Senior Director, Research & Development - Industrial Fluids & Lubricants

Dubois Chemicals • Sharonville, OH

5d • Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

• 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%

Responsibilities

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Benefits

• DuBois excellent benefit package includes health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, 401k with company match, paid holidays, vacation time and income protection plans.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree