Director of Innovation & Processes

About the role

The company, a leading European manufacturer of technical textiles, is expanding its activities in West Belgium and seeks a Director of Innovation & Processes. Reporting to senior management, you will shape the innovation agenda and drive process excellence across the full production chain.

Key responsibilities

• Define and implement innovation and process strategies aligned with growth and sustainability goals.
• Lead R&D projects and ensure seamless transfer from laboratory to industrial scale.
• Maintain and strengthen quality management systems, certifications, and audit readiness.
• Collaborate with universities, research institutes, and external partners to foster technical innovation.
• Act as a key interface for IT and digitalisation initiatives, using data to optimise processes.
• Guide, mentor, and develop a team of ~10 specialists, promoting a culture of technical excellence.
• Measure, monitor, and report the impact of operational improvements.

Required profile

• Advanced degree in Textile Engineering, Materials Science, Industrial Engineering or a related 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.
• Bilingual French/Dutch; English is a strong asset.

Required skills

What we offer

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