Director of Operations

Job Description
Coherent Corp. is the global leader in photonics, empowering innovators to shape the future with breakthrough technologies, from advanced materials to complete laser and optical systems.

Our solutions impact industrial, communications, electronics, and instrumentation markets, helping customers overcome complex challenges and unlock new possibilities. Headquartered in Saxonburg, Pennsylvania, we operate worldwide, offering an international, collaborative environment where research, manufacturing, and customer-focused teams drive innovation and deliver real-world results.

Location:
Luebeck |
Hybrid:
3 days on-site per week

Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Operations Director to lead and inspire a team of 350 skilled professionals, including engineers and PhD-level scientists. They are responsible for shaping the future of our operations by evaluating business strategies, identifying growth opportunities, and driving organisational change.

The successful candidate will foster a collaborative, high-performance culture, drive innovation through emerging technologies, and lead transformational initiatives that reinforce our position as a global leader.

If you are passionate about inspiring teams, delivering tangible impact, and turning bold ideas into reality, this is your chance to make a meaningful difference.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Drive strategic alignment and identify growth opportunities while managing risks.
• Lead business transformation initiatives and champion emerging technologies, AI, automation, and digitalisation.
• Ensure operational excellence in quality, cost, and delivery through continuous improvement.
• Oversee supply chain, production, planning, Quality, Manufacturing Engineering and inventory optimization.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and capital investments in alignment with business goals.
• Foster a high-performance, collaborative culture and lead organizational change initiatives.
• Develop talent pipelines, succession planning, and promote employee safety and wellbeing.
• Collaborate globally to share best practices and implement operational improvements

About You

• Master's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in operations management, ideally in high-tech manufacturing or the laser technology industry.
• Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams and managing large-scale operations.
• Strong expertise in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, results-driven environment.
• Knowledge of AI and emerging technologies, with experience applying them in manufacturing.
• Experience in data-driven decision-making and driving business transformation initiatives.
• Global mindset with adaptability across international teams and cultures.

CULTURE COMMITMENT
Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent:

I
ntegrity – Create an Environment of Trust

C
ollaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

A
ccountability – Own the Process and the Outcome

R
espect – Recognize the Value in Everyone

E
nthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Current employees who wish to apply should submit a cover letter detailing their interest in the position and how their skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.

Applications for this tole close COB on
Monday, 2 nd February 2026
.If you require any adjustment to the application process, please reach out to

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