Strategy & Transformation Manager

The organisation

Nobian is a significant player in the European chemical sector, with an integrated value chain that begins with salt mining and proceeds through the transformation of salt into chlorine, caustic soda, hydrogen, and other chlorinated derivatives (primarily through electrolysis). Nobian is also increasingly involved in energy transition efforts. For instance, the company is developing large-scale energy storage solutions using salt caverns, partnering with Vulcan Energy to enter the battery market, and establishing a position in the green hydrogen market through its HyCC joint venture.

Nobian, headquartered in Amersfoort, has approximately 1,600 full-time employees spread across seven locations in the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany. With an annual revenue of over 2 billion euros, the company has demonstrated resilience during recent crises such as Covid and the energy crisis. Nobian is owned by investors Carlyle and GI, and has been operating independently since its spin-out from Nouryon in 2021.

Nobian's production processes are highly energy-intensive, but the company is working to minimize its environmental impact through its "Grow Greener Together" strategy. The company aims to become one of Europe's most sustainable chemical companies, with clear targets to achieve this goal. By 2040, Nobian plans to be carbon-neutral (in scope 1 and 2) and powered entirely by renewable energy. The company is even collaborating with the Dutch government to explore options for achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 (in scope 1) in the Netherlands.

Shaping and executing the strategic agenda

Since becoming a standalone company in 2021, Nobian’s leadership has been refining and executing its strategic agenda. The company faces several challenges, such as securing access to high-quality salt in the face of increasingly complex regulations and societal opposition to mining in the Netherlands. Nobian also aims to contribute to Europe’s hydrogen energy ambitions by leveraging its expertise in electrolysis and salt cavern storage, while simultaneously reducing its environmental footprint through energy-saving initiatives and cleaner energy sources. Additionally, the company must navigate the recent surge in energy costs and strategically allocate capital for growth based on customer demand and existing sites.

While the contours of Nobian's strategic agenda have emerged over the past year, they require constant refinement and further exploration. As a result, Nobian is seeking to strengthen its technical and industry expertise with consulting capabilities to help structure and execute its plans rigorously and effectively.

The position

Nobian is a PE-owned European market leader in the production of salt, essential chemicals, and energy for industry, varying from construction and cleaning to pharmaceuticals and water treatment. The company faces important strategic questions on topics such as realizing its ambitious sustainability agenda, navigating the current high-energy-cost market conditions, and identifying M&A opportunities. This will be the bread and butter of the Strategy & Transformation Manager.

Tasks & responsibilities

Nobian is currently growing its strategy team – consisting of top tier strategy consultants – with an additional Strategy & Transformation Manager. The Strategy & Transformation Manager will be an in-house strategic powerhouse with a keen eye for execution. They will immediately take ownership of approximately two to three key strategic topics and work together with the business to gather data and prepare decision making. The classic strategy consulting toolkit will be invaluable in this effort: excellent structuring, prioritization, and convincing communication are key. The Strategy & Transformation Manager will work together with several stakeholders from the company (e.g., production, sales or R&D), under the guidance of the Director of Strategy & Transformation, former Principal at BCG.

‘Every week we spend two to three hours with the CEO and other members of the Nobian Leadership Team to discuss the strategic agenda. The Strategy & Transformation Manager will join in on these meetings. This will not only give them the opportunity to add tremendous value by exploring strategic possibilities for Nobian, but also gain high exposure to the company’s leadership.’ – Stef van Hout, Director of Strategy & Transformation at Nobian

This role represents a solid growth opportunity for an experienced consultant with a strong background in strategy. This person will actively spearhead and deliver several high-priority projects and get to know both Nobian and its leadership well. The ideal candidate may be at consultant / associate level or at team leader / engagement manager level; their scope and responsibilities will be tailored to fit background and experience. In time, the Strategy & Transformation Manager may expect a next step within the business (on the production or commercial side), or potentially be groomed as the future Director of Strategy & Transformation. Opportunities within other portfolio companies of Carlyle are also in the realm of possibilities.  

Candidate profile*

• >5 years’ experience in consulting
• With a focus on strategy
• Excellent analytical and structuring skills
• Strong presenter (written and spoken)

* Research shows that while male candidates feel confident enough to apply when they meet about 60% of the requirements, female candidates only apply when they tick every box. So if this role has your name on it, but you’re not sure about the criteria, we still want to hear from you.

Interested?

You can apply to this position by using the link below. Nobian is working with Top of Minds to fill this vacancy.