Director of Innovation & Processes

About the role

The Director of Innovation & Processes will shape the company’s technical direction by defining and executing innovation and process strategies across all manufacturing stages. This senior position combines strategic vision with hands‑on operational leadership to reinforce the firm’s technological position in technical textiles.

Key responsibilities

• Define and implement innovation and process strategies aligned with growth and sustainability objectives.
• Lead R&D initiatives and ensure smooth transfer from laboratory developments to industrial‑scale production.
• Maintain and strengthen quality management systems, certifications, and audit readiness.
• Collaborate with external partners, universities, and research institutes to drive technical innovation.
• Act as a key interface for IT and digitalisation projects, leveraging data to optimise processes.
• Guide and mentor a team of approximately 10 specialists, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Ensure operational improvements and innovations are measurable, sustainable, and impactful.

Required profile

• Advanced degree in Textile Engineering, Materials Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Extensive experience in innovation, process management, R&D, or quality systems within manufacturing environments.
• Proven leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong analytical and strategic mindset combined with hands‑on operational expertise.
• Excellent communication skills, comfortable with audits, certifications, and reporting to senior management.
• Bilingual French/Dutch required; English is a strong asset.

Required skills

• Spinning
• Weaving
• Dyeing
• Finishing
• Process optimisation
• Quality management systems
• R&D project management
• Digitalisation
• Data analysis

What we offer

• Strategic leadership role within a stable and growing industrial group.
• Significant autonomy and responsibility.
• Long‑term perspective with structured knowledge transfer.