Regional COO/CTO – Operations & Technology Leader

About the role

The Regional COO/CTO will steer operational excellence across multiple production sites for Klüber Lubrication, a global leader in specialty lubrication within the Freudenberg Group. This senior leader will align strategy, drive transformation, and ensure safety, quality, and customer satisfaction throughout the region.

Key responsibilities

• Lead all operational functions across several sites, ensuring strategic alignment and performance.
• Oversee production, supply chain, procurement, PMO/OPEX, QHSE, MCM/MDM, R&D, and overall operational strategy.
• Guide functional managers and front‑line supervisors, building high‑performing, accountable teams.
• Optimize manpower, material, and machinery efficiency while reducing overhead and raw‑material costs to meet budget targets.
• Maintain top‑level commitment to quality and safety, ensuring compliance with ISO, IATF, OHAS, Halal/Food Grade and other standards.
• Enhance customer satisfaction and employee engagement to foster a high‑performance culture.
• Drive operational transformation, elevate excellence, and support sustainable regional growth in a multi‑country environment.

Required profile

• Advanced technical degree with 15+ years in operations and at least 7 years in senior leadership (Executive‑level or SVP/COO‑CTO experience).
• Broad experience in production, engineering, supply chain, and multi‑site/multi‑country P&L ownership.
• Strong knowledge of process technology and chemical production, preferably from pharmaceutical or specialty chemical industries.
• Deep understanding of quality systems (ISO, IATF, OHAS, Halal/Food Grade) and HSE compliance.
• Proven track record of leading transformations, operational excellence, and large‑scale efficiency programs.

Required skills

• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
• Process technology expertise
• Chemical production process knowledge
• ISO quality systems implementation
• HSE compliance management