Job Description

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.

Key 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.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s preferred
• 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.
• Experience leading S&OP and operational transformations a plus.
• German language skills a plus.

Additional Information

• Travel: Approximately 30% domestic and international
• This role can be located in Marlborough, MA or Fridley, MN