Head of Specialities in London

Head of Specialities
Handley James Chemical are excited to be engaged as the search partner to a family owned, multi‐billion turnover chemical business with both distribution and manufacturing capabilities. With over 60 years in chemical distribution market, they serve as an interface between chemical manufacturers and the chemical processing industry.

This role will support the continued growth of the business by leading and growing the Specialties segment of the business, overseeing sales and purchasing activities across CASE (Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants & Elastomers), Personal Care, and HI&I (Household, Industrial & Institutional) markets.

Key Responsibilities:

Define and execute the commercial strategy for the Specialties portfolio across CASE, Personal Care, and HI&I sectors.

Own the P&L for the Specialties division, ensuring growth in revenue, margin, and market share.

Drive key account management and new business development efforts.

Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and customer needs to identify growth opportunities.

Set pricing strategies in line with margin objectives and market conditions.

Manage and expand relationships with existing principals and specialty chemical manufacturers.

Identify and onboard new suppliers to broaden the product portfolio.

Negotiate commercial terms, contracts, and supply agreements.

Lead, mentor, and develop a team of sales managers, product managers, and buyers.

Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture with clear objectives and accountability.

Coordinate cross‐functional efforts with logistics, regulatory, finance, and customer service teams.

Required experience:

Proven leadership experience in specialties or performance chemicals within distribution or manufacturing.

Strong commercial acumen across both sales and procurement.

Knowledge and experience within CASE (Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants & Elastomers).

Track record of driving profitable growth and managing supplier relationships.

Experience overseeing P&L and commercial strategy.

Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Experience working within a UK/European chemical distributor.

Familiarity with REACH, CLP, ESG and regulatory frameworks.

This role is a remote position with expected travel domestically and internationally. They have various offices throughout the UK but ideally someone already located in the South of the UK would be advantageous.

Base salary: c£100,000 – £120,000pa, bonus and benefits.

Please kindly note , we may only reply to candidates who match the position.

About us:

Handley James Chemical are a UK based international Search business, we pride ourselves on a personable and process driven approach ensuring the very best levels of service. As acknowledged specialists in a number of disciplines, we support the Chemical and associated industries by providing a truly consultative service to our clients and candidates alike.

Seniority level
Mid‐Senior level

Employment type
Full‐time

Job function
Management and Sales

Industries
Staffing and Recruiting

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