Managing Director - Personal Care - France
Job Title: Managing Director - Personal Care Chemicals
Location: The role can be (home) based or at our offices in Paris, France or Zurich, Switzerland and focused on EMEA accounts.
It involves travel (approx. 25-50%).
Company Type: Innovative Specialty Chemicals Manufacturer
Employment Type: Full-Time | Executive Level
About the Role
We are seeking a visionary and commercially driven Managing Director to lead our French operations focused on personal care chemicals. This role is ideal for a strategic leader with deep industry expertise, a passion for innovation, and a track record of scaling business units in the specialty chemicals sector.
With over 100 years of heritage, our client is a Swiss-based manufacturer renowned for crafting high-quality personal care chemicals, primarily for the cosmetics industry.
- Lead and grow the French division of the company, with full P&L responsibility.
- Develop and execute strategic plans to expand market share in personal care ingredients (emollients, surfactants, actives, etc.).
- Build and manage high-performing teams across sales, R&D, and operations.
- Foster partnerships with cosmetic brands, distributors, and regulatory bodies.
- Oversee compliance with EU chemical regulations (REACH, CLP, etc.).
- Drive innovation in sustainable and bio-based chemical solutions.
Qualifications
- Proven leadership experience in the personal care or specialty chemicals industry.
- Strong understanding of formulation science, regulatory frameworks, and market dynamics in Europe.
- Fluent in French and English.
- Experience managing cross-functional teams and international stakeholders.
- Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field; MBA preferred.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a fast-growing, innovation-led company shaping the future of sustainable personal care.
- Competitive executive compensation package.
- Opportunity to influence global strategy and product development.
How to Apply
Send your CV and cover letter to with the subject line: Managing Director Application - Personal Care
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.