Category Head – Oleochemicals & Lubricants

We are seeking an entrepreneurial and commercially driven Category Head – Oleochemicals & Lubricants to build and scale our Oleochemicals and Lubricants business globally. The role will be responsible for category growth, strategic sourcing, supplier partnerships, customer acquisition, revenue growth, and P&L management.

The ideal candidate should possess deep industry expertise in oleochemicals, lubricant additives, base oils, specialty lubricants, and industrial chemical markets, with a proven track record of driving business growth and managing strategic customer relationships.

Key Responsibilities

Business Growth & Strategy

- Develop and execute category growth strategy for Oleochemicals and Lubricants. - Drive revenue, profitability, and market expansion across domestic and international markets. - Identify high-growth products, market opportunities, and emerging industry trends.

Category & Portfolio Management

- Build and expand the product portfolio across oleochemicals and lubricant ingredients. - Identify new principals, manufacturers, and supplier partnerships globally. - Manage product lifecycle, pricing strategy, positioning, and inventory planning.

Business Development & Customer Acquisition

- Develop relationships with key customers across lubricant manufacturers, industrial users, metalworking fluid companies, grease manufacturers, and specialty chemical formulators. - Lead strategic customer discussions, negotiations, and commercial agreements. - Drive new business acquisition and key account growth.

Supply Chain & Sourcing

- Establish strong partnerships with domestic and international manufacturers. - Ensure reliable sourcing, cost optimization, and supply continuity. - Collaborate with procurement and operations teams to improve margins and service levels.

Leadership & P&L Ownership

- Own category P&L, budgeting, forecasting, and profitability targets. - Build and mentor a high-performing commercial team. - Collaborate with cross-functional teams including sourcing, operations, quality, regulatory, and finance.

Preferred Product Experience

Oleochemicals

- Fatty Acids - Fatty Alcohols - Esters - Glycerine - Distilled Fatty Acids - Oleic Acid - Stearic Acid - Methyl Esters - Surfactant Intermediates

Lubricants & Additives

- Base Oils (Group I, II, III) - Synthetic Base Stocks - Ester-Based Lubricants - Industrial Lubricants - Metalworking Fluids - Greases - Antioxidants - Corrosion Inhibitors - Viscosity Modifiers - Anti-wear Additives - Performance Additives

Preferred Background

- 10+ years of experience in Oleochemicals, Lubricants, Specialty Chemicals, or Industrial Chemicals. - Strong commercial experience in category management, business development, sourcing, and product management. - Demonstrated experience handling strategic supplier and customer relationships. - Proven track record of revenue generation and P&L ownership. - Strong understanding of global supply chains and chemical distribution markets. - Excellent negotiation, stakeholder management, and leadership skills.

Success Metrics

- Revenue Growth - Gross Margin Expansion - New Customer Acquisition - Strategic Supplier Partnerships - Portfolio Expansion - Market Share Growth - Category Profitability - Team Development