The Role
Lead NPI operations across multiple sites to deliver new product launches and transfers into manufacturing. Drive program governance, cross-functional alignment, KPIs (time-to-market, cost, quality), and continuous improvement using phase-gate, lean/Kaizen, and portfolio management tools. Manage budgets, escalations, risk mitigation, training, and multi-site PMO execution.
Summary Generated by Built In
Join UCT and be part of the fastest-growing sector in the world! We indirectly touch every semiconductor chip that goes into every smartphone, smart car and device that uses artificial intelligence. This is a critical time for the semiconductor industry and for UCT - as technology evolves, we evolve with it. UCT is a diverse workplace where every talented employee is committed to continuous innovation, challenging the status quo and exceeding customer expectations. If you are a person with a relentless drive to succeed, a strong focus on quality with a passion for success – join us today!
Job Summary:The Senior Director, NPI Operations, is accountable for leading the strategic direction, execution, and continuous improvement of the New Product Introduction (NPI) process across multiple sites. This role oversees the successful launch of new products or site-to-site transfer of products into manufacturing by ensuring cross-functional alignment, robust program management methodologies, and a culture of operational excellence. The position requires driving both process standardization and scalability to meet the growing demands of UCT business, while maintaining a focus on cost, quality, and delivery targets.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Job Summary:The Senior Director, NPI Operations, is accountable for leading the strategic direction, execution, and continuous improvement of the New Product Introduction (NPI) process across multiple sites. This role oversees the successful launch of new products or site-to-site transfer of products into manufacturing by ensuring cross-functional alignment, robust program management methodologies, and a culture of operational excellence. The position requires driving both process standardization and scalability to meet the growing demands of UCT business, while maintaining a focus on cost, quality, and delivery targets.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Leadership & Strategy:
- Lead a high-performing NPI team to deliver successful product launches and transfers into manufacturing.
- Align cross-functional teams (R&D, Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Sales) to NPI objectives.
- Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement in NPI processes to drive operational efficiencies.
- Oversee and enhance the phase-gate process to ensure timely and cost-effective product launches.
- Program Management & Delivery:
- Develop and implement a governance structure for NPI that promotes accountability and transparency.
- Ensure the department consistently meets KPIs related to time-to-market, cost control, product quality, and on-time to HVM.
- Manage escalations and proactively mitigate risks by conducting regular program reviews and audits.
- Drive cross functional execution of NPI deliverables and escalate, as needed
- Cross-functional Alignment & Communication:
- Ensure clear and effective communication of project status to internal and external stakeholders.
- Collaborate with CRM, Sales, and Operations teams to forecast and manage workload capacity.
- Drive engagement and accountability from cross-functional teams in support of NPI objectives.
- Process Improvement:
- Continuously evaluate and improve NPI methodologies and tools to ensure world-class operational performance.
- Implement Kaizen and lean practices to enhance project management efficiency.
- Drive improvements in the Organizational Project Maturity Index (OPM3) or equivalent performance metrics.
- Training & Development:
- Ensure the team has access to structured training programs to enhance their program management and technical skills.
- Act as a regional champion for program management excellence.
- Financial Oversight:
- Responsible for managing departmental budgets, ensuring cost-effective utilization of resources.
- Provide accurate forecasts and manage spending in alignment with corporate goals.
- Collaborate with site PM’s and Account Executive teams for commercial alignment for the project
- Proven leadership in managing large-scale NPI projects across multiple sites and geographies.
- Expertise in program management methodologies and tools such as MS Project or enterprise-level portfolio management systems.
- Strong problem-solving and change management skills with the ability to drive process optimization.
- Familiarity with ISO, QS 9000, and other quality systems, as well as ERP systems like SAP or Oracle.
- Ability to influence and drive accountability across departments and external stakeholders.
- Strong communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills, with a global business perspective.
- Ability to manage complex, cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, or a related technical field. Master’s degree preferred.
- PMP certification or equivalent program management certification highly desirable.
- 12+ years of experience in NPI, operations, or engineering, with at least 7+ years in a senior leadership role.
- Demonstrated success in managing multi-site operations with a focus on new product deployment.
- Experience in managing a global, multi-tier PMO (Program Management Office) preferred.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, or related technical field
- 12+ years of experience in NPI, operations, or engineering
- 7+ years in a senior leadership role
- Proven leadership managing large-scale NPI projects across multiple sites and geographies
- Expertise with program management methodologies and tools (e.g., MS Project, enterprise portfolio management systems)
- Familiarity with quality systems and standards (ISO, QS 9000) and ERP systems (SAP, Oracle)
- Strong problem-solving, change management, communication, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills
- Experience managing budgets, forecasts, and departmental financial oversight
- PMP or equivalent program management certification
- Experience managing a global, multi-tier PMO
- Experience implementing Kaizen/lean practices and improving organizational project maturity (OPM3 or equivalent)
- Master's degree in a technical or operations field
Ultra Clean Technology Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Ultra Clean Technology and has not been reviewed or approved by Ultra Clean Technology.
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Healthcare Strength — Plan choice includes Cigna and Kaiser options, with preventive care covered in-network and employer HSA/HRA support and wellness incentives. This breadth provides flexibility to align coverage with location and usage needs.
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Retirement Support — A defined 401(k) program features matching contributions after an initial service period, auto-enrollment, and clear vesting milestones. These elements create predictable retirement savings support with straightforward participation.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — PTO accrual increases with tenure to a generous cap, complemented by a structured paid holiday schedule. This structure can support time away for rest and personal needs.
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The Company
What We Do
UltraClean Holdings, Inc. (UCT) is a global leader in semiconductor fabrication support. Our Products Division provides improved design-to-delivery times for major subassemblies, advanced flow control, and high-precision manufacturing. Our Services Division offers tool chamber parts cleaning and coating, and micro-contamination analysis. UCT also provides pivotal production support for the power & energy, and process industries.
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