Senior Operations Director in Coulsdon

As the largest pureplay adhesives company in the world, H.B. Fuller’s (NYSE: FUL) innovative, functional coatings, adhesives and sealants enhance the quality, safety and performance of products people use every day. Founded in 1887, with 2024 revenue of $3.6 billion, our mission to Connect What Matters is brought to life by more than 7,500 global team members who collaborate with customers across more than 30 market segments in over 140 countries to develop highly specified solutions that enable customers to bring world‑changing innovations to their end markets.

Position Overview: The Europe Sr. Operations Director will report directly to the Vice President of Global Operations. The primary responsibility will be to lead and drive regional manufacturing and create a high-performing team. This will involve the development and execution of a comprehensive manufacturing strategy which links productivity and quality performance measures with the sales and marketing strategies of the company.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a Europe manufacturing strategy aligned with global growth and sales plans.
• Lead with EHS as a core value (not just a priority)—strong on COMHA/process safety.
• Build and evolve a high-performance culture and leadership team across multiple cultures.
• Drive automation, LEAN, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement (SAP, MRP systems, asset monitoring, DCS familiarity).
• Evaluate and develop plant management talent – EC‑3 level evaluations.
• Oversee CAPEX decisions and facility upgrades.
• Support new product introduction with R&D and Commercial.
• Lead integration of new acquisitions.
• Eventually own the regional supply chain function.
• Ensure excellence in customer experience, productivity, and cost control.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s in engineering or operations management (mandatory).
• Senior leadership across multiple manufacturing plants, preferably in the chemical industry.
• Proven track record in driving change and process improvements; implementing automation and systems (SAP, MRP); developing and elevating talent.
• Deep knowledge of chemical manufacturing and EHS/COMHA compliance.
• Familiar with risk profiles in chemical and mechanical environments.
• Culturally aware of different countries in Europe.
• A collaborative, inclusive, and visible leadership style.
• Hands‑on presence at sites; values shop floor engagement.

H.B. Fuller is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and proud to have created a collaborative culture where employees around the world are seen, heard, and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or marital status or status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected classification.