Operations Director – Neuchâtel Operations Center

Focuslight Technologies | Full-time | Permanent Position

We are seeking an experienced Operations Director to lead the operational performance and organizational development of our Neuchâtel Operations Center. This role requires a hands-on industrial leader with a global mindset, strong execution capabilities, and the ability to build a high-performing local organization within an international operating environment.

Beyond day-to-day operational management, the successful candidate will serve as a key link between Corporate, international manufacturing sites, and the local Neuchâtel organization. With strong cross-cultural leadership capabilities, the role will drive global alignment and collaboration while building local credibility, influence, and leadership capability to strengthen the site's operational performance and long‑term development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations of the Neuchâtel Operations Center, ensuring delivery against business objectives.
• Define and execute the site's operational strategy and continuous improvement agenda.
• Own operational performance, including delivery, quality, efficiency, and cost management.
• Lead, develop, and inspire a multicultural team, strengthening local leadership capabilities and building a sustainable talent pipeline.
• Champion the Focuslight culture and philosophy, lead by example and ensure company values and principles are embedded in daily operations and collaboration with global teams.
• Ensure compliance with applicable local regulations and company policies.

Qualifications & Experience

• At least 10 years of experience in industrial operations or manufacturing, including at least 5 years in a managerial or leadership role. Proven experience in industrial operations management, including leadership responsibility for operational performance.
• Bachelor's degree or above in Engineering, Industrial Management, Manufacturing, or a related discipline.
• Strong global mindset, hands‑on execution, and demonstrated ability to lead operational transformation and build local organizational influence.
• Experience in a multinational industrial company with multi‑site operations and cross‑cultural collaboration is strongly preferred.
• Experience in photonics, precision optics, semiconductors, microtechnology, or other high‑precision manufacturing industries is an advantage.
• Fluent in both French and English is mandatory.
• Must be based in Neuchâtel, Switzerland.