Operational Advisor – KSA Polymer Manufacturing Project (Part time- Future Transition to Full-time)

Role OverviewWe are seeking a seasoned polymer industry operations leader to join our team as an Operational Advisor for a new world-class polymer manufacturing project in Saudi Arabia, focused initially on polyacrylamide (PAM) and polyDADMAC production.This individual will bring deep experience from Europe’s established polymer industry — ideally having established, commissioned, and successfully operated polymer manufacturing plants — and will guide our project through its strategic, technical, and operational stages.The role will begin as a part-time advisory position, with modest monthly compensation and periodic site visits to Saudi Arabia. As the project advances into construction, commissioning, and operations, this role is expected to evolve into a full-time executive leadership position (e.g., COO / Plant Director) based in Saudi Arabia.Key ResponsibilitiesAdvisory Phase (Part-Time; ~first 12–18 months):Provide strategic input into the design, engineering, and EPC contractor selection process.Review and validate technical studies, process design packages, and plant specifications.Share best practices from established polymer operations in Europe regarding plant layout, production processes, and safety standards.Advise on raw material sourcing, utilities requirements, and logistics planning for feedstock and finished products.Support in stakeholder engagement, including government bodies, regulators, and potential off-take partners.Guide the development of O&M strategy, including staffing, training, and HSE frameworks.Pre-Commissioning & Ramp-Up Phase (Increasing Involvement):Oversee construction monitoring and pre-commissioning testing from an operational lens.Train and mentor the Saudi-based operational team, ensuring knowledge transfer.Define standard operating procedures (SOPs), quality assurance protocols, and maintenance schedules.Support the recruitment of key plant-level managers and engineers.Full-Time Leadership Role (Commissioning & Operations):Lead the operational launch of the plant, ensuring smooth commissioning and ramp-up.Manage end-to-end plant operations, including production, quality, supply chain, and maintenance.Drive operational efficiency, cost optimization, and capacity utilization.Ensure compliance with environmental, health 'safety regulations (local and international).Build a high-performance culture focused on continuous improvement, innovation, and sustainability.Qualifications & Experience20–30 years of experience in the polymer manufacturing industry, ideally PAM, polyDADMAC, or similar water treatment / specialty polymers.Proven track record of setting up, commissioning, and managing polymer manufacturing facilities at scale.Strong technical expertise in polymerization processes, plant design, and production management.Experience working with EPC contractors, technology licensors, and equipment suppliers.Familiarity with European operational, environmental, and safety standards; ability to adapt these to the GCC context.Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor and build teams from scratch.Excellent communication skills; capable of engaging with senior stakeholders, regulators, and government authorities.Engagement Model & CompensationWe are open for a mutually convenient arrangement with the right candidate, but below is an indicative description of the envisioned consulting arrangement over the project lifecycle. Phase 1 – Advisory (part-time):Monthly retainer (flexible, based on weekly commitment and project requirements).3–5 days per month commitment (remote + site visits every few months).Phase 2 – Pre-commissioning / ramp-up:Increased involvement (possibly 20–50% time).Compensation adjusted accordinglyPhase 3 – Full-time role (Commissioning & Operations):Relocation to Saudi Arabia.Competitive executive package (base salary, housing/relocation, benefits, and performance bonus).Other ConsiderationsInitial engagement via consulting/advisory contract to maintain flexibility.Clear transition plan to full-time role once plant construction is advanced.Termination flexibility: Agreement ceases if the project is suspended or abandoned.Potential incentive schemes tied to successful commissioning and achievement of commercial production milestones.

Created: 2025-09-10