - Oleochemicals & Lubricants to build and scale our Oleochemicals and Lubricants business globally. The role will be responsible for category growth, strategic sourcing, supplier partnerships, customer acquisition, revenue growth, and P&L management.
The ideal candidate should possess deep industry expertise in oleochemicals, lubricant additives, base oils, specialty lubricants, and industrial chemical markets, with a proven track record of driving business growth and managing strategic customer relationships.
Key Responsibilities
Business Growth & Strategy
- Develop and execute category growth strategy for Oleochemicals and Lubricants.
- Drive revenue, profitability, and market expansion across domestic and international markets.
- Identify high-growth products, market opportunities, and emerging industry trends.
Category & Portfolio Management
- Build and expand the product portfolio across oleochemicals and lubricant ingredients.
- Identify new principals, manufacturers, and supplier partnerships globally.
- Manage product lifecycle, pricing strategy, positioning, and inventory planning.
Business Development & Customer Acquisition
- Develop relationships with key customers across lubricant manufacturers, industrial users, metalworking fluid companies, grease manufacturers, and specialty chemical formulators.
- Lead strategic customer discussions, negotiations, and commercial agreements.
- Drive new business acquisition and key account growth.
Supply Chain & Sourcing
- Establish strong partnerships with domestic and international manufacturers.
- Ensure reliable sourcing, cost optimization, and supply continuity.
- Collaborate with procurement and operations teams to improve margins and service levels.
Leadership & P&L Ownership
- Own category P&L, budgeting, forecasting, and profitability targets.
- Build and mentor a high-performing commercial team.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including sourcing, operations, quality, regulatory, and finance.
Preferred Product Experience
Oleochemicals
- Fatty Acids
- Fatty Alcohols
- Esters
- Glycerine
- Distilled Fatty Acids
- Oleic Acid
- Stearic Acid
- Methyl Esters
- Surfactant Intermediates
Lubricants & Additives
- Base Oils (Group I, II, III)
- Synthetic Base Stocks
- Ester-Based Lubricants
- Industrial Lubricants
- Metalworking Fluids
- Greases
- Antioxidants
- Corrosion Inhibitors
- Viscosity Modifiers
- Anti-wear Additives
- Performance Additives
Preferred Background
- 10+ years of experience in Oleochemicals, Lubricants, Specialty Chemicals, or Industrial Chemicals.
- Strong commercial experience in category management, business development, sourcing, and product management.
- Demonstrated experience handling strategic supplier and customer relationships.
- Proven track record of revenue generation and P&L ownership.
- Strong understanding of global supply chains and chemical distribution markets.
- Excellent negotiation, stakeholder management, and leadership skills.
Success Metrics
- Revenue Growth
- Gross Margin Expansion
- New Customer Acquisition
- Strategic Supplier Partnerships
- Portfolio Expansion
- Market Share Growth
- Category Profitability
- Team Development