Building on a strong legacy of almost 150 years, we are leading the way to reimagine and improve life every day. Today and for generations to come. Through our innovative and sustainable brands and technologies, across our teams around the world.
Henkel holds leading positions in both industrial and consumer businesses: Our portfolio includes well-known hair care products, laundry detergents, fabric softeners as well as adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings.
Global Head of Circularity (d/f/m)
Apply for this role
Global Head of Circularity (d/f/m)
Apply for this role
About this Position
The Global Head of Circularity leads the strategic development and implementation of circular economy initiatives across the organization. This role ensures integration of circularity principles into business operations, data systems, and external engagement, driving measurable impact and alignment with sustainability goals.
What you´ll do
- Define and champion a forward-looking Circular Economy strategy that reflects global trends, regulatory developments, and stakeholder expectations. Ensure alignment with company-wide sustainability goals and business priorities
- Work hand-in-hand with Business Units to translate strategy into actionable roadmaps. Guide cross-functional teams in implementing circularity principles in product design, supply chain, and operations. Foster a shared understanding of circularity across functions and geographies
- Partner closely with the Data Team to embed circularity standards into data architecture, accounting systems, and analytics. Co-lead initiatives to improve data quality, transparency, and reporting capabilities. Ensure that data supports both strategic decision-making and external disclosures
- Establish and oversee governance frameworks for circularity and EPR. Ensure consistent application of standards and policies across the organization, leveraging internal governance mechanisms and communication platforms
- Serve as the CSO’s strategic advisor on circularity. Provide insights and briefings to the Board, Sustainability Council, and executive committees to support informed decision-making
- Represent the company in global forums such as the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, WBCSD, WEF, and UN Global Treaty discussions. Translate global intelligence into actionable insights for internal stakeholders
- Lead a team of up to four people, based in different locations as well as an extended team in Global Business Services (GBS+)
- Develop and deliver internal training programs on circularity, EPR, and sustainable product design. Build a high-performing team of experts and consultants to scale impact
What makes you a good fit
- Master’s degree in Sustainability, Engineering, Material Science, Supply Chain, or a related field
- Minimum of 15 years of experience in sustainability, with deep expertise in circular economy, resource management and ideally packaging and end-of-life product strategies
- Proven ability to work across complex, matrixed organizations and lead cross-functional collaboration with Business Units and data teams
- Strong knowledge of environmental and producer responsibility policy, especially in Europe, with exposure to international markets (e.g., US, Asia)
- Exceptional communication and engagement skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable guidance for diverse audiences
- Fluent in German and English; additional languages are a plus
Some perks of joining Henkel
- Flexible work scheme with flexible hours, hybrid work model, and work from anywhere policy for up to 30 days per year
- Diverse national and international growth opportunities
- Global wellbeing standards with health and preventive care programs
- Gender-neutral parental leave for a minimum of 8 weeks
- Employee Share Plan with voluntary investment and Henkel matching shares
- Company Pension Plan 100% financed by Henkel
- MEGA Preventive Health Insurance
- CareFlex Supplementary Care Insurance
- Mobility offer: My Henkel Bike and Jobticket
At Henkel, we come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe the uniqueness of all our employees is the power in us. Become part of the team and bring your uniqueness to us! We welcome all applications across different genders, origins, cultures, religions, sexual orientations, generations and disabilities. If there are any specific accommodations or adjustments you require for the interview process or your on-site appointment, please inform us, and we'll do our best to accommodate your requests.
JOB ID: 25084476
Job Locations: Germany, North Rhine Westphalia, Düsseldorf
Contact information for application-related questions: Recruitment-Germany@henkel.com
Please do not use this email address for sending your application or CV. To apply, please click on the "Apply for this role" button below. Applications sent via e-mail will not be accepted.
Application Deadline: As long as the vacancy is listed on our Career Site, we are happy to receive your application
Job-Center: If you have an application already, you can create or log in to your account here to check the status of your application. In case of new account creation, please use your email address that you applied with.
About Henkel
FAQ
I am interested in several jobs. Can I apply for multiple positions at the same time?
Yes – simply fill out your profile in our online application system. Once your online profile is complete, you can apply for multiple positions.
The job offer is written in English – should I write my application in English as well?
Yes, please. As Henkel is an international company you will be working with colleagues from all over the world and English is our official company language. Generally, the ‘rule’ is: please write the application in the same language as the job ad.
Do I get feedback during the application process about the state of my application?
Each position that we have open with Henkel is unique, and finding the right candidate is important for both the hired candidate as well as for Henkel. We want to make sure that both the candidate and the company are a good fit for each other. We will provide feedback to the candidates throughout the entire process.
Can employees move between business areas and/or to a different country?
Yes, in fact it is an expectation within Henkel that our talent is flexible and mobile. This helps to support the company on a broad, global level.
Our “Triple Two” philosophy promotes this expectation, by allowing you to work in at least two different roles, in two different business areas and two different countries. The reason behind this philosophy is that we believe working in different roles, business units and functions is good for your personal development and improves your understanding of Henkel as a global company.
Here you will get further information on our training programs.
Whom do I contact if I have questions concerning my application?
Our recruiting team will help you with all requests regarding your application. Contact the team here.