Director, Operations

Job Description*This is a Berlin-based role and requires onsite presence 4-5 days / weekVention is seeking a strategic and hands-on leader to establish, scale, and integrate our European operations, supply chain, and quality systems from our hub in Berlin, Germany. Reporting directly to the Chief Supply Chain Officer (CSCO), this role combines strategic leadership with active, on-the-ground execution. You will leverage Vention’s existing global processes, systems, and playbooks—adapting, right-sizing, and localizing them for the European context—to ensure fast, reliable, and high-quality performance. Your mission: scale quickly, operate efficiently, and deliver with excellence. You will lead all regional supply chain, logistics, quality, and fulfillment activities while building a cohesive organization that integrates seamlessly with Vention’s global operations.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic & Operational LeadershipLead the launch and scale-up of Vention’s EMEA operations, supply chain, and quality organization. Implement existing global systems and standards (ERP, MRP, WMS, QMS), adapting and optimizing them for regional requirements and scale. Ensure full alignment with global processes while introducing pragmatic adaptations that improve speed and efficiency. Serve as the single point of accountability for EMEA performance across quality, cost, and delivery. Balance long-term strategic development with hands-on, day-to-day execution.Supply Chain & LogisticsEstablish and manage the regional supply chain network, including sourcing, logistics, and fulfillment partners. Lead inbound, outbound, and last-mile logistics with focus on reliability, cost, and speed. Manage supplier qualification, performance, and continuous improvement, ensuring reliability and scalability. Drive cost optimization and delivery performance while maintaining strong supplier relationships. Leverage digital tools and analytics to improve material visibility and decision-making.Operations & FulfillmentSet up and optimize EMEA fulfillment, assembly, and kitting operations based on global operational standards.Deploy Lean and standardized work systems to achieve repeatable, fast, and scalable execution. Oversee site layout, flow design, and day-to-day performance at the Berlin hub and future EMEA sites. Lead major operational projects, including facility setup, partner transitions, and process integration.Quality LeadershipDeploy and localize Vention’s global Quality Management System (QMS) to the European network.Ensure supplier, process, and customer quality align with company standards and compliance requirements. Personally lead containment, root cause analysis, and corrective actions where needed. Build a proactive, prevention-focused culture of quality at the source.Partner with global peers to standardize inspection, traceability, and continuous improvement initiatives.Planning & InventoryIntegrate global planning practices while adapting to European supply and demand realities. Optimize inventory strategy across EMEA to balance responsiveness, accuracy, and working capital. Ensure data integrity and visibility through system-driven controls and dashboards. Partner with global Planning and Logistics to maintain end-to-end synchronization.Infrastructure & ExpansionLead key site expansion and setup projects, from lease negotiation to operational readiness. Manage facility-related vendors and contracts (security, utilities, maintenance, etc.). Ensure operational, quality, and safety compliance across all EMEA facilities.People & CultureHire, develop, and empower a Berlin-based team spanning supply chain, operations, and quality. Model hands-on leadership—directly engaging in problem solving, system setup, and process improvement. Build a culture of speed, ownership, and continuous improvement. Act as a strong bridge between EMEA and global leadership, ensuring clarity, alignment, and shared best practices.QualificationsWhat You Bring to the TableWe’re looking for skills, intellect, and experiences that will help you succeed in this role but we also know that various profiles (not only the one described below) could be successful. If you’re excited about what you read and think you’d be a great fit, we encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet every single qualification.10+ years of progressive experience in supply chain, operations, logistics and/or quality, including 5+ years in leadership roles.Proven experience deploying and adapting global processes and systems to regional environments.Strong expertise in logistics, inventory management, supplier development, and quality management.Demonstrated success in scaling organizations rapidly while maintaining quality and control.Deep understanding of Lean, QMS/ISO systems, and continuous improvement methodologies.Proficiency with ERP, MRP, and WMS systems; data-driven and process-oriented mindset.Experience in automation, industrial equipment, or high-mix, low-volume manufacturing preferred.Fluent in German and English; additional European languages are assets.A builder and operator who combines strategy with hands-on execution—capable of scaling fast while maintaining excellence.Additional InformationWhat we OfferProfessional Development: Be part of our growth journey – with real opportunities for advancement and career development.Hybrid Work: Take advantage of our hybrid work model, with the option to work from home on selected days each week.Team Events: Regular team events that promote collaboration and strengthen team spirit.Central Location: Our office is located in the heart of Berlin – easily accessible and surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and shops.Benefits:Choice between a subsidized public transport (ÖPNV) ticket or digital shopping vouchersOptional participation in our company pension plan (bAV)Community Engagement: Two paid days per year for volunteer work – so you can give something back to your community.What to Expect in Your InterviewInitial CallMeet the TeamCase or take-home interviewDecision & OfferWe’re committed to making every step of the process inclusive and accessible. If you require accommodations at any stage, please let us know, we’ll ensure you have what you need to succeed.Professional Growth & DevelopmentVention believes strongly in promotion from within. For this reason, we structured a comprehensive professional development program that elevate high-performing individuals who deeply understand the inner workings of Vention. This program encompasses:In-house coaching program with former industry executives working with small cohort of emerging leadersQuarterly management training on topics ranging from “Giving & Receiving Feedback, to Building high-performing teams, to "Developing your own Leadership model”Quarterly World-Class Speaker Series featuring industry leaders sharing their perspective and lessons learned as they build their function and businessDedicated professional development channels sponsored by the Executive team to foster continuous professional learningBook allocation program to further your knowledge in your domain of expertise or any business leadership topicsDiversity, Inclusion & Belonging at VentionWhen you join Vention, you join a team of professionals with diverse experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives. Together, we’re building a workplace where everyone belongs, feels valued, and can achieve extraordinary results.We celebrate differences in ideas, in experiences, and in people. Our initiatives in gender equity, career growth, and leadership development are designed to create real opportunities for everyone to thrive.Vention’s cultureVention is an uplifting environment for high achievers. Thinking that Vention’s culture would keep you energized? See our full culture guide here.