Manager Technology & Innovation

Korn Ferry; Spruce Pine (NC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Prescription drug benefits

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Critical illness insurance

401(k) plan

Job summary

Korn Ferry has partnered with Sibelco in Spruce Pine, NC to recruit for a Product & Application Manager role focused on AI value chain initiatives. You will lead product development projects, manage resources, and set a clear product vision aligned with business goals.

The position requires advanced science education (Master’s or PhD preferred) and 2–5 years in product/app development, with strong industry knowledge in AI, semiconductors, and related materials.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in science (Engineering, Chemistry, Materials) with PhD preferred.
• 2–5 years of product and application development experience.
• Strong technical understanding of AI, semiconductors, data centers, optical fiber, and related industries.

Responsibilities

• Lead product and application development projects from conception to launch.
• Manage day-to-day resources, equipment and team.
• Develop and communicate a clear product vision and strategy.
• Coordinate with HR and internal customers to support staff welfare and team performance.

Skills

Product and Application Development

Technical understanding of AI/semicon

Team leadership

Education

Master’s degree in science

PhD preferred

Job description

Korn Ferry has partnered with our client on their search for a role, Manager Technology & Innovation.

Location: Spruce Pine, NC

At Sibelco, we advance life through materials.

Sibelco is a global leader in the production of high purity quartz, a critical component in the manufacturing of semiconductors, photovoltaic cells, and high-intensity quartz lightbulbs. Our mines and processing facilities in Spruce Pine, NC, have been operational for over a century. In response to the increasing demand for our products, we are committed to expanding our business and enhancing our team of world-class professionals.

Are We the Perfect Match?

At Sibelco, we believe building a successful career is a two-way journey. We’re looking for individuals who share our values and vision, just as much as you’re seeking a company that aligns with your aspirations. Together, we can shape the future.

This role is closely tied to U.S. CHIPS Act funding, positioning Sibelco and this opportunity at the forefront of the rapidly growing AI value chain.

Your Impact in This Role

As our Product & Application Manager, your responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Manage Product and Application development projects
• Manage the day-to-day resources, equipment, and team
• Develop and communicate a clear product vision and strategy
• Align product goals with the overall business objectives
• Analyses competitive products and market conditions
• Evaluate and prioritize ideas based on feasibility and market potential
• Plan and manage the product development lifecycle from conception to launch
• Oversee the design and development of new products
• Monitor performance and gather customer feedback.
• Identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure adherence to the Safety standards and housekeeping 5S procedures
• Develop standard analysis methods/procedures in case of new equipment
• Ensure adequate training is provided and test procedures are maintained and adhered to Coordinate calibration and servicing of instrumentation to ensure valid results and timely results
• Advise on test requirements and procedures and assess validity of results produced
• Initiate continuous improvement within the laboratory
• Motivate and evaluate the team members to enhance team collaboration and support their individual development and growth.
• Liaise with HR and internal Sibelco customers to coordinate staff welfare, team working and legislative issues.
• Set up a planning (middle and long term), by prioritizing workload and organizing resources to maintain an efficient, cost effective and organized departments.
• Liaise with internal customers and technical services team to achieve workable expectations

What You Bring to the Table

In depth technical understanding of AI, semiconductor, data center, optical fiber, specialty glass and related industries. Good understanding of HPQ and other silicates in terms of mineralogy and processing is also desired, but not a must.

• At least master’s degree in science, e.g. Engineering, Chemistry Materials or similar. PhD is preferred.
• Substantial experience (2-5 yr) in Product and Application Development space is required

Competitive regional salary with eligibility for annual bonus and equity. Salary is to be determined based on job-related factors including, but not limited to, skills, experience, qualifications, alignment with market data and internal equity.

Sibelco provides a premium employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members: medical insurance, prescription drug benefits, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, critical illness insurance, 401(k) retirement savings plan.

Why Join Us?

Sibelco is more than a workplace—it’s a community that encourages growth, innovation, and collaboration. Here’s what you can look forward to when you join our team:

• Meet Our People
• Learn About Our Recruitment Process
• Discover Our Sustainability Goals

We also welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments to support you through the selection process.

Sibelco is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.