Role Overview for VP, Advanced Manufacturing Technology with a Semiconductor OEM – Phoenix, AZ
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a globally recognized leader in the semiconductor equipment manufacturing (OEM) sector in their search for a transformative Vice President of Advanced Manufacturing Technology. This is a paramount executive leadership role based in the thriving technology hub of Phoenix, Arizona. The successful candidate will be the central figure in defining and executing the company’s next-generation manufacturing strategy, ensuring its position at the forefront of technological innovation and market leadership.
Our client is a pillar of the semiconductor industry, renowned for developing and producing the critical equipment that powers the world’s most advanced electronics. This role is not merely about overseeing current operations; it is about architecting the future. The VP of Advanced Manufacturing Technology will be responsible for a multi-year technology roadmap, spearheading research and development into groundbreaking processes, materials, and automation solutions. You will lead a world-class organization of engineers and scientists, fostering a culture of relentless innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
This position demands a unique blend of deep technical expertise in semiconductor fabrication, strategic vision, and inspirational leadership. You will be the driving force behind the company’s Industry 4.0 initiatives, integrating AI, machine learning, and data analytics into the manufacturing ecosystem to create a truly smart factory environment. Your work will directly impact product quality, manufacturing yield, production cost, and the speed at which new technologies are brought to market. This is a career-defining opportunity for a visionary leader to make a lasting impact on a key player in the global technology landscape and shape the future of semiconductor manufacturing from a strategic command center in Phoenix.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Advanced Manufacturing Technology with a Semiconductor OEM – Phoenix, AZ
Strategic Technology Roadmapping
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-term advanced manufacturing technology roadmap. This strategy must align with corporate objectives, anticipate future industry trends, and secure the company’s competitive advantage in the market.
Innovation and R&D Leadership
Champion and direct the research, development, and implementation of next-generation manufacturing technologies. This includes exploring novel materials, pioneering new fabrication processes (e.g., advanced deposition, etching, lithography techniques), and integrating cutting-edge metrology and inspection systems.
Process Development and Optimization
Lead the creation of robust, high-yield, and scalable manufacturing processes for New Product Introduction (NPI). Drive a culture of continuous improvement across all manufacturing technology functions, utilizing methodologies like Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and statistical process control (SPC) to enhance efficiency, reduce cycle times, and lower operational costs.
Smart Factory & Industry 4.0 Vision
Architect and implement the company’s smart factory vision. Lead initiatives in automation, robotics, IoT integration, and the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to optimize process control, enable predictive maintenance, and unlock actionable insights from manufacturing data.
Cross-Functional Collaboration and Influence
Serve as a key partner to the executive leadership team. Collaborate intimately with R&D, Product Engineering, Supply Chain, and Global Operations to ensure seamless technology transfer from development to high-volume manufacturing. Your ability to influence and align stakeholders across the organization will be critical to your success.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Build, mentor, and lead a world-class, multi-disciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and technicians. Foster an inclusive and dynamic culture that encourages creativity, risk-taking, and a passion for solving complex technical challenges. Be responsible for talent acquisition, performance management, and succession planning within your organization.
Capital Investment and Asset Strategy
Define and manage the multi-million dollar capital investment strategy for new manufacturing equipment, facilities, and enabling technologies. Lead the technical evaluation, selection, and qualification of new tools and vendor partnerships.
Intellectual Property Management
Drive the strategic creation and protection of the company’s intellectual property portfolio related to manufacturing processes, equipment modifications, and proprietary technologies.
Industry Engagement and Thought Leadership
Act as a key technical representative for the company within the broader technology community. Stay abreast of emerging trends in the global semiconductor industry by participating in industry consortiums, technical conferences, and strategic partnerships with academia and research institutions.
Quality, Reliability, and Safety
Uphold the highest standards of quality and reliability for all developed processes and technologies. Ensure that all manufacturing technology initiatives comply with rigorous industry and company safety protocols.
Requirements for the VP, Advanced Manufacturing Technology with a Semiconductor OEM – Phoenix, AZ
Educational Background
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a relevant technical discipline such as Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience within the semiconductor manufacturing or semiconductor equipment (OEM) industry. This must include at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership capacity (Director, Sr. Director, or VP level) with a proven track record of managing large, technical organizations.
Deep Technical Expertise
Demonstrated, hands-on expertise across a wide range of semiconductor fabrication processes, such as thin film deposition (PVD, CVD, ALD), photolithography, plasma etch, chemical mechanical planarization (CMP), advanced packaging, and associated metrology. Deep understanding of semiconductor device physics, materials science, and process integration is essential.
Visionary Leadership
Proven ability to inspire and lead high-performing teams to achieve ambitious goals. A history of successfully developing talent and building a culture of innovation and accountability. Must be able to set a clear vision and motivate others to follow it.
Strategic and Business Acumen
Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to translate complex technical concepts and market trends into a coherent, actionable technology roadmap. Experience with budget management, ROI analysis, and long-range financial planning for a large technical department.
Exceptional Communication Skills
World-class communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate a compelling technical and strategic vision to a wide range of audiences, from the engineering team to the Board of Directors and key customers.
Data-Driven Decision Making
A disciplined, analytical approach to problem-solving. Must be comfortable using data to drive decisions, challenge assumptions, and measure results.
Collaborative Spirit
A proven history of working effectively across functional boundaries in a matrixed organization. The ability to build strong relationships and influence outcomes without direct authority is critical.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a compensation and benefits package commensurate with this critical leadership role. The package includes:
- A highly competitive executive base salary.
- A lucrative annual performance-based bonus plan.
- A significant long-term incentive package, including equity (RSUs/Stock Options).
- A comprehensive executive health and wellness package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- A full executive relocation package to the vibrant Phoenix, AZ metropolitan area.
- Generous paid time off (PTO), company holidays, and flexible work arrangements.
- Support for professional development, including executive coaching and attendance at key industry events.
- The unparalleled opportunity to shape the technological future of a global industry leader from a position of significant influence and impact.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to lead this critical executive search. We are seeking a transformative leader who is ready to embrace the challenge of defining the future of semiconductor manufacturing technology. If your experience and ambitions align with the demands of this role, we encourage you to begin a confidential dialogue with us.
To apply, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your qualifications and strategic vision for this role. For a confidential discussion and to learn more about this exceptional opportunity, please contact our semiconductor executive search experts directly.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
