Head of Operations

Head of Operations & ManufacturingLocation: Geel, Antwerp, Belgium Reports to: CEO Contract: Full-time, permanentAbout CERcuitsCERcuits is an established, innovative provider of ceramic electronic circuits (PCB) and advanced packaging solutions. Our products are used by a broad range of customers in photonics, microelectronics, power, and other high-tech sectors, who value our quality, speed, and service.We are now entering a new phase of growth, focusing on expanding our production capacity and further professionalizing our operations. We aim to continue supporting our existing customers while preparing for higher-volume production and new markets.FunctionAs the Head of Operations & Manufacturing, you will be responsible for the daily management and further development of our operational activities: production, quality, and procurement. You will play a key role in achieving our growth ambitions, including ISO certification(s), cost and scrap reduction, reliable lead times, and increased capacity on both our high-mix/low-volume and new mass production lines.We are seeking someone with a strong background in manufacturing—someone who understands how a production line or plant is run and who thrives in a hands-on environment. While CERcuits is still a relatively small company of roughly 10 people, our ambition is to build a larger operation where production excellence is central.You do not need to be a technical specialist, but you should have sufficient technical insight to effectively manage a team that includes a Process Manager, and to collaborate with the R&D team for implementing new developments into operations. You are able to translate technical developments into robust and efficient operational processes and manage them.Main Responsibilities• Lead and optimize all production activities, including both the high-mix/low-volume line and the new mass production line.• Supervise and develop your growing team of four people, to ensure process excellence and continuous improvement throughout operations.• Implement and improve process standards, visual management, and data-driven performance management to reduce cost, scrap, and lead time, and to increase throughput.• Drive capacity increases through practical improvements, layout optimization, maintenance strategy, and automation, in line with our "factory of the future" approach.• Build and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS); achieve and sustain ISO 9001 certification and adopt relevant industry standards.• Set up in-process controls, end-of-line inspection, and continuous improvement based on data.• Develop and manage procurement and supply chain: qualify suppliers, negotiate terms, and implement cost-reduction programs without compromising quality or lead times.• Implement planning and inventory control (MRP/ERP) to ensure reliable delivery performance.• Work closely with the R&D team to ensure the effective transfer and implementation of new product and process developments into operations.• Build and coach the operations team (production, quality, procurement, process management); encourage ownership and collaboration across departments.• Contribute to the annual operating plan, investment proposals, and reporting to the management team and board.Profile• At least 10 years' experience in manufacturing operations (electronics, advanced packaging, PCB/ceramics, precision processes, or similar sectors like medical devices, automotive, aerospace, etc.).• Demonstrated experience in scaling production from prototype/low-volume to stable medium/high-volume.• Experience with ISO-certified QMS (ISO 9001 required; IPC standards are a plus).• Familiar with Lean/Six Sigma, root cause analysis, PFMEA/Control Plans, SPC, and continuous improvement.• Experience with supplier development, cost reduction, and material strategy; comfortable with ERP/MRP systems.• Leadership style that combines presence on the shop floor with a structured and pragmatic approach.• Able to work well with technical teams and other departments, especially R&D.• Good command of English; knowledge of Dutch/French/German is an advantage.• Living within +/- 1 hour drive from Geel What We Offer• A key role in a growing company with a strong reputation and ambitious plans.• The opportunity to shape the future of CERcuits' operations and organization.• A collaborative and pragmatic working environment, with short decision lines.• Competitive salary and benefits, in line with experience and impact.• Workplace in Geel, with occasional travel to suppliers or customers.