Head of Global Operations, Laser Systems

Head of Global Operations, Laser Systems

Base pay range: $/yr - $/yr.

The Head of Global Operations for the Global Laser Systems Business Unit (BU) is a critical member of the BU leadership team reporting to the SVP of Global Laser Systems and responsible for driving operational excellence, execution consistency, and scalability across IPG Photonics Systems’ global operations network. This role provides end-to-end operational leadership for the production, assembly, integration, and delivery of complex laser systems, with a strong focus on reducing operational variability, improving on-time delivery, and strengthening execution discipline across sites.

The Head of Global Operations aligns cross-functional initiatives across corporate functions and the Global Systems BU to translate operations strategy into tangible business outcomes.

• Own end-to-end operations for Global Laser Systems, including manufacturing, system assembly, integration, test, and delivery.
• Lead operational excellence across multiple sites in North America and Europe.
• Drive reduction of variability in manufacturing, planning, and supply chain processes.
• Translate business objectives into clear operational roadmaps and execution plans.
• Provide leadership for the integrated global supply chain, including procurement, logistics, inventory strategy, and supplier performance.
• Partner with Quality to ensure ISO compliance and embed quality into operational processes.
• Support new product introductions and technology transfers with a focus on manufacturability and repeatability.
• Develop capacity and capability plans aligned with demand and delivery commitments.
• Build, lead, and develop high-performing operations teams across regions.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive operations leadership experience in high-tech or industrial manufacturing environments.
• Proven track record of reducing variability and improving on-time delivery performance.
• Experience with complex system integration and high-mix, low-volume or project-based manufacturing environments.
• Strong working knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and other operational excellence systems.
• Excellent cross-functional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to lead effectively in a global, matrixed organization.
• Experience leading S&OP and operational transformations a plus.
• German language skills a plus.

This role is critical to supporting the rapid growth of the IPG Global Laser Systems business. By reducing variability, strengthening operational discipline, and scaling best practices across global sites, the Head of Global Operations will directly enable customer satisfaction and profitable growth.

• Travel:
  Approximately 30% domestic and international.

Director

Full-time

Other

Appliances, Electrical, and Electronics Manufacturing