Strategy Director - Automotive Catalysts

About Umicore

Powering the cars of today and tomorrow. Reducing harmful emissions. Giving unique properties to high-end applications. Giving new life to used metals. As a global advanced materials and recycling group, we develop, produce, and recycle materials for a better life.

About Automotive Catalysts

We all have the right to breathe clean air, and at Umicore, we are a world leader in the production of automotive emission control catalysts. Our technologies enable on-road and non-road applications to meet environmental standards around the world. Our products have prevented billions of tons of harmful gases and particles being released into the atmosphere. To enable our customers to produce even cleaner engines we cannot stand still. We need to find new ways to do things, discover new solutions and develop new ideas. Which is where you come in.

What you will be doing

We are currently looking for a Strategy Director for our Automotive Catalyst (AC) Business Unit, based in Hanau, Germany. In this role you are part of the Corporate Development Team of Umicore, and you will oversee the definition and execution of the strategy of the AC Business Unit by working closely with the Management Team, Business Unit Management Teams and Group Management. You own the strategy roadmap process, with the support of external advisors, and assist and advise the Group’s Executive Leadership team and Supervisory Board in their strategic decision-making process. As a member of the Corporate Development Team, you will also contribute to extend the Corporate Development role as centre of knowledge and excellence for the group in the field of strategy, M&A, competitive intelligence and project management.

Responsibilities:

• Lead strategic reflections, shaping forward-looking strategies in the rapidly evolving clean mobility sector.
• Lead and sponsor strategic projects at Business Group and Business Unit level, ensuring alignment with Group objectives, contributing to long-term strategic planning and reviews, and overseeing key initiatives for timely execution and measurable impact.
• Provide Group-wide strategic advisory services in business strategy, M&A, and project management, while driving key M&A and transformation initiatives.
• Drive and support cross-functional (transversal) initiatives that enhance collaboration and alignment across the Group.
• Participate actively in the leadership and decision-making of the Catalysis BG as a frequent invitee to the Catalysis BG Management Team.
• Define and develop Business Unit strategies to support sustainable growth and competitive positioning.
• Manage ad-hoc strategic assignments on Group strategic topics, providing high-quality analysis and recommendations.
• Foster strong collaboration and stakeholder management across internal and external partners to ensure strategic alignment and effective implementation.

Who we are looking for

• 10 years of relevant professional experience, ideally with exposure to industrial sector, advanced materials or specialty chemicals; experience in the automotive sector is an advantage
• Master’s degree in a relevant field
• 5+ years of experience in management or strategy consulting, with a proven track record as a project leader
• Fluent English and German (both written and spoken)
• Strong strategic insight, exceptional analytical ability, and the capacity to structure, manage, and lead complex projects and teams
• Strong project management skills with a grounded, balanced approach and the ability to influence and impact stakeholders effectively. Hands-on experience in operational excellence, buy- and sell-side due diligence, and strategy implementation.
• Experience in multi-cultural business environments

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build strong, high-performing teams that leverage diverse perspectives to achieve shared goals
• Ability to adapt to changing contexts and tailor communication to different audiences, and operating effectively in ambiguous situations, maintaining clarity and focus
• Acting and operating with integrity, authenticity, and consistent behavior

What we offer

We aim to lead the way. Not just for our customers, but for our employees too. That is why we strive to create a collaborative environment in which we can all succeed, and a culture through which we can all share ideas, develop our expertise and advance our careers. We engage in building an inclusive work culture that offers equal opportunities for all employees irrespective of their diverse backgrounds. As you would expect from a world-leading organisation, we will also reward your contribution with a competitive salary and benefits. With all this and more, imagine what you could do?

If our teams can help reduce harmful vehicle emissions, IMAGINE WHAT YOU COULD DO?

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