Sherrington is retained by the Chemical Business Association to recruit a Business Operations Director.
Chemical Business Association
Since 1923 the Chemical Business Association has been the voice of the chemical supply chain. It is the leading organisation representing the complete chemical supply chain and an award-winning trade association, now with record levels of membership.
Many CBA members are SMEs and include manufacturers, distributors, traders, warehouse operators, logistics and transport companies, as well as service providers and suppliers who collectively are the main chemical industry interface providing products and services to virtually every sector.
Such a diverse membership gives the CBA a distinct advantage of a 360-degree view and insight of the global chemical supply chain which, combined with the extensive and in-depth expertise of its staff, enables the CBA to provide wide-ranging services and support to its members, as well as to engage and work closely with Government not to mention other key stakeholders in the UK and overseas.
The chemicals and pharmaceutical industry is the UK’s second biggest industry and is the nation’s number one manufacturing exporter. CBA members contribute in excess of £4 billion to the UK economy and employ over 10,000 people nationwide, handling in excess of 27 million tonnes and making over 2.25 million deliveries of chemicals each year.
Health and safety, as well as people and sustainability are at the heart of the CBA, as it leads and participates in many initiatives such as the ‘Responsible Care Programme’ which it has been part of since 1993.
Business Operations Director
Following the departure of the long-serving Special Projects Director in November 2024, an opportunity has arisen to consider the structure of CBA’s senior-management team.
After carefully reviewing the needs of the organisation and taking into account the skills needed most to deliver impact for our members, a new role of Business Director has been created, with a remit to support the CEO to create and execute a winning strategy to retain and grow members, whilst delivering continually improving value for the sector.
Joining at arguably the most exciting point in our organisation’s history, the role of Business Director is a change to make a positive difference to the chemical supply chain.
The Business Operations Director (BOD) will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations and support the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with the overall leadership of the organisation and strategic planning. The BOD will ensure that the company’s operations are efficient, effective, and aligned with the long-term goals of the organisation. The BOD role is a new full-time post introduced as part of our long-term strategy to ensure that our member’s current and future needs are catered for, and to deliver the highest levels of member service and support giving the best possible membership experience.
Key Requirements:
CBA is looking to appoint a highly-capable people leader who fits seamlessly with the organisational culture and whose natural drive, energy, ambition and professionalism can help propel the business to the next level and achieve the team’s collective aspirations for growth. CBA’s success has been built on taking a highly relational approach to member engagement, and prioritising ‘doing the right thing’ for members, every time. As such, the new Business Operations Director will need to exemplify the following criteria to achieve success in the role…
Leadership Experience:
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior management role in the chemical supply chain.
- Proven track record of successfully managing operations, leading teams, and playing a lead role as part of a senior management team, in developing and successfully executing winning growth strategies.
- Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to think strategically and solve complex problems.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, with aptitude to learn new software and systems.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
- Minimum A' level or equivalent (leadership experience will be balanced against level of education).
Leadership Competencies:
- Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to think strategically and solve complex problems.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, with aptitude to learn new software and systems.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.
Personal Characteristics:
- Demonstrates high levels of integrity – always.
- Acts with courage
- Works collaboratively
- Creates an enjoyable working environment
- Pursues excellence
- Continuously improves
- Upholds morals and ethics
- Makes a lasting impact
Qualifications:
- Minimum A' level or equivalent (leadership experience will be balanced against level of education).
Working Conditions:
- This position will require travel, both domestically and internationally.
To Apply:
To apply for this unique opportunity to join the respected international body for the chemical industry and supply chain in this key leadership role, please email your CV and Cover Letter to the retained search consultant, quoting Job Reference: RM385.
Joe Onions - Executive Search Consultant
T: +44 (0) 1244 310145
E: joe.onions@sherringtonassociates.co.uk
