Global Technical Director - Lubricants & Energy

Overview

Global Technical Director - Lubricants & Energy

Strategic global leadership at the intersection of innovation, sustainability and technical excellence. IMCD is looking for a senior technical leader who can shape and execute the global technical strategy within our Lubricants & Energy business group. As Global Technical Director, you will lead cross-regional technical teams, drive innovation and sustainable solutions, and strengthen the link between technical excellence and commercial success. This is a high-impact role where you combine strategic leadership with deep technical know-how, and where your expertise directly contributes to business growth, supplier value and customer satisfaction.

Element E and related marketing language were part of the original job description; this refinement retains the core job information while removing non-essential promotional content where possible.

Key responsibilities

• Define and implement the global technical strategy for Lubricants & Energy.
• Lead collaboration across regional teams and ensure global technical alignment.
• Drive capability development and oversee technical infrastructure and lab investments.
• Ensure continuous improvement and excellence in technical service delivery.

Innovation & Customer Value

• Guide teams in solving technical challenges with commercial impact.
• Develop new concepts and applications that address real customer needs.
• Act as senior technical contact for strategic customers and suppliers.
• Represent IMCD in technical seminars and forums.

Segment Technical Expertise

• Serve as segment expert for Driveline, Fuels and Industrial Oils.
• Provide hands-on formulation, application and troubleshooting support.
• Support sales during customer visits and deliver technical training sessions.
• Maintain clear technical documentation for internal and external use.

Business Development Support

• Work closely with Business Development to assess new technologies and suppliers.
• Conduct market and portfolio gap analyses to identify opportunities.
• Ensure technical readiness for onboarding new suppliers/products.
• Provide strategic feedback to suppliers on market needs.

What you bring

Required:

• Degree in Chemistry or Mechanical Engineering.
• 10+ years' experience in technical, commercial or business development roles within Lubricants & Fuels.
• Deep technical knowledge of specialty raw materials (especially Driveline, Fuels). Engine oils, Industrial Oils, Metalworking fluids and Greases experience are also desired.
• Experience leading technical teams and driving measurable performance.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Fluent in English.
• Willingness to travel (approx. 25%).
• Skilled with CRM systems and Microsoft Office.

Preferred:

• Proven track record in technical-commercial innovation.
• Supplier onboarding and portfolio development experience.
• Clear communicator with strong presentation skills.

Location

Location: UK, Germany, France, Italy or Benelux with global scope.

The impact of your role

This is not just a leadership position, it's a key enabler of our global technical success. Your decisions shape our innovation pipeline, our commercial growth, and how we deliver value to customers and suppliers across all regions.

What we offer

• A global stage to lead and innovate in a dynamic, high-growth business.
• The opportunity to shape IMCD's technical future in Lubricants & Energy.
• Access to 82 laboratories, world-class suppliers, and entrepreneurial peers.
• Flexible working conditions and support for international relocation.
• Competitive salary, bonus, and long-term career potential.

About IMCD

IMCD is a leading global distributor and formulator of specialty chemicals and ingredients. Headquartered in Rotterdam, we operate in more than 60 countries with over 5,100 employees. With 82 application laboratories and a digital-first approach, we co-create formulations that shape a more sustainable and innovative future. In 2024, IMCD reported revenues of €4.7 billion and is listed on Euronext Amsterdam (AEX). Our Lubricants & Energy group supports customers across automotive, industrial, and energy sectors with best-in-class formulation know-how, application services, and sustainable performance technologies.

Ready to add Element E to your career?
Apply now and help us drive innovation and excellence in the global Lubricants & Energy industry.