Head of Operations **URGENT**

Ashland has an exciting opportunity for an Operations Manager to join our Specialty Ingredients G.P. business at our Hopewell, VA location. This is a very visible, significant role within the Company, and the Natrosol hydroxyethyl cellulose HEC Operations functions. This position will be on the site leadership team and report to the Plant Manager.

The responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to, the following:

Maintaining a safe work environment for all site employees and visitors while complying with all local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations and company guidelines.

Develop and manage financial budget and production plan for site operations to meet business objectives.

Developing and implementing a strategic plan for the site, balancing its immediate needs with the company’s long-term goals.

Identify opportunities for continuous improvement and facilitate the implementation of initiatives to improve the site’s profitability.

Working closely with support organizations to resolve production issues, quality issues, improve efficiency, respond to customer complaints, and support on-time deliveries of finished goods.

Modeling positive leadership through open and effective communication, motivation, example setting, and best practices.

Supporting a positive team environment in which members participate, respect, and cooperate with each other to achieve desired results.

In order to be qualified for this role, you must possess the following:

Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline

Minimum 15 years of manufacturing experience (preferably in chemical manufacturing), including vast operations management experience and ability to manage a site of >150 employees and contractors

Strong knowledge of PSM programs, reaction, distillation, powder handling, and handling of high-hazard chemicals

Ability to lead, influence, build, and develop a cross‑functional team across various skill sets. Proven self-starter with urgency to deliver results. Ability to have a hands‑on approach

Proven management experience and experience in managing collective bargaining unit employees

Experience working within and complying with all governmental regulations (OSHA, EPA, FDA, etc.) and reporting requirements globally as required

The following skill sets are preferred by the business unit:

Knowledge of FDA cGMP operations requirements, safety programs, and environmental regulations

Previous cellulose manufacturing experience

Experience in project engineering and deployment of capital projects

Six Sigma, Lean, or relevant continuous improvement experience

Ashland is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled/Gender Identity/Sexual Orientation.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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