Global Director - R&D & Quality Systems

Summary

The Global Director - R&D & Quality Systems is responsible for setting and executing the enterprise-wide strategy across Global Compounds for research and innovation, product and process quality, and sustainability across global operations. The role ensures products, technologies, and processes are innovative, compliant, high quality, and aligned with sustainability and ESG commitments.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Research & Innovation

  • Lead global research and innovation strategy aligned with business objectives.
  • Oversee R&D programs across regions to support growth and product differentiation.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies, partnerships, and external collaborations.

• Quality Management

  • Provide global leadership for quality management systems and standards.
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory, customer, and industry requirements.
  • Lead continuous improvement and corrective action initiatives.

• Sustainability & ESG

  • Define and execute global sustainability strategy and objectives.
  • Support sustainability reporting and ESG data governance.
  • Integrate sustainability into product development and operations.

• Leadership & Governance

  • Lead and develop global teams across research, quality, and sustainability.
  • Collaborate with executive leadership and cross-functional stakeholders.

Education, Experience and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, Environmental Science, or related field required.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) preferred.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive global leadership experience in R&D, quality, or sustainability.

Physical Demands

• Frequent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, reaching, talking, and hearing.
• Occasional stooping, kneeling, or crouching.
• Frequent lifting and/or moving up to 10 pounds, and infrequent lifting and/or moving up to 30 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Frequent minor decisions with limited information, general decisions in the absence of specific directions, and sustained concentration required.
• Up to 20% travel may be required.

Work Environment

• The noise level in the work environment is sometimes moderate when working in an office, however, some of the work may be required in the operating units which mandates usage of required PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) including safety glasses, hearing protection, etc.
• During active remediation, additional requirements may include fit testing for respiratory equipment, chemical suits, face shields, etc.
• Moderate travel (20-40%) may be required in the performance of duties.

Benefits

• Westlake offers a competitive compensation package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• The company provides opportunities for professional development and advancement within the organization.
• Westlake is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, where all employees are valued and respected.

Pay

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.

Schedule

• Full-time position with flexible hours to accommodate the needs of the role and the company.

Company Information

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.