Location

This role will be on-site, in our office in Enschede, The Netherlands.

About us

SuperLight Photonics is a fast-growing deep-tech company that develops breakthrough broadband light sources on a chip (PIC). Our technology brings the performance of bulky laboratory lasers into a compact, efficient, and scalable form, enabling new applications in OCT imaging and spectroscopy.

As a small but rapidly growing organization, we value creativity, initiative, and collaboration. Our team of seasoned professionals is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology, and we are seeking a like-minded individual to join us.

About the Head of Operations role

As we transition from development to volume production, we are looking for an experienced Head of Operations to help scale our products from prototype to volume production, and strengthen our project management capabilities.

You will take ownership of the operational backbone of the company, managing and developing key suppliers, and oversee our product assembly, test, pack and ship. You will work closely with engineering, quality, and commercial teams to ensure reliable execution across the supply chain while preparing the organization for future growth and increased production volumes.

In this role, you will report directly to the CCO.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate manufacturing activities with photonic foundries, packaging partners and other key suppliers to ensure lead time, quality and cost targets are met
• Develop and maintain production planning, forecasting, and other supply chain processes
• Drive operational readiness for product industrialization and volume scaling
• Manage procurement and monitor supplier performance and implement continuous improvement initiatives for critical components and manufacturing activities
• Coordinate cross-functional projects involving engineering, manufacturing, quality, and external partners
• Establish operational KPIs, reporting structures, and scalable processes
• Support quality management and activities where required

What we are looking for

• Master's or PhD degree in Physics, Photonics, Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, or a related technical field
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in photonics, semiconductor, automotive, or a comparable advanced manufacturing industry
• Proven experience managing suppliers such as foundries, contract manufacturers, and high tech (photonic) components
• Understanding of supply chain management, procurement, planning, and logistic processes
• Strong project management skills with the ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders simultaneously
• Experience with scaling manufacturing operations in a startup or scaleup environment
• Experience with quality systems, process qualification and control concepts, supplier auditing
• Excellent communication skills in English and Dutch and ability to work across technical and business teams
• Positive, can-do attitude
• Comfortable to work in a fast-paced environment
• The job requires that the candidate lives in or close to Enschede, The Netherlands

What we offer

• Competitive salary: reflecting your experience and qualifications
• Innovation culture: the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology
• Impact: direct influence on the operational strategy and manufacturing roadmap
• Professional growth: continuous learning and development within a supportive team
• Flexible work environment: we value balance and offer flexibility to meet individual needs
• Opportunity to grow your career alongside us in a rapidly growing company

Join us in shaping the future of photonics and contributing to our continued success in the global market. If you enjoy building operational excellence, managing complex manufacturing ecosystems, and turning innovative technology into scalable products, we would love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and cover letter to elly.schietse@superlightphotonics.com.

SuperLight Photonics is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or disability.

SuperLight Photonics only works with pre-qualified recruitment agencies.