Chief Operating Officer - EIT Manufacturing ASBL

Chief Operating Officer - EIT Manufacturing ASBL

About EIT Manufacturing: EIT Manufacturing is an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union. EIT Manufacturing is the leading pan-European community fostering innovation in manufacturing through a unique active ecosystem. With 170 partners, EIT Manufacturing connects businesses, startups, academia and research institutions to make innovation happen.

EIT Manufacturing now invites applications for the position of Chief Operating Officer - EIT Manufacturing ASBL. This is a full-time position located in either France, Belgium, Spain, Germany, Italy, Greece, or Hungary.

About the Role

We are seeking an accomplished and strategic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead the Operations Department at the EIT Manufacturing Knowledge Innovation Community (KIC). You will work closely with the CEO and Functional and regional Directors as part of the Management Team to implement EIT Manufacturing’s multi-annual strategy. The COO will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing the organisation’s strategy, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring best-in-class governance and internal controls.

Key Accountabilities

1. Governance, Compliance & Risk Management: Oversee corporate governance, ensuring adherence to all regulatory, legal, and ethical standards. Implement and monitor compliance frameworks to uphold transparency and accountability across all operations.
2. Operational Excellence & Organisational Efficiency: Lead all operational activities, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and efficiency. Design and enhance the operational framework, including processes, procedures, and performance monitoring.
3. Information Systems & Digital Transformation: Drive the development and integration of advanced information systems and digital solutions to enhance operational effectiveness. Ensure data integrity, cybersecurity, and compliance with IT governance standards.
4. Legal & Procurement: Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements across contracts, partnerships, and procurement activities. Oversee contract negotiations, ensuring favourable terms and risk mitigation for the organisation.
5. Reporting & Compliance: Ensure full compliance with Horizon Europe and EIT regulatory framework across all activities, including education, business creation, and innovation.
6. Stakeholder & Organisational Leadership: Act as deputy to the CEO as required to support internal and external activities. Lead cross-functional teams, fostering a high-performance culture and talent development.

Qualifications

Relevant academic degree: Masters level or higher in a relevant business or science discipline or equivalent professional experience/qualifications. Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role, preferably within the manufacturing or innovation sectors.

Skills & Expertise

1. Strong knowledge of corporate governance, compliance, and risk management frameworks.
2. Expertise in operational strategy, business process optimisation, and quality management.
3. In-depth knowledge of information systems, digital transformation, and data governance.
4. Exceptional financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
5. Ability to build and lead high-performing teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
6. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
7. Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Desirable Experience

Experience working in a public-private partnership, innovation ecosystem, or manufacturing industry, preferably within a multinational working environment.

What we Offer

A dynamic, scale-up environment with fast decision-making, open communication, minimal hierarchy, and significant autonomy. A collaborative and supportive team within a modern and well-located office. An English-speaking work environment.

Location

The role can be based in Paris Headquarter or any EIT Manufacturing offices across Europe with regular travel to EIT Manufacturing’s headquarters in Paris, as well as other regional offices, partners across 18 EU countries, and key stakeholders.

Equal Opportunities

EIT Manufacturing applies a policy of equal opportunities and accepts applications without discrimination on any grounds.

Closing date is April 06th, 2025. Participate in this exciting journey and send us your application now.