Kyle Kress
Houston,
Summary
Driven and innovative professional with a strategic mindset and genuine passion for product development. Proficient in market analysis and user-centric design, utilizing agile methodologies and data-driven decision-making for optimal outcomes. Ready to spearhead product success and deliver impactful results.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
DIRECTOR, OEM PRODUCTS
PHILLIPS 66 LUBRICANTS
10.2021 - Current
- Managed global OEM product strategy and portfolio, including engine oils, EV fluids, and aviation lubricants, achieving over $180M in earnings.
- Directed pricing strategies and performance tracking, driving a 42% increase in EBITA over three years.
- Conducted market research and integrated customer feedback to successfully launch new product lines, including EV-specific solutions and a Group III base oil.
- Streamlined product portfolio by reducing underperforming SKUs, freeing up resources for high-growth areas, and optimizing working capital.
- Represented the company in industry committees, advocating for company and customer interests while advancing strategic business objectives.
- Enhanced team collaboration through regular communication, goal setting, and performance evaluations.
PRODUCT ENGINEER, AUTOMOTIVE AND AVIATION PRODUCTS
PHILLIPS 66 LUBRICANTS
03.2016 - 10.2021
- Managed the resolution of technical challenges and provided sales support for automotive and aviation products
- Expertise includes passenger car engine oils, automatic transmission fluid, automotive gear oils, aviation engine oils, and hydraulic fluids
- Managed export product registrations, facilitated OEM approvals in Detroit, Japan, and Europe, and oversaw licensing with the American Petroleum Institute
- Strategic Expansion of Product Line Focus: Realigned automotive and aviation product engineering to enhance market growth and profitability
- Successful Launch of Euro Product Line: Led the successful launch of a new Euro product line, increasing market coverage from 20% to 85% and boosting EBITA by 79%
- Aviation OEM Relationship Enhancement: Strengthened ties with aviation OEMs and the US Navy, resulting in an 89% increase in aviation product line EBITA
PRODUCT ENGINEER, INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
PHILLIPS 66 LUBRICANTS
2015 - 2016
- Resolved complex technical issues across diverse industrial product applications, including mining, power generation, grease, food grade, railroad, and metalworking
- Utilized ASTM test results to compile detailed technical reports
- Managed product approvals, field trials, and provided on-site technical support to customers
- Developed and managed over 300 technical data sheets, product labels, and collaborated on industrial product training initiatives
PRODUCT SPECIALIST
PHILLIPS 66 LUBRICANTS
02.2014 - 03.2015
- Managed customer inquiries via Phillips 66 technical hotline, providing product recommendations and support
- Collaborated with product engineers to address over 20,000 technical questions annually through various communication channels
- Assisted in technical training initiatives for Phillips 66 marketers and employees
TECHNICAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE
INDUSTRIAL OILS UNLIMITED
09.2012 - 02.2014
- Recruited to revitalize the Central Arkansas sales territory with a focus on technical problem-solving and customer service
- Collaborated with Fortune 500 companies and small businesses to optimize lubricant procurement and resolve complex lubrication issues
- Transformed Sales Territory: Boosted monthly sales from under $5,000 to $30,000 in 10 months, maintained a 36% profit margin, and expanded the customer base by 60+ new accounts
- Sales Performance Recognition: Won new account sales contests for two consecutive quarters, earning bonuses, salary raises, and increased commission
- Implemented Lubrication Education Program: Developed a program that reduced customer downtime by 35% and enhanced customer loyalty through improved service and education
MARKETING COORDINATOR
LUBRICATING SPECIALTIES COMPANY
01.2010 - 11.2011
- As a Marketing Coordinator, developed effective marketing strategies while managing a six-figure budget and collaborating with design agencies on promotional materials
- Conducted internal ISO quality audits and engaged with customers to gather insights and drive improvements
- Analyzed sales data to identify key customers and growth opportunities, and communicated business trends to executive management for strategic planning
- Worked closely with the VP of Operations and VP of Sales to streamline projects and enhance efficiency, and contributed to business planning and forecasting for raw material needs
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
Oklahoma State University
Skills
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
- Business planning
- Project management
- Team management
- Creativity and innovation
- Strategies and goals
Accomplishments
- Launched new revenue channels : Developed and patented a high-mileage engine oil booster.
- Enhanced operational resilience : Introduced innovative business continuity plans.
- Boosted market presence : Executed strategic product launches that elevated customer satisfaction.
Certification
- Society of Tribiologist and Lubrication Engineers- Certified Lubrication Specialist
- Society of Tribiologist and Lubrication Engineers- Oil Monitoring Analyst I
Timeline
DIRECTOR, OEM PRODUCTS
PHILLIPS 66 LUBRICANTS
10.2021 - Current
PRODUCT ENGINEER, AUTOMOTIVE AND AVIATION PRODUCTS
PHILLIPS 66 LUBRICANTS
03.2016 - 10.2021
PRODUCT SPECIALIST
PHILLIPS 66 LUBRICANTS
02.2014 - 03.2015
TECHNICAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE
INDUSTRIAL OILS UNLIMITED
09.2012 - 02.2014
MARKETING COORDINATOR
LUBRICATING SPECIALTIES COMPANY
01.2010 - 11.2011
PRODUCT ENGINEER, INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS
PHILLIPS 66 LUBRICANTS
2015 - 2016
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering
Oklahoma State University
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