Technical & Business Manager – Polyurethane Foam Solutions (North America)

Alpha Global Search LLC; United States; On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A global chemical manufacturer is seeking a Technical & Business Manager – Polyurethane Solutions. This role offers the opportunity to lead technical and commercial activities in polyurethane across North America, emphasizing customer engagement, technical support, and strategic business development. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in a related field and over 10 years of experience in polyurethane technologies. Responsibilities include collaborating with teams to drive business growth and maintain customer relationships.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in polyurethane materials, systems, or foam technologies.
• Experience providing technical service or application development support to manufacturing customers.
• Exposure to commercial, sales, or business development activities.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical and commercial activities for a polyurethane product portfolio.
• Support development and execution of regional business strategy.
• Provide technical expertise and application support to customers.
• Identify and develop new business opportunities.
• Maintain and grow existing customer relationships.

Skills

Strong technical problem-solving ability

Customer-facing communication skills

Ability to work cross-functionally

Business-oriented mindset

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering

Job description

A global chemical manufacturer is seeking a Technical & Business Manager – Polyurethane Solutions to lead and expand its polyurethane business across North America.

This role offers a unique opportunity for an experienced polyurethane professional to move beyond a purely technical or sales function and take broad ownership of a business line, combining technical leadership, customer engagement, commercial strategy, and operational coordination.

The position works closely with customers, manufacturing partners, and global R&D teams to grow market presence and deliver innovative polyurethane solutions.

Role Highlights

• Lead technical and commercial activities for a polyurethane product portfolio across North America
• Work directly with customers, manufacturing partners, and global R&D teams to support application development and business growth
• Contribute to market strategy, product positioning, and long-term business planning
• Operate in a cross-functional environment bridging technical service, operations, and commercial teams
• Opportunity to expand responsibilities alongside business growth

Key Responsibilities

Business & Strategy Leadership

• Support development and execution of regional business strategy and growth initiatives
• Analyze market trends, customer needs, and competitive landscape
• Drive revenue growth and profitability within the polyurethane product portfolio
• Collaborate with global teams to align regional activities with corporate strategy

Technical Service & Customer Support

• Provide technical expertise and application support to polyurethane customers
• Conduct product trials, evaluations, and troubleshooting at customer or production sites
• Act as a technical advisor to customers and internal stakeholders
• Coordinate closely with R&D teams on product improvements and new developments

Business Development

• Identify and develop new business opportunities and applications
• Build relationships with key customers and industry partners
• Deliver technical presentations and participate in industry events and conferences

Production & Supply Coordination

• Work with toll manufacturers and internal teams to support production activities
• Coordinate quality, supply planning, and inventory requirements
Ensure products meet customer specifications and regulatory requirements

Commercial & Account Management

• Maintain and grow existing customer relationships
• Support pricing discussions and commercial negotiations
• Monitor business performance and provide analytical insights

Qualifications

Required Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, or related field
• Approximately 10+ years of experience in polyurethane materials, systems, or foam technologies
• Experience providing technical service or application development support to manufacturing customers
• Exposure to commercial, sales, or business development activities within the chemical industry

Preferred Background

• Experience with polyurethane foam systems or formulations
• Industry experience with polyurethane raw materials, system houses, or specialty chemical suppliers
• Exposure to automotive or industrial applications is a plus

Skills

• Strong technical problem-solving ability
• Customer-facing communication skills
• Ability to work cross-functionally across technical and commercial teams
• Business-oriented mindset with strong analytical skills

Travel

• Approximately 25–30% travel within North America