Operations Manager (Smelter)

About Umicore 

Powering the cars of today and tomorrow. Reducing harmful emissions. Giving unique properties to high-end applications. Giving new life to used metals. As a global advanced materials and recycling group, we develop, produce, and recycle materials for a better life.  

About Precious Metals Refining 

The world’s resources are scarce. Umicore’s refining and recycling technology gives used metals a new lease of life. We are experts in treating the most complex materials from around the world. Our processes help bring value to the circular economy and reduce environmental impacts. To recover more metal from different types of material we cannot stand still. We need to find new ways to do things, discover new solutions and develop new processes. Which is where you come in. 

What you will be doing 

• Take full ownership of daily operations in the TSL smelter and acid plant department, ensuring compliance with EHS standards and achievement of operational KPIs 

• Lead and manage the operations team of approx. 100 employees, including administration and support functions. This includes recruiting, training, developing, and coaching team members 

• Drive effective communication within your team and with all relevant stakeholders 

• Translate the business policies and strategic goals into actionable plans that enhance team well-being and operational efficiency 

• Maximize equipment availability and minimize maintenance costs through proactive day-to-day management 

• Own and manage the department’s OPEX, ensuring cost-effective operations 

• Continuously adapt and optimize operational structures in response to changing conditions 

• Oversee the execution of production planning and ensure alignment with business objectives 

• Evaluate, improve, and ensure the effective implementation of management systems within operations 

Who we are looking for 

• A people-focused leader who ensures EHS compliance and fosters a strong safety culture 

• An engineer with experience in metallurgical or chemical process and project management 

• A business-oriented professional with a holistic understanding of metallurgical or chemical operations and a proven track record in managing effective production teams 

• An efficient, persuasive, and engaging communicator 

• A thoughtful and systematic decision-maker who balances employee well-being, customer satisfaction, quality, and long-term results in problem-solving 

What we offer 

We aim to lead the way. Not just for our customers, but for our employees too. That is why we strive to create a collaborative environment in which we can all succeed, and a culture through which we can all share ideas, develop our expertise and advance our careers. We engage in building an inclusive work culture that offers equal opportunities for all employees irrespective of their diverse backgrounds. As you would expect from a world-leading organisation, we will also reward your contribution with a competitive salary and benefits. With all this and more, imagine what you could do? 

If our recycling teams can help tackle  resource scarcity, IMAGINE WHAT YOU COULD DO?