At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial operations, ensuring customer expectations align with delivery and financial performance.
- Company: Join Chromalox, a pioneer in advanced thermal technologies with a century of innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equal opportunities and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while driving operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial operations, contract management, and strong analytical skills required.
Composed of Chromalox, Durex Industries, Vulcanic, and Thermocoax businesses, Electrical Thermal Solutions (ETS), part of Spirax Group, creates electrical process heating and temperature management solutions, including industrial heaters and systems, heat tracing, and a range of component technologies.
At Chromalox, we build advanced thermal technologies for the world’s most challenging industrial heating applications.
Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, we got our start with an innovative solution 100 years ago when a self‑taught engineer invented the first metal‑sheathed resistance heating element. It was this then‑advanced thermal technology that launched an entire industry.
We excel in industries that have high expectations. We are acknowledged as experts at delivering solutions that exceed specifications, limit risk, and reduce operating costs.
Join us as we continue to provide solutions to our customers and the world!
The Role
The Head of Commercial Operations is responsible for strengthening commercial execution across the business by integrating customer demand, contract risk, delivery performance, programme tracking, and revenue recognition disciplines.
The role provides governance, insight, and operational leadership to ensure:
- Customer commitments/expectations are clearly understood across the wider business.
- Performance against above expectations are measured, and actions plans are implemented.
- Commercial and contractual risks are proactively managed.
- Large orders and contracts are delivered with discipline and visibility.
- Financial outcomes are predictable and controlled.
Scope and Accountability
This commercial role will collaborate with Operations & Supply Chain, Finance, Legal and PMO functions. Establishing/influencing consistent commercial processes, performance metrics, and governance routines that connect customer expectations, internal delivery capability, contractual obligations and financial performance.
Your Responsibilities
Cross‑Functional Integration
Alignment Of Commercial Expectations With Operations & Supply Chain, Finance, Legal, And PMO. Ensuring Clear Translation Of Customer Expectations Into Delivery Plans And Joined‑up Decision‑making Across The Order Lifecycle Through
S&OP and Demand Visibility
- Embed customer requirements into robust S&OP processes
- Ensure forecasting assumptions and delivery commitments are aligned across Commercial and Supply functions
- Surface and elevate risks, gaps, and constraints early
Order & Contract Risk Management
- Establish governance over open and future orders; Identifying and monitoring commercial risk, contractual exposure and delivery/supply risks.
- Implement clear escalation and recovery/mitigation frameworks.
Large Order / Contract PMO Oversight
- Own tracking of major contracts and programmes
- Ensure visibility of:
- Key Milestones / Invoicing deliverables
- Internal & External Dependencies
- Risks (RAID) & Action Plans
- Financial impact analysis and forecasting.
- Drive disciplined execution through structured PMO engagement.
Revenue Recognition Governance (IFRS 15)
- Partner with Finance to ensure compliant revenue recognition.
- Align operational delivery with performance obligations, milestone evidence & contract terms.
Delivery Performance
- Track performance vs customer commitments
- Identify root causes of delays or underperformance
- Ensure corrective actions are owned and delivered
Customer Sustainability & Growth Insight
- Monitor customer health (retention, churn, share‑of‑wallet)
- Identify grey‑space and white‑space opportunities
- Feed insights into commercial and supply prioritisation
Dispute Management
- Support resolution of commercial and contractual disputes
- Coordinate across Legal, Finance, and Commercial teams
- Ensure structured tracking and resolution
Customer Engagement Governance
- Standardise engagement processes with key customers
- Ensure preparation, follow‑up, and accountability
- Capture insight systematically to inform decisions
Leadership and Ways of Working
- Act as a trusted partner to senior commercial and operational leaders, bringing structure, discipline, and challenge to decision‑making to drive a culture of transparency, ownership and proactive risk management.
- Build governance packs, dashboards, and operating rhythms for leadership
- Lead continuous improvement of commercial operations processes
Requirements
- Strong background in: Commercial operations, Programme/contract management & Finance/Business operations.
- Proven track record operating in a complex B2B, contract‑led environment
- Deep understanding of: Order lifecycle management, Contract risk & Delivery performance
- Working knowledge of IFRS 15 revenue recognition
- Strong stakeholder management, analytical capability & executive
- Experience in building communication cadence, governance frameworks & performance reporting.
Success Measures
- Improved visibility and control of order and contract risk
- Strong alignment between: customer demand, S&OP & Delivery execution
- Disciplined tracking of large contracts and programmes
- Reduction in commercial surprises and reactive firefighting
- Improved delivery performance insight and execution
- Consistent and effective customer engagement processes
At Chromalox, we are not just an employer but a champion of equal opportunities and inclusivity. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace that adheres to the highest hiring standards and is free from discrimination and harassment.
Chromalox is an equal opportunity employer; our commitment extends to all aspects of employment, ensuring that no individual is mistreated or discriminated against based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as defined by federal, state, or local laws.
Head of Commercial Operations (ETS) in Cheltenham employer: Chromalox
Chromalox is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work environment in the heart of Cheltenham. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer accelerated learning opportunities and support for career advancement, making it an ideal place for professionals eager to make a meaningful impact in high-technology sectors. Join us to be part of a team dedicated to delivering cutting-edge thermal solutions while enjoying a culture that values creativity and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Commercial Operations (ETS) in Cheltenham
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Commercial Operations (ETS) in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
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Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to narrate your professional journey. We’re looking for motivation and a clear understanding of what corporate leadership means to you. Dive into your aspirations and how they align with the values and vision of Chromalox. Make it personal – we want to get to know you!
Tailor Your CV for Management Roles:Ensure your CV reflects the management skills that are essential for this role. Focus on competencies like strategic planning, team building, and problem-solving. Use a clean layout, and don’t forget to align your experiences with those keywords mentioned in the job listing. This will help you stand out from the crowd!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chromalox
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Since this is a full-time leadership role, spending time thinking about your vision for Chromalox could really set you apart. Consider potential strategies for growth and how you would lead teams towards achieving them. This shows not just enthusiasm, but also strategic foresight that they’ll likely be looking for in a candidate.
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