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President – Semiconductor / Laser / Optoelectronics

Boston Area, 250k+ pkg, RA Engaged Search 8.24

Company Overview:

RA’s client is an established, leading innovator in high-power semiconductor laser technology, from conceptual design to fabrication, packaging, assembly of laser devices / systems of a variety of power and wavelengths. They serve diverse markets including industrial, medical, defense, and telecommunications. RA’s client pride themselves on their cutting-edge research, high-performance and reliability products, and commitment to excellence in the industry.

Position Overview:

As the President of RA’s client, you will be responsible for steering the company towards continuing and sustainable growth and profitability. You will lead the strategic planning, business development, and operational execution, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of the semiconductor laser industry. You will provide leadership of the operations of the business, as well as providing leadership to the engineering organization. The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record of leadership, technology innovation, and business acumen, with a deep understanding in semiconductor laser technologies and industry. Ideally your experience and technology exposure includes aspects of device/wafer fab, device packaging, and assembly. You should possess experience managing technical teams as well as operations leadership experience.

Reports to: Board of Directors

Key Responsibilities:

Operations Leadership:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute the company’s long-term strategic vision, aligning it with market trends, technological advancements, and customer needs.
• Operational Management: Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and profitability across all business units.
• Business Development: Identify and pursue new business opportunities, partnerships, and markets, , including those in the military sector, to drive growth and expand the company’s global presence.
• Financial Oversight: Manage the company’s financial health, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment strategies to ensure robust financial performance.
• Product Innovation: Guide research and development initiatives, fostering innovation and maintaining the company’s competitive edge in high-power semiconductor laser technology.
• Team Leadership: Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing executive team, promoting a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Stakeholder Relations: Act as the primary representative of the company to stakeholders, including customers, partners, investors, and the Board of Directors.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure the company adheres to all regulatory requirements and industry standards, while managing risks effectively.

Technical Leadership:

Either through the Engineering Management team or with your direct involvement:

• Provide leadership and strategic direction to the engineering team to drive innovation and ensure successful development of semiconductor laser products, including products with window-style and fiber-coupled packaging, DPSS technology and Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs)
• Oversee the design, development, and optimization of semiconductor lasers, focusing on GaAs/InP epitaxial design window-style and fiber-coupled packaging, DPSS and QCL laser technologies and applications relevant to the military.
  • Stay current with industry trends and advancements in semiconductor laser technology and integrate new methodologies as appropriate.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of highly skilled engineers and scientists.
  • Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment, encouraging cross-functional teamwork.
  • Manage resource allocation, project timelines, and budget to meet company objectives.

Qualifications:

• Your business / operations / technology leadership experience in semiconductor laser space should be at the $15M+ revenue/cost center level

• Experience: Minimum of 15+ years of experience in senior leadership roles within the semiconductor laser /optoelectronics / photonics technology industry/segment.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Physics, or a related field; an advanced degree (MBA, Ph.D.) is preferred.
• Technical Expertise: knowledge of high-power semiconductor laser technology, including device fabrication and processing with a strong understanding of the underlying technology and market applications and market conditions. Experience in bringing military products from TRL 1 thought TRL9 is a plus.
• Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams, with a track record of driving growth and operational excellence.
• Business Acumen: Strong financial management skills, with experience in strategic planning, business development, and P&L responsibility.
• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Visionary Mindset: Ability to anticipate industry trends and position the company as a leader in the field, with a particular focus on military applications.