Performance Improvement Director - Refining & Chemicals (Energy & Process Industries Practice)

At AlixPartners, we solve the most complex and critical challenges by moving quickly from analysis to action when it really matters; creating value that has a lasting impact on companies, their people, and the communities they serve. By understanding, respecting, and honoring the needs of our employees, clients, and communities, AlixPartners actively promotes an inclusive environment. We strongly believe in the value that diversity brings to our experiences and are committed to the perpetual enhancements of initiatives, policies, and practices. We hold ourselves accountable by providing the space for authenticity, growth, and equity for everyone.

AlixPartners has embraced a hybrid work model to provide flexibility and support our employees’ work-life integration. Our hybrid model combines a mix of in-person (at client site or AlixPartners office) and remote working. Travel is part of this position, but the frequency may vary based on client, team, and individual circumstances.

What you’ll do

Are you ready to build a future that exceeds your expectations? At AlixPartners, a leading global consulting firm, we help CEOs, boards, and owners tackle their most complex, high-value challenges—often those making front-page news and shaping Board Room agendas.

Our Energy & Process Industries (EPI) practice works with healthy, underperforming, and distressed companies across the refining, petrochemicals, and broader downstream value chain. We are seeking an experienced and entrepreneurial Director to lead and expand our Refining & Chemicals platform. This role requires a proven leader who can drive transformational client delivery, spearhead business development, and manage multiple high-stakes engagements simultaneously.

You will collaborate with C-level executives at national, integrated, and independent energy and chemicals companies, as well as institutional investors and portfolio firms. Drawing on your deep industry expertise, you’ll deliver measurable results across strategy, operations, capital, and performance.

As part of our collaborative, fast-paced team, you will work on urgent, high-impact situations—helping clients unlock value while pursuing your own professional development and growth aspirations.

• Lead end-to-end client delivery across strategy, operational improvement, cost transformation, and commercial performance in refining and petrochemicals

• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior executives and boards—especially in situations of urgency, complexity, or underperformance

• Oversee and coordinate multiple concurrent client engagements, ensuring excellence in delivery and outcomes across teams

• Drive business development efforts with both existing and new clients—developing relationships, shaping opportunities, and converting high-value mandates

• Build and develop the practice, including talent development, capability building, and cross-functional collaboration across AlixPartners globally

• Collaborate closely with peers in turnaround, restructuring, due diligence, and value creation to bring multi-disciplinary solutions to clients and investors

The Performance Improvement Director - Refining & Chemicals (Energy & Process Industries Practice) is a permanent role located in Riyadh and reports to the Partner.

This description is not designed to encompass a comprehensive listing of required activities, duties or responsibilities.

What you’ll need

• A minimum of 15 years of experience with a blend of strategic consulting and industry leadership in refining, petrochemicals, or downstream

• Experience may include time with:
- A top-tier strategy firm at Senior Manager or Principal level
- A global energy or chemicals operator in VP or senior functional/strategy roles
- An institutional investor or PE-backed portfolio company with a focus on value creation

• Demonstrated ability to lead both delivery and business development across complex client portfolios

• Deep understanding of global energy markets, value chains, and regional dynamics, with experience in the Middle East a strong plus

• Prior involvement in M&A, commercial diligence, or post-deal transformation is advantageous

• A track record of high-impact problem solving, boardroom presence, and driving results under pressure

• Strong academic credentials from a top university; advanced degree (MBA, MS)

• Advanced written communication skills experienced with preparing client ready documents as well as structuring and developing presentation materials

• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, database applications and other related tools

• Fluency in English is critical; Arabic knowledge would be advantageous

• High energy style, flexible and adaptive, with the ability to work well in a very fast paced environment

• Willingness to travel extensively

• You will hold valid residency for Saudi Arabia, or be able to obtain such, (administrative support will be provided by AlixPartners to obtain permits)

• Willingness to work outside of normal business hours, and in particular as unique projects/needs arise

• Must become familiar with, and promote and abide by, our Core Values as defined by the AlixPartners’ Code of Conduct and foster an inclusive environment with people at all levels of an organization

Office Location: Olaya Business District, Riyadh

Working hours: 8:30am – 5:30pm, Sunday to Thursday, hybrid model

The firm offers market-leading benefits that provide flexible options to support our employee’s needs, you can read more about the AlixPartners benefits here.

This advert will be removed once a suitable candidate has been identified.

AlixPartners is an equal opportunity employer.

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