Technical Service Manager - Refining Catalysts

About the role

BASF is looking for a Technical Service Manager for its FCC catalyst and additive portfolio in Abu Dhabi. The role delivers technical expertise and customer support, partnering with refinery customers, commercial teams, manufacturing, R&D and product management to optimise catalyst performance, solve complex operational challenges and strengthen customer relationships.

Key responsibilities

• Provide expert technical support for FCC catalyst and additive applications, including performance monitoring, troubleshooting and refinery unit optimisation
• Build and maintain customer relationships through technical reviews, site visits, performance assessments, start-ups and turnaround support
• Analyse refinery operating data and catalyst performance to identify improvements and recommend value-driven actions
• Lead the resolution of complex technical and operational challenges in line with customer and business objectives
• Work with commercial teams on customer retention, technical value selling and new business opportunities
• Partner with R&D, manufacturing, product management and technology teams to develop, evaluate and commercialise catalyst solutions
• Manage technical projects and customer deliverables with high standards of safety, quality and compliance
• Collaborate with licensors, laboratories, consultants and industry experts, and drive continuous improvement initiatives
• Represent BASF as a trusted technical advisor and industry expert in the refining sector

Required profile

• Bachelor's, Master's or PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science or a related technical discipline
• Minimum 5 years of direct FCC experience, gained in a refinery, licensor, catalyst supplier, additive manufacturer or a combination of these
• Proven ability to evaluate catalyst performance, analyse operating data, troubleshoot technical issues and give actionable recommendations
• Experience leading technical projects and working in cross-functional, customer-focused environments
• Willingness and ability to travel about 30% of working time

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of FCC catalyst technologies, refinery operations, process optimisation and refinery economics
• Business acumen connecting technical solutions to measurable customer value
• Excellent communication, presentation and stakeholder management skills
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and project management capabilities