Interim Site Manager

About The Job At Quaker Houghton, we are experts in the development, production and application of chemical specialties, process fluids, lubricants, and coatings for the manufacturing industry. We have been an integral part in the growth of the world’s largest industrial companies and to this day our experience and expertise show in the actions and dedication of our Associates worldwide. Today, we have a global presence, with our corporate headquarters located in Conshohocken, PA. Quaker Houghton is a global publicly traded company with a unique collaborative culture that supports career growth for its associates and offers competitive compensation and benefit programs. We are seeking an Interim Site Manager on a 12-month fixed term contract to lead our operations at the Dortmund facility during a key phase of transformation. You will ensure the site continues to run safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with our global standards, while supporting teams through ongoing organizational changes. This role requires a strong, people-oriented leader who can provide stability, clarity, and motivation — balancing hands-on operational management with strategic alignment to future business goals. What’s in it For You? • Company car + fuel expenses • Pension scheme and life insurance • Company laptop + mobile phone • 2 paid days annually for volunteering • Access to our global Quaker Houghton University for ongoing learning • Programs supporting wellbeing, inclusion, and diversity What Will You Do? • Lead all aspects of the Dortmund site operations, ensuring safety, compliance, and operational excellence throughout a transition period. • Manage a team of 4 direct reports and approximately 40–50 indirect reports across various functions. • Provide strong leadership and support to on-site teams, fostering motivation, communication, and collaboration. • Ensure compliance with EHS, ISO, and company quality standards. • Oversee site performance, including cost management, process efficiency, and resource optimization. • Work closely with EHS, HR, Finance, and R&D to maintain effective and aligned site operations. • Develop and track KPIs, budgets, and performance reports. • Represent the site in audits, reviews, and stakeholder meetings. • Drive a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. What Do We Look For? • Experience: Minimum 10 years in a management or plant leadership role, ideally within a manufacturing or chemical environment. • Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience. • Language: Fluency in German and English (spoken and written). • Location: Live within good commutable distance to our site at Giselherstr. 57, 44319 Dortmund. • Skills: • Proven ability to lead teams through change and transformation • Strong leadership and people management abilities • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills • High safety and quality awareness • Pragmatic, results-driven, and adaptable approach • Strong collaboration with cross-functional stakeholders Who Are We? We are the global leader in industrial process fluids, operating in over 40 countries and supporting the world’s leading manufacturers in steel, aluminum, automotive, and aerospace. Our 100+ locations bring together chemists, engineers, and industry experts who partner with our customers to improve operations and enable progress. Our values: • Live Safe • Act with Integrity • Exceed Customer Expectations • Drive Results • Embrace Diversity • Do Great Things Together Together, these values define who we are — guiding how we work, make decisions, and shape a safer, stronger Quaker Houghton.