Director of Innovation & Processes

About the role

The company, a leading European manufacturer of technical textiles, is seeking a Director of Innovation & Processes to shape its innovation roadmap and drive process excellence across spinning, weaving, dyeing and finishing operations. Reporting to senior management, you will bridge strategic vision with hands‑on execution, ensuring that new technologies are transferred from the laboratory to full‑scale production.

Key responsibilities

• Define and implement an innovation strategy aligned with growth, sustainability and quality objectives.
• Lead R&D projects, manage technology transfer and oversee a team of ~10 specialists, including laboratory staff.
• Maintain and enhance quality management systems, certifications and audit readiness.
• Collaborate with universities, research institutes and external partners to foster technical breakthroughs.
• Act as the primary interface for IT and digitalisation initiatives, using data to optimise processes.
• Mentor the team, promoting a culture of technical excellence and proactive problem‑solving.
• Ensure that operational improvements are measurable, sustainable and deliver tangible impact.

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 a manufacturing environment.
• Proven leadership of 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

What we offer

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