About the Role
Our client is looking for an exceptionally driven and motivated Product Line Director to lead the strategic market positioning of our proprietary technology and drive partnership strategies across diverse value chains.
This role requires a strong foundation in technology licensing and integrated process technologies, particularly within the clean energy or chemical processing sectors.
You’ll collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Technology, and Commercial teams to define and execute go-to-market strategies, support technology improvement efforts, and build strategic alliances. From day one, you’ll have the opportunity to make a tangible impact in a mission-led, innovative company operating at the forefront of the energy transition.
Position Overview
The Product Line Director will be responsible for leading the technology licensing portfolio, driving strategic market positioning, managing intellectual property (IP), and securing industry partnerships that align with the company’s expansion strategy. The role requires strong commercial acumen, deep technical understanding, and the ability to synthesize complex industry data into clear and actionable strategies.
Key Responsibilities
Technology Portfolio - Management & Strategic Market Positioning
* Lead and manage clients' technology licensing portfolio
* Analyse SAF industry trends proactively, identifying early shifts in HEFA, E-fuels, and PtL (Power-to-Liquid) technologies for strategic positioning.
* Define and execute market entry strategies for novel technologies, ensuring pre-emptive adaptation to industry shifts.
* Simplify complex industry data into clear business strategies and positioning frameworks.
* Develop customer screening strategies specifically for licensing—not just technology commercialization or project development.
* Evaluate and refine pricing, licensing agreements, and commercial terms to enhance market adoption.
Intellectual Property (IP) & Freedom-to-Operate (FTO) Management
* Oversee and protect clients’ IP portfolio, ensuring patents, proprietary technology, and competitive advantage are secured.
* Conduct competitive landscape assessments, ensuring freedom-to-operate (FTO) compliance.
* Implement strategies for cost-effective IP management while maintaining innovation and market leadership.
Geographical Market Focus
* Align geographical market strategies with clients' business priorities, ensuring correct prioritization of US, Asia, and Europe.
* Develop localized licensing models that adapt to regional regulations, incentives, and government mandates.
Partner Selection & Strategic Collaboration
* Independently evaluate and select technology partners, ensuring synergy, cost-effectiveness, and market differentiation.
* Navigate partnerships in cost-sensitive markets (China, India) confidently, ensuring balanced collaboration strategies.
* Lead partner negotiations, ensuring technology integration aligns with clients’ commercial objectives.
Branding, Product Positioning & Commercial Strategy
* Lead product rebranding initiatives, ensuring strong differentiation from competitors through targeted campaigns.
* Develop and execute market storytelling initiatives, positioning client as the premier SAF technology provider.
* Ensure licensing models align with evolving industry needs, creating long-term revenue streams.
About You
* Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or a related technical discipline; MBA desirable.
* Minimum of 7 years’ experience in product marketing, commercialization, or technology strategy within the clean energy, integrated technology (ideally catalyst), or chemical processing industries.
* Demonstrated experience in technology licensing and commercialization of catalyst-based systems or process technologies.
* Good understanding of intellectual property (IP) management, including licensing models, patent landscapes, and freedom to operate (FTO) considerations.
* Deep familiarity with market research, go-to-market strategy, pricing models, and value chain analysis.
* Skilled in building strategic partnerships and navigating complex B2B ecosystems.
* Excellent communicator and presenter, capable of influencing across technical and commercial functions.
* Strong analytical thinking and a data-driven approach to decision-making.
* Self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365; experience with CRM, PLM, or digital marketing tools is a plus.