Operations Director

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
• 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.