Senior Director, Product Line Management InP in Glasgow

About Indium Phosphide (InP) Technology

The world’s communications infrastructure depends on semiconductor lasers, particularly those based on indium phosphide technology. Indium phosphide lasers are engineered to emit at wavelengths that are optimal for long-distance transmission through fibre optics. In short, they enable the optical networks that form the global internet.

Coherent’s broad portfolio of InP components includes application-specific Fabry-Pérot lasers, directly modulated lasers (DMLs), and tunable lasers. It also includes photodiodes for high-speed receivers and power monitoring. In 2022, we introduced 200 Gbps indium phosphide electro-absorption modulated lasers (EMLs) for high-speed datacentre transceivers. This design provides our customers with the most advanced, robust, and cost-competitive laser devices for their 800G and next-gen 1.6T datacom transceiver designs. Our world-class and highly reliable InP technology platform is one of the very few in the industry that has been proven, with more than one hundred million lasers in the field deployed over the last decades.

We are seeking a strategic and customer-focused Semiconductor Laser PLM to lead the management of a world-class InP device product line. This role is responsible for driving product strategy, engaging with customers, managing financial performance, and delivering marketing and technical content that supports business growth. The ideal candidate will be adept at cross-functional collaboration and passionate about delivering high-impact solutions to customers worldwide.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Communication
  • Partner with customers’ R&D teams to understand technical needs and translate them into actionable product requirements.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact throughout the design-in lifecycle—from initial engagement through post-integration support.
  • Respond to RFQs with compelling technical and marketing data to support sales objectives.
  • Effectively communicate product roadmaps, portfolio strengths, and market applications to the global sales force.
• Product Line Strategy & Development
  • Define and execute the strategic roadmap for the InP product line, including setting product guidelines and technical specifications.
  • Develop and manage pricing strategies to ensure market competitiveness and profitability.
  • Identify and evaluate opportunities for growth, including new products, applications, and customer segments.
  • Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to guide the product development lifecycle from concept to launch.
  • Coordinate the allocation of new products during development to align with customer needs.
  • Lead the definition of detailed customer requirements and drive product customisation and specification reviews to secure design wins.
• Business Management & Analytics
  • Own and drive the P&L for the InP product line, delivering regular performance updates to leadership.
  • Maintain and communicate accurate forecasts for InP products to internal stakeholders.
  • Monitor market share and performance metrics to assess competitiveness in key segments.
  • Quantify and evaluate market trends and opportunities to inform strategy.
  • Lead cost-reduction efforts and manage product change notifications with customers.
• Content Development & Documentation
  • Develop high-quality technical documentation including product specifications, user guides, and application notes.
  • Produce marketing materials such as brochures, briefs, and white papers to support commercial success.
  • Oversee the technical accuracy and editorial quality of datasheets and product collateral.

Education & Experience

• BA or BS in Engineering required. MBA or MS/PhD in Engineering strongly preferred.
• The ideal candidate will have significant business experience (Product Management, Engineering, Operations Management, R&D and/or Product Marketing) in a technical environment combined with a track record of success.
• Semiconductor electro-optical device experience required. 8+ years of related experience.

Skills

• Experience with problem analysis and resolution at the strategic and functional levels.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• In-depth understanding of the value proposition in existing and new market segments.
• Proven track record of continuous improvement, managing P&L, driving product strategy, and identifying growth opportunities.
• Ability to easily and successfully work with employees and customers in a multi-cultural, global team environment.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities and complex issues involving external and internal priorities.
• A high standard of ethics, professionalism, leadership, and competency.

Working Conditions

• This position is on-site in the Bay Area.
• Will require frequent off-site meetings or travel.
• Regular use of a computer and other office equipment is necessary.
• Interaction with team members and external contacts is a regular part of the job.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or conducting meetings.
• Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
• Mobility within the office environment to attend meetings or interact with colleagues.

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.: Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust; Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas; Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome; Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone; Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work.

Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, colour, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.