Description
Head of Technical & Operations
£75,000–£90,000 + performance bonus
UK home-based | Regular attendance in Blackburn | UK & international travel
Cranleigh STEM is recruiting a Head of Technical & Operations for an established lubricants business serving international automotive markets.
Reporting to the CEO/Board and joining the Senior Leadership Team, you’ll take ownership of product quality, technical governance and the end-to-end supply chain.
This is a hands-on role within a small team, suited to someone equally comfortable approving formulations, negotiating with manufacturing partners and keeping production, stock and customer orders on track.
The role:
- Manage third-party blending partners, production scheduling and supplier performance.
- Lead sales and operations planning, inventory management, order fulfilment and logistics.
- Control procurement and product costs, improving margins and supply resilience.
- Oversee formulations, batch release, testing, regulatory compliance and technical documentation.
- Maintain industry specifications and support OEM approvals and new product development.
- Provide technical support and training to customers, distributors and commercial teams.
- Contribute to business strategy and improve operational processes.
What we’re looking for:
- A degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related science.
- At least eight years’ experience in lubricants, additives or petrochemicals, spanning technical/quality and supply chain or operations.
- Experience managing third-party blenders or toll manufacturers.
- Knowledge of API/ACEA specifications, OEM approvals, PDS/SDS and CLP/REACH requirements.
- Strong commercial awareness, supplier negotiation skills and confidence using ERP/inventory systems.
- A proactive, organised approach and the ability to work independently within a small team.
- A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel internationally.
The package:
£75,000–£90,000 depending on experience, annual performance bonus, 5% employer pension contribution, private medical insurance and 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays.
Interested? Contact Gareth at Cranleigh STEM for a confidential discussion or send your CV to apply.
