Business unit director (mexico city, mexico) - chemical manufacturing
a highly successful, international manufacturing group is seeking a business unit director to lead and grow its operations in mexico. This is a pivotal leadership role with full responsibility for a strategically important business unit, offering significant scope to drive performance, expansion, and long-term value creation. This is a hybrid role with some travel.
the role
based in the mexico city area, the business unit director will assume full p&l responsibility and provide strong, visible leadership across commercial, operational, and technical functions. The business manufactures in mexico and serves both domestic and international customers across specialised industrial markets.
key responsibilities include:
* defining and executing the commercial and operational strategy for the mexico business
* driving sustainable, profitable growth across multiple product segments
* leading manufacturing, supply chain, sales, and technical teams to deliver operational excellence
* ensuring the highest standards of health, safety, environmental compliance, and process safety
* building and developing a high-performing, collaborative leadership team
* strengthening relationships with key regional and global customers
* identifying and executing expansion opportunities within mexico
candidate profile
this role requires a seasoned executive with a strong blend of strategic, commercial, and operational leadership experience.
essential experience:
* proven leadership experience as a general manager, managing director, or senior business leader within industrial manufacturing
* strong background in batch manufacturing environments (critical requirement)
* experience working with hazardous chemicals and/or regulated industrial processes
* demonstrated experience managing a complex, multi-site organisation
* clear examples of building and leading collaborative, high-performing teams
* proven track record of improving financial performance and value creation, including consistent ebitda growth year-on-year
* strong understanding of manufacturing operations, supply chain, and technical product environments
* strong knowledge of local employment policies and experience fostering an engaged, compliant workforce
additional strengths:
* strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance strategy and hands-on execution
* experience working within an international or matrix organisation
* high level of credibility with customers, stakeholders, and employees
* cultural awareness and leadership style suited to the mexican market
location
this is a hybrid role, partly based in mexico city, with flexibility and regular on-site presence required
why join?
this is an outstanding opportunity to join a global, well-established global manufacturing business with a strong market presence and ambitious growth plans. The role offers significant autonomy, leadership responsibility, and the chance to make a visible impact.
why this opportunity:
join a forward-thinking global organization where sustainability, innovation, and growth are at the core. You’ll have the autonomy to lead, the support to thrive, and the opportunity to shape the future of the business.
* competitive salary and bonus
* global career development opportunities
* remote flexibility with travel as needed
our client is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity.
please click on "apply " to submit your application for this position.
athena executive search is authorised to recruit this role on behalf of our client.