Head of Operations

Job content

Do you want to be part of a business that genuinely values entrepreneurialism, innovation and individual accountability? We focus on our customers and are proud of the difference our technology makes. We partner with some of the biggest manufacturing companies in the world and our technical innovations are used to enhance well-known brands across multiple industries.

VI-grade is part of HBK’s Virtual Test Division, which provides real-time software, simulator, and hardware-in-the-loop solutions to virtually test products throughout the development cycle, helping companies accelerate innovation, reduce physical prototypes and time-to-market, and improve their competitive advantage.

Our real-time simulation and professional driving simulator solutions include static deskside solutions, through to full-scale driver-in-the-loop dynamic simulators. We deliver turnkey solutions to enable transportation industry OEMs, suppliers, research centers, motorsport teams and universities to accelerate product development. This includes supplying proprietary software, hardware, services, and an open framework for customization.

Virtual Test employs 250 highly skilled colleagues worldwide, and has offices in Germany, Italy, France, UK, China, Japan, and the USA, as well as a broad network of worldwide channel partners.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to lead our Operations, including the driving simulator, Software and Hardware-in-the-loop (“HiL”) delivery teams and manage the purchasing department. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing complex projects globally, managing procurement, shipping, and supply chain logistics, while also leading procurement activities to support our project fulfillment and organizational needs.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the 3 different delivery teams (simulators, software and hardware-in-the-loop), providing guidance, support, and mentorship to ensure successful project execution.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to optimize delivery processes, minimize costs, and enhance efficiency.
• Coordinate closely with internal departments, including sales, procurement, logistics, engineering, and customer service, to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Oversee procurement activities, including vendor selection, negotiation, and contract management, to secure necessary components and materials for project fulfillment.
• Manage the purchasing department, overseeing the procurement of goods and services needed for internal operations and project execution as well as inventory.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key suppliers and vendors, negotiating favorable terms and pricing agreements to support organizational objectives.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, procedures, and regulations, maintaining accuracy and integrity in purchasing records and transactions.
• Collaborate with finance and accounting teams to manage budgets, track expenses, and optimize cost-saving opportunities across procurement and delivery operations.
• Monitor project schedules and milestones, proactively identifying risks and implementing mitigation strategies to prevent delays.
• Collaborate with customers to understand their evolving requirements and preferences, ensuring that delivered simulators meet or exceed expectations.
• Continuously evaluate and improve delivery and procurement processes, incorporating feedback and lessons learned to drive operational excellence.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, technologies, and best practices related to driving simulation, project management, and procurement, applying relevant insights to enhance our capabilities.
  
  

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business administration, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Proven experience in project management and procurement, preferably in a technical or engineering-related field, with a focus on complex, international projects.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team to achieve common goals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with internal teams, customers, suppliers, and external partners.
• Solid understanding of procurement, logistics, and supply chain management principles, with a track record of successfully managing related activities.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities, with a strategic mindset and the capacity to navigate challenges and uncertainties.
• Detail-oriented approach, coupled with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency in project management tools and software applications.
• Willingness to travel internationally as needed.
• Fluent in English.