Services Director in London

Our client is a global leader in critical equipment for semiconductor manufacturing. Their systems keep some of the world's most advanced chip fabs running, and their service teams work on site with major chipmakers every day. They are part of a large international engineering group with a strong reputation for quality, safety and long-term investment in its people.
This is a permanent, senior and hands-on leadership role running the semiconductor service business across EMEA. The region covers nine countries, from Ireland through Central Europe to Israel. You will lead a team of around 180 people, with field service teams in eight of those countries.
You will own a service business of around $80M, with a clear plan to grow it to $100M within the next couple of years. The organisation has recently been restructured. This is the moment for someone to take it to the next level and put their own stamp on it.
You will also lead real change. The business is moving towards outcomes-based contracts, where customers pay for performance and uptime rather than engineer hours and parts. Decisions will be increasingly driven by data. You will sit on the EMEA senior leadership team.
Because the team is spread across the region, there is flexibility on where you are based. Germany and Ireland are particularly well placed, and other European locations will be considered.
This is not a distant, high-level role. You will be out with your teams and customers regularly, with around 30–40% of your time spent travelling between sites across the region. It's the best way to understand the business, build trust and spot opportunities early. The wider team also comes together each quarter, rotating across locations.
What you will be doing
Owning full P&L and working capital accountability for semiconductor service across EMEA
Growing revenue and adding value beyond the current service offer
Negotiating service contracts and building senior relationships with key customers
Developing new outcomes-based contract models with sales, product and applications teams
Making sure field and on-site service teams have the capability and capacity to deliver, safely and cost-effectively
Spending regular time on site with customers and field teams across EMEA, from Ireland to Israel
Spotting risks early and seeing the full commercial and operational picture
Leading and developing an experienced team of service and operations managers
Building a diverse, inclusive and engaged team, with clear career paths and succession plans
Acting as a visible role model for health, safety and quality in high-risk customer environments
What you will bring
A background in aftersales or service management, ideally in capital equipment or semiconductors
A genuine mix of operational and commercial experience, including leading large teams and negotiating service contracts
5+ years in senior management across multiple countries
A critical, detail-oriented mindset. You enjoy getting into the detail and know that's where problems and opportunities often sit
Lateral thinking and sound judgement on risk
Strong communication and people leadership at scale
The ambition to grow a business, not just maintain it
Knowledge of ISO 9001, ISO 14001 or ISO 45001 would be an advantage
Excellent English. Another European language is a plus
Comfortable with 30–40% travel across EMEA, including regular overnight stays
This is a chance to lead a well-established, growing service business at a pivotal point. You will have real influence over strategy, customers and people, with the backing of a global group that invests in its teams.
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