DuBois Chemicals-posted 6 days ago
Full-time • Director
Onsite • Sharonville, OH

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they are doing! We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business. Note: This position is based in our Sharonville, OH headquarters POSITION SUMMARY 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.

  • Strategic Leadership & Innovation 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.
  • Research & Development Management 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.
  • Applications & Technical Service Leadership 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.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration 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.
  • People Leadership 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.
  • Operational & Financial Management 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.
  • 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%
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