Business Operations Director

Position Summary:  SkyWater is a leading semiconductor manufacturing company specializing in advanced packaging solutions. Our focus is on providing innovative, high-quality products that meet the growing demands of the global technology industry. As we continue to expand and scale our operations, we are looking for a talented and driven Business Operations Director to join our team and drive efficiency, operational excellence, and growth within the organization. The Business Operations Director will play a key role in overseeing and improving operational processes across the organization, focusing on the semiconductor manufacturing and advanced packaging sectors. This individual will manage and streamline business operations to enhance performance, manage costs, and increase productivity, working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless operations across engineering, fab operations, supply chain, and business functions. The successful candidate will also be responsible for developing manufacturing capacity models, cost structures, and defining strategies for customers contracts to ensure efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction.   Major Areas of Accountability: Manufacturing Capacity Planning: Develop and maintain scalable manufacturing capacity models to meet demand forecasts and operational requirements. Work closely with production teams to assess current capacity, evaluate potential constraints, and recommend optimization solutions. Align manufacturing capacity with market needs and future growth projections, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness. Cost Modeling: Design and implement robust cost models for manufacturing operations, incorporating direct and indirect costs, overheads, and supply chain expenses. Conduct cost analysis to support pricing strategies and identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement. Collaborate with finance teams to track cost performance and adjust business strategies as necessary. Operational Efficiency: Identify opportunities for cost reduction, process optimization, and improved operational efficiency in collaboration with engineering, fab operations and supply chain teams. Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the effectiveness of business operations and suggest data-driven improvements. Facilitate project teams, resources, and schedules to ensure smooth execution of strategic initiatives in advanced packaging. Contract Strategy Development: Develop and implement contract strategies that align with company goals and customer expectations, ensuring mutually beneficial terms. Work with legal and sales teams on contract terms, pricing, and service level agreements (SLAs). Monitor contract performance and address any issues or opportunities for improvement. Cross-functional Collaboration: Act as a liaison between fab operations, supply chain, finance, legal, engineering, and sales teams to ensure alignment on objectives and smooth communication across functions. Collaborate with leadership to assess strategic opportunities and recommend actions to support business goals and drive growth in advanced packaging. Data Analysis & Reporting: Analyze operational data to identify trends, performance bottlenecks, and areas for improvement. Prepare and present regular reports to senior management on key metrics, including operational performance, cost efficiency, and progress on strategic initiatives. Financial and Budget Management: Develop and manage division budget including annual operating plan, ensuring cost-effective use of resources across the different functions aligned to business objectives. Track expenses, identify cost-saving opportunities, and implement strategies to control costs. Work with finance teams to analyze and optimize profitability.   Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s preferred). 8 years of experience in business operations management, preferably within the advanced packaging, semiconductor, or manufacturing industry. Strong knowledge of manufacturing operations, cost modeling, capacity planning, and contract negotiations. Strong knowledge of semiconductor manufacturing processes, specifically advanced packaging techniques and technologies. Proven experience in process improvement, project management, and cross-functional team leadership. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate data into actionable insights. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with both technical and non-technical teams. Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and data analytics tools. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.   U.S. Citizenship is Required: This position will require the holding of or ability to obtain government security clearance which requires U.S Citizenship.   Preferred Qualifications: Certification in Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies. Experience in managing global supply chains and dealing with international suppliers. Knowledge of the latest trends and technologies in advanced semiconductor packaging.