Job Description
Role Summary
As Director Operations Filtration Materials Europe (m/f/d), you will carry full operational responsibility for all European Filtration Materials (FM) production sites. You will lead and develop multi-site operations, ensure reliable and efficient production performance, and drive strategic development across our European manufacturing network.
In this key leadership role, you will enable operational excellence, lead transformation initiatives, optimize value streams, and ensure the successful execution of global manufacturing strategies. You will collaborate closely with global FM Operations, Production, Engineering, and all regional stakeholders to secure sustainable performance and long-term competitiveness.
Your Challenge
1. Full operational responsibility for all Filtration Materials production sites in Europe
2. Technical and disciplinary leadership of managers and operational teams across multiple locations
3. Ensure efficient, reliable, and safe plant operations in accordance with global production standards
4. Contribute to the strategic development of the Filtration Materials Business Unit and align operations with the global FM strategy
Plan, manage, and continuously optimize all European manufacturing processes and value streams
5. Ensure implementation and execution of corporate production standards (e.g., SQDC, Production Basics)
6. Achieve and exceed operational KPIs including safety, OEE, machine utilization, scrap rate, labor efficiency, customer complaints, and budget adherence
7. Lead Lean- and value-stream initiatives to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement
8. Initiate and manage cost-reduction, automation, and investment projects
9. Drive change processes within the European operations network and support organizational transformation
10. Lead and coordinate global process engineering projects, including process optimization and equipment procurement
11. Support global FM manufacturing locations through technical expertise and project leadership
Your Profile
12. Education: University degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or comparable technical discipline. Additional business qualification (e.g., MBA or equivalent further education) is an advantage.
13. Professional Experience: Several years of leadership experience in operations or manufacturing within an international industrial environmentProven success in leading multi-site operations or large-scale production environmentsDeep understanding of Filtration Materials (FM) or comparable material‑based production processesStrong background in process engineering, process development, and operational excellenceSolid experience in project management, including cross-functional and international initiatives
14. Expertise: Strong command of modern production methodologies, Lean principles, and value-stream optimizationExperience with SAP and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)Ability to work with operational KPIs, data analytics, and digital production toolsStrong communication skills with the ability to influence at all organizational levelsHigh level of ownership, strategic thinking, and results-driven mindsetProven ability to motivate, develop, and lead diverse teams across multiple locations
15. Language Skills: Fluent German and English (C1 level), both written and spoken, are mandatory for this role.
16. Personality: Strong leadership presence with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop teams across multiple sitesHigh level of resilience, ownership, and accountability in a complex international environmentExcellent communication and stakeholder‑management skills, with the ability to influence at all organizational levelsStrategic mindset paired with a hands‑on approach to daily operational challengesStructured, analytical, and solution‑oriented working styleStrong drive for continuous improvement, operational excellence, and performance deliveryAbility to lead transformation, manage change effectively, and foster a culture of collaboration and transparency
Diversity and inclusion are part of our DNA. We select solely based on the best talent. We therefore welcome applications from all individuals regardless of age, gender, origin, ethnicity, disability, or any other characteristics protected by law.
Please note that, for data protection reasons, we cannot accept applications via email. Kindly use our online application form instead.
Social Benefits
17. You work with a high degree of autonomy and decision-making freedom, with substantial ownership in a strategic leadership role.
18. Competitive, performance-based compensation and comprehensive social benefits aligned with the scope and responsibility of the position.
19. 40-hour workweek with flexible working hours and 30 days of vacation, supporting a balanced and professional work environment.
20. Hybrid working policy: for this role, on-site presence five days per week is required when not traveling, ensuring effective leadership, plant interaction, and operational alignment.
21. Everyone has Talent: our global talent management process supports your long-term professional development and leadership growth.
22. International exposure and opportunities for overseas assignments, offering direct collaboration within a global manufacturing network.
23. Attractive company pension plan in accordance with tariff regulations.
24. Childcare support, including access to holiday programs and cooperations with local daycare facilities.
25. A secure and future-oriented workplace in a company strongly committed to sustainability.
26. JobRad leasing option.
27. Extensive employee discounts through our Corporate Benefits Portal (e.g., travel, fashion, insurance, and more).
Are you full of ideas? Are you keen to take on responsibility and really achieve something? Then our doors are open to you. This company lives out its values, gives people the freedom to use their own initiative, and offers many development exciting opportunities and many exciting projects – all of which awaits you here.