Chief Operating Officer

Singular Photonics is a pioneering UK-based spin-out from the
University of Edinburgh designing and developing Single-Photon
Avalanche Diode (SPAD) sensors that advance the frontiers of
imaging technology. Our solutions drive breakthroughs across LiDAR
fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) spectroscopy and time-resolved
optical measurements turning deep photonics expertise into
commercially viable high-impact products. Based in Scotland we
combine world-class research with real-world market impact.

Tasks

We are seeking a hands-on Chief Operating Officer to build and
lead the operational foundation of Singular Photonics. This is a rare
opportunity to shape a deep-tech startups journey from engineering
prototypes to scalable compliant commercial production.
Reporting to the CEO the COO will own operations across
manufacturing supply chain quality regulatory compliance people
operations IT systems and day-to-day business infrastructure
ensuring the company can reliably deliver products as it scales
globally.

What Youll Do

• Lead the transition from lab prototypes to repeatable scalable manufacturing processes.
• Establish operational systems: ERP manufacturing execution inventory and quality frameworks.
• Build compliant supply chain logistics and export control processes for global markets.
• Drive operational excellence including cost quality yield and delivery performance.
• Own people operations including hiring performance management HR policies and culture-building.
• Oversee facilities health & safety and operational IT systems ensuring readiness for scale.
• Collaborate closely with R&D to ensure products are manufacturable and market-ready.
• Act as a key member of the executive leadership team translating company strategy into operational execution.

Requirements

What Were Looking For

• Proven operations leadership (10 years) ideally in scaling high-tech manufacturing.
• Deep experience bridging engineering innovation and commercial production.
• Expertise in manufacturing systems supply chain procurement logistics and export compliance.
• Strong project management and technical collaboration skills in a deep-tech environment.
• Startup or high-growth technology experience with a hands-on pragmatic approach.
• Degree in Operations Engineering Business or related field; advanced qualifications advantageous.

Key Attributes

• Pragmatic problem-solver with attention to detail and operational rigor.
• Systems thinker who can build scalable processes without bureaucracy.
• Collaborative leader with strong interpersonal skills across technical and commercial teams.
• Resilient accountable and comfortable in a fast-moving startup environment.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to adapt infrastructure to growth needs.

Benefits

What We Offer

• Competitive salary & benefits package
• Remote work flexibility with occasional in-office collaboration for planning and innovation
• Career growth & training opportunities in advanced photonics and embedded systems
• Health & wellbeing support to help you thrive personally and professionally
• Collaborative innovative culture where your input makes a real impact
• International exposure working on projects that influence global imaging technology
• Work-life balance with flexibility and support to recharge outside of work

This is a unique opportunity to shape the operational backbone of
one of the UKs most innovative photonics companies. As COO
you will directly influence the transformation of breakthrough sensor
technologies into commercial products driving global delivery from
the heart of Scotland.