Operations Manager

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Huntsman is seeking a Freeport Operations Manager supporting the Freeport Ethyleneamines Operations Division located in Freeport, Texas. This position will report to the Plant Manager.

This role provides strategic leadership to the Freeport Ethyleneamines Operations Team to ensure safe, reliable, and profitable operations across production trains and distribution. The Operations Manager guides day‑to‑day operations, leads a multidisciplinary team, drives operational excellence, ensures regulatory and process safety compliance, and aligns operational execution with site and business strategic objectives.

• Ensure safe and reliable plant operations through visible leadership, coaching, development, and recognition of team members.
• Oversee operation of the two Ethyleneamines trains, filtration plant, deep well, and Distribution team across 4‑shift Operations crews.
• Optimize production rates, ensure quality, and balance customer demand with maintenance, turnarounds, CAPEX development, and cost management.
• Lead a diverse team including Operations Supervisors, Production Specialists, Distribution Team Lead, OMC, Process Trainer, Analysts, and Filter Plant Specialists.
• Use key performance indicators to drive performance across safety, reliability, and cost.
• Partner with Technical and Engineering leaders to support reliability, bad actor management, project development, and MOC processes.
• Serve as Process Safety Leader—overseeing investigations, MOCs, recommended actions, and abnormal situation management.
• Lead change management, communication, and team empowerment initiatives.
• Oversee hiring, promotions, performance management, and development across Production teams.
• Manage annual Operations and Distribution budgets while influencing maintenance spend and turnaround planning.
• Coach and develop Production and Maintenance teams, embedding learning, causal thinking, and recognition into performance discussions.
• Stand in for the Plant Manager during emergencies or urgent site events.
• Support sitewide EHS initiatives and complete required training.
• Collaborate effectively across functions and contribute to Huntsman-wide goals.

• Bachelor’s degree in a science‑related field (Chemical or Mechanical Engineering preferred).
  In exceptional cases, deep operational experience with strong leadership and technical knowledge may substitute for degree requirements.

• 10+ years of experience in an industrial environment (petrochemical experience preferred).
• 5+ years of people leadership experience with direct reports and leadership of managers, supervisors, or team leads.

• Strong understanding of safety, environmental, and process safety requirements.
• Broad knowledge of petrochemical engineering principles and plant operations.
• High technical and analytical ability to diagnose operational/reliability challenges and make rapid, risk‑based decisions.
• Proficiency in management systems, work processes, and KPI‑driven performance.
• Ability to motivate, influence, and develop people at all levels.
• Strong communication skills and ability to navigate diverse perspectives across teams, corporate partners, and contractors.
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong business acumen related to manufacturing asset performance.
• Initiative, resilience, and effectiveness in high‑pressure or complex situations.
• Proficiency with internet tools, email, Microsoft applications, and willingness to adopt digital solutions that enhance safety and efficiency.

• Engineering degree (Chemical or Mechanical).
• Petrochemical operations leadership experience.
• Demonstrated success leading large operational teams or multi‑discipline functions.

• Frequent presence in plant operating areas is essential.
• Ability to work extended hours as needed to support operations or emergency events.
• Involves regular interaction with production units, distribution areas, contractors, and partners in a petrochemical environment.

Huntsman is proud to promote equal opportunity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic.