Head of Global Operations, Laser Systems Business Unit

IPG Photonics • Marlborough, MA

1d

About The Position

IPG Photonics is a global leader in fiber laser technology where advanced
engineering, disciplined execution, and scale converge. Known for its vertically
integrated model and deep technical capability, IPG gives leaders real authority
to influence how products move from design through delivery. The Global Laser
Systems business operates across North America and Europe at the center of
innovation and execution, translating advanced technologies into complex systems
for customers worldwide. IPG values clear ownership, disciplined execution, and
leaders who thrive on solving complex challenges and delivering measurable
impact.

The Head of Global Operations for the Global Laser Systems Business Unit (BU) is
a key member of the BU leadership team, reporting to the SVP of Global Laser
Systems. This role is responsible for driving operational excellence, execution
consistency, and scalability across IPG Photonics Systems’ global operations
network, and is critical to supporting the continued growth of the Global Laser
Systems business.

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 global 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. By standardizing processes, scaling best practices, and reinforcing
operational rigor, this leader will directly enable customer satisfaction,
operational resilience, and profitable growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s preferred
• Experience leading S&OP and operational transformations a plus.
• German language skills a plus.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean / Six Sigma methodologies.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees