Director of Cell Operations

Head / Director of Cell Operations – Lithium-Ion Battery Manufacturing

We are supporting an innovative lithium-ion battery technology company with the appointment of a Head / Director of Cell Operations to play a critical role in the launch and ramp-up of a new battery cell manufacturing facility.

This is a hands-on leadership role for an experienced battery manufacturing professional who understands what it takes to move lithium-ion cell production equipment through commissioning, optimisation and into stable, high-quality production.

The successful individual will take ownership of the end-to-end performance of the cell manufacturing equipment, covering processes including electrode handling and notching, stacking, welding, pouch formation and sealing, electrolyte filling, formation and final inspection.

A key part of the role will be driving performance across OEE, throughput, yield and scrap while working closely with process engineering, automation, maintenance and quality teams.

The position will also involve significant interaction with equipment suppliers and material partners, supporting FAT, SAT and commissioning activity, equipment qualification, process optimisation, root-cause analysis and continuous improvement. The successful person will be expected to take a direct, hands-on approach when manufacturing or equipment issues arise and to help build robust processes, recipes and operating standards as the facility ramps.

We are particularly interested in speaking with candidates who have:

• Proven experience within lithium-ion cell manufacturing
• Strong hands-on experience with battery cell manufacturing equipment and process troubleshooting
• Experience commissioning, launching or ramping cell manufacturing lines
• Experience working directly with equipment and materials suppliers
• Pouch cell manufacturing experience would be highly advantageous, particularly where combined with FAT/SAT, semi-automated manufacturing lines and production ramp-up experience.

This is an opportunity to have a significant influence on the establishment and growth of a new North American lithium-ion cell manufacturing operation at an important stage of its development.