VP Process Development

Overview

Due to internal progression, we have an exceptional new opportunity for a VP Process Development to join the growing Operations function at Pragmatic Semiconductor. Based in Durham, UK, and reporting to the SVP Manufacturing & Operations, this is a key leadership position with full strategic responsibility for the development of world-class process technology for advanced semiconductor manufacturing.

The ideal candidate will bring highly significant experience in semiconductor process development, as well as a proven track record of leading and developing high-performing teams. While this is a VP level role, we are also open to receiving applications from candidates currently operating at Head of/Director/Senior Director level.

We are offering a highly competitive benefits package for this position, including Visa/Relocation support (if applicable) to the North East of England, where our new, state of the art fab is based.

Key tasks

• Lead, mentor and develop a semiconductor Process Development team, including Engineers up to Principal level and technicians, to deliver world-class process technology for advanced semiconductor manufacturing, while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Define, drive and execute the strategic roadmap for process development, ensuring alignment with company objectives, technology roadmaps, and product requirements.
• Collaborate with R&D, product engineering, and operations teams to integrate new processes into high-volume manufacturing environments while ensuring scalability, yield, and cost-effectiveness.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to resolve technical challenges and optimise processes for both new and existing products.
• Provide leadership in key technical areas such as flexible substrate, lithography, wet and dry etching, reactive deposition (PECVD, ALD, PVD), metallisation, thermal and laser materials processing, ensuring best-in-class process solutions.
• Lead the development of new materials, techniques, and equipment that can drive innovation in semiconductor manufacturing.
• Drive process characterisation, optimisation, and failure analysis to ensure high-quality production outputs.
• Stay at the forefront of industry advancements, identifying and evaluating emerging technologies, inspection and analysis techniques and process improvements, providing insight and thought leadership to the business.
• Represent the company at industry conferences, technical forums, and customer meetings to establish thought leadership and build strong partnerships.

Qualifications and training

The ideal candidate for this role will be educated to Bachelor’s or Master's degree level in a relevant field such as Physics, Materials Science, Electrical/Electronics or Chemical Engineering (PhD would be advantageous).

Skills and experience

• Significant and broad experience in semiconductor process development, with proven experience in a leadership position, inspiring action across teams.
• Track record of driving successful product and technology roadmaps.
• Excellent knowledge of semiconductor fabrication processes and equipment, with hands-on experience in process development and scaling to high-volume manufacturing.
• Demonstrated expertise in process integration, technology transfer, yield improvement, and advanced process technologies such as advanced packaging.
• Demonstrable strategic mindset, capable of understanding both short-term and long-term technology needs and balancing them with business objectives.
• Knowledge of sustainability and environmental regulations in semiconductor manufacturing (desirable).
• Experience with emerging semiconductor materials (e.g., graphene, gallium nitride, IGZO) or processes relating to flexible substrates on carrier (desirable).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate at all levels of the organisation.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical skills.

Pragmatic is committed to equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion; we strive to welcome everyone and create inclusive teams. We celebrate difference and encourage everyone to be themselves at work. Please let us know if you would like any adjustments to our application and interview process.