Project Manager, Legal and Global Affairs

II-VI UK, Ltd.; Glasgow; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading photonics company in Glasgow seeks an experienced Project Manager for Legal & Global Affairs. You will support senior leadership on strategic initiatives and manage complex projects, enhancing operational effectiveness. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree, 4–6 years of relevant experience, and knowledge in project management. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is required, and familiarity with the semiconductor industry is advantageous. This role offers a hybrid work model with three days on-site each week.

Qualifications

• 4–6 years of relevant experience in corporate legal, compliance, government affairs, or external affairs.
• Proven experience in managing complex projects focused on process improvement.
• PMP or similar certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support senior leadership on strategic initiatives and projects.
• Develop and manage project plans and track progress.
• Identify and implement process improvements leveraging technology.

Skills

Project and program management

Attention to detail

Analytical mindset

Interpersonal and communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, SharePoint)

Job description

Coherent empowers market innovators to define the future through breakthrough photonics technologies — from advanced materials to complete laser and optical systems. Our innovations drive impact across industrial, communications, electronics, and instrumentation markets, helping customers solve complex challenges and unlock new possibilities.

Based at the Scotland Science Park, Glasgow, we design and build world-leading laser systems that power innovation across industries — from renewable energy and microelectronics to life sciences, medicine, and fundamental research. Our mission is simple: to make a real difference by delivering lasers known for exceptional reliability, performance, and precision.

Location: Glasgow | Hybrid: 3 days on-site per week

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking an experienced, highly organised Project Manager, Legal & Global Affairs to support strategic initiatives, regional engagements, and day-to-day operations across our Legal and Global Affairs function.

Working closely with senior leadership—including the VP, Strategy & Operations and the Chief Legal & Global Affairs Officer—you will play a key role in driving execution, enhancing operational effectiveness, and ensuring critical initiatives are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Project Management

• Support senior leadership on strategic initiatives and special projects across Legal & Global Affairs, including UK-focused regional engagements.
• Develop and manage project plans, track progress, risks, budgets, and dependencies, and ensure delivery on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Lead project meetings, provide clear status updates, and proactively drive initiatives forward.

Operations & Business Support

• Support day-to-day operations of the Legal & Global Affairs function.
• Partner with Legal Operations on workflows, technology, outside counsel and vendor management, and financial processes.
• Coordinate executive calendars, travel, expenses, and meeting preparation, including agendas, materials, logistics, minutes, and action tracking.
• Assist with on-boarding and off-boarding in collaboration with HR.

Process Improvement & Innovation

• Identify and implement opportunities to improve efficiency and outcomes.
• Leverage AI, automation, and technology to streamline repeatable tasks.
• Create templates, document processes, and support scalable process improvements across the function.

ABOUT YOU

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, with 4–6 years of relevant experience in a corporate legal, compliance, government affairs, public policy, or external affairs environment
• Proven experience supporting senior leaders and managing complex projects, with a strong focus on process improvement
• Strong understanding of project and program management principles; PMP or similar certification is a plus
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, SharePoint)
• Experience in the semiconductor and/or manufacturing industry is a plus

Skills & Attributes

• Exceptional attention to detail, particularly in written communication
• Analytical, solution-oriented mindset with the ability to multitask in fast-paced environments
• Professional and discreet when handling sensitive information
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills in a global, multicultural setting

CULTURE COMMITMENT

Ensure adherence to company’s values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent:

• Integrity – Create an Environment of Trust
• Collaboration – Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
• Accountability – Own the Process and the Outcome
• Respect – Recognize the Value in Everyone
• Enthusiasm – Find a Sense of Purpose in Work

Current employees who wish to apply should submit a cover letter detailing their interest in the position and how their skills and experience align with the requirements of the role.