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Job purpose
Short and concise statement of the primary role / function of the position within its organizational unit. Basically, answering the question: "Why does this position exist?”
The Global Head of Commercial Operations is responsible for leading the commercial management of Sulzer’s global claims portfolio, driving strong commercial and customer outcomes across complex, high-value projects within the oil & gas, industrial, and energy sectors. This is a senior, strategic and operational role leading a team of commercial contract managers, ensuring robust contract interpretation, commercial positioning, and delivery of business objectives, whilst operating at the interface between customers, EPC partners, and internal stakeholders. Working closely with the Global Head of Legal Excellence, the role combines strategic customer relationship management with hands-on engagement in complex commercial matters, requiring strong international experience, sound judgement, and a collaborative leadership approach within dynamic, fast-paced environments.
Main selling points of the job (for recruiting)
- Global leadership role at the heart of commercial operations: Lead the commercial management of a complex, high-value global claims portfolio, directly influencing customer outcomes, contractual positions, and business performance.
- Strategic and operational customer ownership: Operate at the interface with international customers and EPC partners, combining strategic relationship management with hands-on commercial and contractual engagement.
- Build and lead a high-performing commercial team: Shape, lead, and develop a team of commercial contract managers, driving performance, capability, and alignment to the Claims Management strategy.
- Partner with senior leadership to deliver business goals: Work closely with the Global Head of Legal Excellence, playing a key role in executing strategy and translating business priorities into operational delivery.
- Dynamic, high-impact environment with real autonomy: Thrive in a fast-paced, evolving global function requiring agility, sound judgement, and a hands-on approach—ideal for someone who enjoys ownership, complexity, and making a tangible impact.
Main accountabilities and tasks (include KPIs and ESH requirements, if available)
What is the job holder doing/expected to do and how is it done? Essential, permanent key responsibilities, measured by specific KPIs, as applicable (e.g. financial, production KPIs, project milestones etc.)
This role carries direct accountability for delivering measurable Contribution and EBITDA improvement through disciplined, data-driven claims management.
Global Claims Portfolio Management
Lead and manage the full global claims portfolio, ensuring effective handling of complex, high-value and cross-border claims, delivering strong financial outcomes and reduction in claim exposure. Direct line management responsiblity for the global aftersales warranty team.
Commercial Strategy & Contractual Positioning
Define and drive commercial strategies and contractual positions, including negotiation approach, settlement decisions, and recovery opportunities from customers, EPCs, and suppliers.
Customer & EPC Relationship Management
Own senior customer and EPC relationships, acting as the primary commercial interface to resolve escalated claims while maintaining long-term customer trust and value.
Team Leadership & Performance Management
Lead, develop, and manage a global team of commercial contract managers, driving accountability, capability, and delivery against business objectives and KPIs.
Cross-Functional Alignment & Integration
Align Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Legal, Finance, and Operations to ensure timely and effective claim resolution.
Technical to Commercial Translation
Ensure effective linkage between RCFA outputs and commercial decisions, translating technical findings into robust commercial contractual and financial positions.
Performance Management & EBITDA Delivery
Deliver performance against KPI framework, contributing to EBITDA through claims cost reduction, recovery success, resolution efficiency, and customer outcome quality.
Reporting & Performance Governance
Establish a robust monthly reporting cadence with clear visibility of financial impact, KPIs, risks, trends, and corrective actions.
Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence
Drive continuous improvement across the claims portfolio by identifying trends, reducing repeat issues, and enhancing commercial and operational practices.
Medical insurance for self and family
Company sponsored transportation facility during week days
Sulzer is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in the strength of a diverse workforce and are committed to offering an inclusive work environment.
We are proud to be recognized as a Top Employer 2026 in Brazil, Canada, China, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Mexico, Switzerland, South Africa, the UK and the USA.
