Cefic is looking for a Executive director for the Petrochemicals Europe.
The Executive Director of Petrochemicals Europe leads one of Cefic’s three core industry sectors, part of the Cefic Leadership team, and representing a vital segment at the start and the heart of the European chemical industry. This role is both strategic and operational, responsible for steering the sector’s policy and transitional change agenda, work with the Petrochemicals Board, managing the Brussels-based team and its associated 20+ sector groups, and serving as the public face of the European petrochemical industry, whilst operating as a liaison between the petrochemical industry and policy makers in Europe. Leading and delivering various key projects in the interest of petrochemicals Europe and Cefic.
Key Responsibilities
1. Board Support
Advise and support the Petrochemicals Europe Board on strategic matters. Work closely with chair and vice-chair for planning and priority settings. Prepare and present the agenda, proposals, updates, and reports to guide decision-making.
2. Strategic & Change Leadership
The multiple dimensions of the transition of the industry are prominent at the start of the complex value chain. Direct and coordinate the activities of Petrochemicals Europe and its associated Cefic sector groups. Implement Board policy decisions and align sectoral priorities with Cefic’s broader policy agenda.
3. Leverage interests in Cefic
Active leverage between the Policy Councils and the Industry Sectors, as an active member of the Cefic Leadership Team. Active participation and contribution to the CEFIC programme councils and fora.
4. Advocacy & Representation:
Act as the primary spokesperson and advocate for the European petrochemical industry. Represent the sector in regulatory, political, and public forums across Europe and globally.
5. Stakeholder Engagement:
Build and maintain strong networks and relationships both upstream and downstream, with internal and external stakeholders, including EU institutions, member companies, national and international associations, and global partners (e.g. GPCA, EPCA, Concawe, Fuels Europe, Plastics Europe). Ability to engage at expert as well as CEO level. Regular travel is required.
6. Policy & Regulatory Affairs:
Lead the sector’s engagement on key policy areas such as climate change, energy, REACH, HSE, and sustainability. Ensure the sector’s voice is heard in shaping EU legislation and industrial strategy on a broad range of key themes such as Crackers, CCS, Recycling, Innovation, H2, Electrification, Carbon allocation, CBAM and strategic papers.
7. Team & Operational Management:
Oversee the daily operations of the Petrochemicals Europe team. Provide leadership, mentorship and staff/team development and foster integration and collaboration within and outside of Cefic. Coordination across technical, advocacy, and communications functions. Manage budget, cash flows, contracts and invoicing.
Candidate Profile
8. Experience
Extensive leadership experience in the global petrochemical, oil, and/or chemical sectors. Proven track record in managing complex stakeholder environments and driving strategic change initiatives.
9. Expertise
Deep knowledge of petrochemical manufacturing technology, markets, regulatory frameworks, and sustainability challenges. Experience in project management, crisis management and public affairs is highly valued.
10. Education
Advanced degree in Chemical Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. Multilingual capabilities and international exposure are strong assets.
11. Leadership Style
Visionary, collaborative, and resilient. Able to navigate political as well as industrial landscapes, with the ability to align diverse views. Open minded, trusted partner, inspire teams, and represent the industry with credibility and authority. The role comes with regular travel and providing presentations at conferences and participate and/or in expert panels. Positive, high drive can do attitude.
Strategic importance
The Executive Director plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the petrochemical industry remains a cornerstone of Europe’s industrial base while transitioning toward a more sustainable, circular, and low-carbon economy.