Chief Operating Officer

About EIT Manufacturing: EIT Manufacturing is an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), a body of the European Union. To find out more, please visit EIT Manufacturing is the leading pan-European community fostering innovation in manufacturing through a unique active ecosystem. With 200+ partners, EIT Manufacturing connects businesses, startups, academia and research institutions to make innovation happen. IT Manufacturing now invites applications for the position of Chief Operating Officer - EIT Manufacturing ASBL Full-time position at EIT Manufacturing ASBL located in either France, Belgium, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Greece or Italy. 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. EIT Manufacturing’s purpose is to improve people’s life through sustainable manufacturing, we require a visionary leader to ensure operational excellence, compliance, and efficiency in achieving it. 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. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will drive operational performance, streamline processes, and enhance organisational effectiveness through robust systems, policies, and procedures. Key Accountabilities 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. Lead risk management strategies, identifying potential risks and developing mitigation plans. Ensure robust internal audit functions, addressing process improvements and regulatory compliance. 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. Ensure optimal internal information flow, maintaining high security and accessibility standards. Prepare, produce, and monitor annual business plans and performance reviews in line with EIT requirements. Collaborate with regional and functional Directors to maximise synergies and operational effectiveness. Engage with other KIC and regulatory bodies to share best practices and leverage shared knowledge. Financial control and Grant Management With the Finance Directors, oversees the financial strategy and planning, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s growth objectives and overall strategic direction. Manages financial operations and controls, maintaining accuracy, compliance, and fiscal discipline across budgeting, reporting, and risk management. Ensures sound grant and funding management, upholding accountability, compliance, and efficient fund utilisation in collaboration with program leaders. 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. Leverage technology to improve decision-making, workflow automation, and overall organisational performance. Reporting & Compliance Ensure full compliance with Horizon Europe and EIT regulatory framework across all activities, including education, business creation, and innovation. Manage timely and accurate internal and external reporting, adhering to all regulatory and organisational requirements. Streamline the planning and reporting processes for partner organisations to minimise their administrative workload. 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. Manage the operational liaison of the KIC with EIT, ensuring a smooth and effective collaboration Act as a strategic advisor to the CEO and Supervisory Board, contributing to long‑term organisational strategy. 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. Strong experience working with European institutions and funding mechanisms (EIT KICs, Horizon Europe, etc.). Skills and expertise: Strong knowledge of corporate governance, compliance, and risk management frameworks. Expertise in operational strategy, business process optimisation, and quality management. In‑depth knowledge of information systems, digital transformation, and data governance. Exceptional financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control. Ability to build and lead high‑performing teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills. 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. Familiarity with regulatory environments affecting the manufacturing and technology sectors. Track record of successfully leading change management initiatives and digital transformation projects. Background in internal audit, risk assessment, or quality assurance leadership Other EIT KICs experience is a plus. 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 at the EIT Manufacturing Headquarters or remotely from any of the following countries: France, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Greece, Spain or Portugal with regular travel to Brussels, EIT Manufacturing’s headquarters in Paris, as well as other Equal opportunities: EIT Manufacturing values diversity and applies policies of equal opportunities. We welcome applications without discrimination on any grounds. Candidates who believe their interests have been prejudiced by a decision in a selection process may request a review of, or launch an appeal against, the decision affecting them. We strongly encourage applications from candidates with a recognised disability (RQTH). If you require any adjustments or accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know confidentially. Selection Committee: A Selection Committee will be appointed to carry out the evaluation of applications submitted. Please note that the Selection Committee´s internal proceedings are strictly confidential. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview. Candidates may be asked to provide proof of qualifications, background, skills, and experiences by providing relevant documents. Protection of personal data: Candidates’ personal data are processed as required by Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data and repealing Directive 95/46/EC (General Data Protection Regulation). For more information, please check the privacy statement on recruitment available Privacy Notice. Closing date is December 01st, 2025 Please join us on this exciting journey. Send us your application now #J-18808-Ljbffr