At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and scale operations for a groundbreaking AI semiconductor company.
- Company: Join Axelera AI, a pioneering deep-tech startup with a global presence.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, competitive salary, and potential company shares.
- Other info: Inclusive culture that values creativity and innovation.
- Why this job: Shape the future of AI while making a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in scaling operations in fabless semiconductor or OEM companies.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
About Us
Axelera AI is not your regular deep‑tech startup. We are creating the next-generation AI platform to support anyone who wants to help advancing humanity and improve the world around us. In just four years, we have raised a total of $370 million and have built a world-class team of 220+ employees (including 49+ PhDs with more than 40,000 citations), both remotely from 18 different countries and with offices in Belgium, France, Switzerland, Italy, the UK, headquartered at the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven, Netherlands. We have also launched our Metis™ AI Platform, which achieves a 3-5x increase in efficiency and performance, and have visibility into a strong business pipeline exceeding $100 million. Our unwavering commitment to innovation has firmly established us as a global industry pioneer.
Position Overview
The Vice President of Operations will build and scale the end‑to‑end operations function for a fast-growing fabless semiconductor company which provides to market AI chip, AI acceleration card and AI systems. This executive will take ownership of manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and delivery — transforming early prototypes and customer pilots into reliable, high-volume production. This is a hands‑on leadership role requiring deep technical expertise, strong execution instincts, experience in starting and scaling large operations worldwide and the ability to operate effectively in an environment with limited resources, evolving processes, and aggressive timelines.
Key responsibilities
- Build & Scale Operations
- Establish and scale fabless operations from early silicon through chip volume production, computing cards and systems
- Design and implement operational processes, systems, and KPIs suitable for rapid growth
- Lead NPI, qualification, ramp, and sustaining production across multiple products, customers and geographies
- Balance speed, cost, and quality in a resource-constrained environment
- Supply Chain & Manufacturing
- Own all external manufacturing: foundries, OSATs, test partners, board design houses, system design houses, contract manufacturers, logistics providers and system integrators
- Drive production planning, demand forecasting, and capacity management
- Identify and mitigate supply chain risks early (capacity, yield, lead times, geopolitical exposure)
- Develop alternate sourcing and contingency plans as the company scales
- Define and implement a global operation and supply chain strategy which takes into consideration supply chains and geopolitical requirements
- Foundry & Partner Leadership
- Build strategic, senior‑level relationships with foundries, OSAT, system integrators, ODM/OEM, contract manufacturer partners
- Negotiate contracts, pricing, capacity commitments, and escalation paths
- Advocate for the company internally with partners despite early‑stage volume constraints
- Quality & Yield Excellence
- Establish quality, reliability, and failure analysis frameworks appropriate for startup scale
- Lead yield learning, root cause analysis, and corrective actions from first silicon onward
- Ensure customer quality requirements and certifications are met as the business grows
- Cross‑Functional Execution
- Work closely with Engineering on DFM/DFT, process selection, and yield improvement
- Partner with Product and Sales to align customer commitments with operational reality
- Collaborate with Finance on cost modeling, cash planning, and gross margin improvement
- Team & Culture
- Build, lead, and mentor a lean, high‑impact operations and supply chain team
- Set a culture of ownership, urgency, transparency, and continuous improvement
- Roll up sleeves when needed — no task is “too small” at this stage
Qualifications
Required
- Strong background in scaling global operations in fabless semiconductor companies and/or OEM computing companies
- Proven experience taking products from design to volume production
- Track record of building processes and teams from the ground up
- Ability to operate effectively and quickly with ambiguity, incomplete data, and tight timelines
Preferred
- Experience scaling a startup/scaleup through rapid growth or acquisition
- Background in markets such as AI, automotive, industrial, or data infrastructure
- MBA or advanced technical degree
Location
We offer a flexible working arrangement, with options to work from one of our Axelera AI offices (Leuven in Belgium, Amsterdam and Eindhoven in the Netherlands, Zurich in Switzerland, Florence and Milan in Italy or Bristol in the United Kingdom) if you're already based in the vicinity. Relocate with us and work from Italy (Florence or Milan) or the Netherlands (Amsterdam or Eindhoven).
What Success Looks Like (12–24 Months)
- Predictable product delivery from early customers to volume production
- Strong, trusted relationships with ODM/OEMs, foundries and OSAT partners
- Measurable improvements in product cost and time‑to‑market
- A scalable operations foundation ready for the next growth phase
What We Offer
Opportunity to build the operations engine from the ground up. High visibility and direct impact on company success. Executive ownership in a company transitioning from startup to scale‑up. This is your chance to shape and be part of a dynamic, fast‑growing, international organization. We offer an attractive compensation package, extensive employee insurances and the option to get company shares. An open culture that supports creativity and continual innovation is awaiting you. Collaborative ownership and freedom with responsibility is characteristic for the way we act and work as a team. At Axelera AI, we wholeheartedly embrace equal opportunity and hold diversity in the highest regard. Our steadfast commitment is to cultivate a warm and inclusive environment that empowers and celebrates every member of our team. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to join us in shaping the future of AI.
Vice President of Operations employer: Talantir
Join an award-winning digital marketing agency in London that champions a values-driven culture, where brilliant minds collaborate to create meaningful, data-driven results. With a commitment to employee growth and a flexible hybrid working model, this agency fosters a supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and innovation, particularly in the exciting realm of AI. As part of a close-knit team, you'll have the opportunity to lead impactful projects and shape the future of digital marketing while being part of a certified B Corp dedicated to positive impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice President of Operations
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Talantir, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Vice President of Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Talantir specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Talantir
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Talantir, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Talantir value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
