Manages Loncin, Belgium manufacturing facility which has been a mainstay of Cabot’s black masterbatch and compounds business for more than 40 years. Originally opened in 1970, the facility employs about 60 people. The site supports three manufacturing units, with products primarily sold to customers across the EMEA region.
Manages production, as well as all other cross-functional activities for Belgium.
• Ensures safe production of products that meet customers’ needs for quality and quantity.
• Manages activities of plant’s cross-functional staff and ensures compliance with all company and external standards/regulations for Manufacturing, Sales, SH&E, Finance, Quality, HR, and Community Affairs.
• Develops a culture where all employees pursue continuous improvement. Ensures improvement of process capability / reliability, resulting in less process variability and reduction in generation of off-quality material. Ensures safe, reliable and cost-effective manufacturing of standard recipe products. Ensures that the appropriate management of change process is followed for recipe modification. Effectively manages local measurement capability, resulting in desired levels of measurement error for expected testing of Cabot products.
• Demonstrates commitment to effective Human Resource processes and effectively promotes the necessity of excellence in these activities throughout the site.
• Establishes and implements local initiatives that enhance effective utilization of plant assets through prudent management of fixed and variable costs. Ensures long-term integrity and fit for purpose of all facility assets. Efficiently manages capital budget through use of the capital management system.
• Plans and monitors departmental budgets and expenditures to meet financial cost targets and objectives established through formal planning processes.
• Contributes to the strategic development of the site, including innovation initiatives, digital transformation, and alignment with corporate sustainability goals.
• Leads community outreach that includes development, implementation, and participation in a facility plan consistent with our neighbor’s choice of philosophy.
• Effectively practices Performance Based Management by coaching and developing employees, direct as well as matrix reports, and assuring effective alignment with the matrix functions.
• Fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration, and empowerment across all levels of the organization.
• Collaborates closely with global functional leaders to ensure alignment with corporate standards and strategic priorities.
• Legal representative (“Administrateur”) of the Belgium Legal entity. Ensures Internal and External controls are in place and efficient. Supervises Quality systems efficiency (ISO 9001 and other certifications)
• Ensures the site is prepared for emergencies and disruptions through robust crisis management and business continuity plans.
• Leads Belgium social relations (CPPT, CE & social delegation) and brings special attention to social peace on the plant.
• Ensures compliance with Belgian laws regarding operating permits, environmental protection, and the safeguarding of property and individuals.
• Strong knowledge of chemical manufacturing processes and safety procedures. Knowledge of Continuous Improvement process and techniques. Strong focus on safety and environmental concerns.
• In-depth understanding of how plant integrates with Cabot’s manufacturing goals.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to organize and manage resources, including budgets.
• Leadership skills to motivate and lead cross-functional staff. Ability to provide oversight and guidance to staff.
• Ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments.
• Ability to deal with external contacts and community as needed.
• Resilience and adaptability in a fast-changing industrial context.
• Languages: Fluent in French and English
Education/Experience
• Bachelor/University Degree, preferably in technical discipline.
• 7-10 years manufacturing experience, including prior people/budget management experience.