Head of Thin Film Business Unit
Location: United States (Preferred: Major tech/manufacturing regions)
Travel: 50–75%, as required
Reports To: VP of Sales & Marketing
About the Role
Vital is seeking a seasoned and strategic leader to head its Thin Film Business Unit in the Americas, overseeing a diverse and growing portfolio that includes PVD materials, deposition equipment, recycling services, and related consumables.
This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for setting direction, driving commercial results, and managing a cross-functional team of direct reports. The role covers the full spectrum of thin film technologies, with a strong presence in semiconductor, glass, solar, and precision optics markets.
The business unit spans the sale and service of:
- PVD materials (sputtering targets, evaporative materials)
- Thin film equipment (inline, cluster, drum, roll-to-roll systems)
- Consumables (e.g., PBN crucibles, etc.)
- Recycling services for reclaiming high-value materials
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Thin Film Business Unit, managing a team of 5–10 professionals across sales, technical, and support functions
- Develop and execute the business strategy for materials, equipment, and services across key markets
- Own and manage budgets, sales quotas, and performance tracking for the business unit
- Drive customer engagement and growth in semiconductor, glass, solar, and optics sectors
- Coordinate with global operations, manufacturing, and R&D to align product offerings with customer needs
- Build strong customer relationships across Key Accounts and ensure high levels of service and responsiveness
- Provide strategic insight into market trends and emerging opportunities
- Guide internal teams on product introduction, pricing, and go-to-market strategy
- Support continuous improvement in supply chain, inventory planning, and materials forecasting
Qualifications
- 8–15 years of experience in industries served by PVD technologies
- Demonstrated leadership of cross-functional or commercial teams, including direct management experience (5–10 reports)
- Strong technical background in PVD processes, deposition equipment, or specialty materials
- Familiarity with upstream and downstream supply chains relevant to sputter target manufacturing
- Proven track record in budget management, sales forecasting, and customer growth strategies
- Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills; ability to lead both strategically and tactically
- Willingness to travel (domestic/international) as needed to support customer and team success
Preferred Experience
- Direct experience in one or more of the following industries: semiconductor, glass, solar, optics
- Understanding of recycling and reclaim operations for high-value materials (e.g., precious metals)
- Background in engineering, materials science, physics, or a related technical discipline
- Prior exposure to global supply chains or international manufacturing environments
