Global Business Director, Optical Materials

About the role

The Global Business Director, Optical Materials will lead the Optical and Dye business within the Specialty Products unit, shaping strategy, driving revenue and profit growth, and fostering a high‑performing team culture.

Key responsibilities

• Manage all commercial aspects of the Optical and Dye business, including sales, new business development, product development, technical service and segment strategy.
• Own revenue, EBIT, EBIT growth and return on invested capital targets.
• Define and implement a strategic plan that strengthens competitive position and ensures long‑term success.
• Collaborate with strategic marketing to develop product portfolio strategy, growth roadmaps and new product development processes.
• Lead a robust sales and profit plan, drive commercial excellence (Selling Machine), and execute pricing strategies.
• Identify and address barriers to growth, work with manufacturing and supply chain to develop business plans.
• Provide market intelligence for SIOP forecasting and support IBP adoption.
• Support plant managers in capacity planning, productivity improvements and cost‑efficient production.
• Establish and nurture relationships with key customers, industry associations and internal stakeholders.
• Lead and develop a high‑performing team, providing direction to product managers and marketing communications.

Required profile

• Proven leadership experience managing a global business unit within the specialty products or chemicals sector.
• Strong financial acumen with responsibility for revenue, EBIT and capital return.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic plans that drive profitable growth.
• Experience in new product development, portfolio management and market expansion.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills across sales, marketing, manufacturing and supply chain.

Required skills