Operations Manager

Company Description About EIT RawMaterials As the world moves towards a greener future, the demand for raw materials—minerals and metals—is set to increase immensely over the next three decades. Europe faces a critical challenge in securing a stable supply of these essential resources, and this is where EIT RawMaterials steps in. EIT RawMaterials is at the forefront of driving innovation and sustainability in the raw materials sector. As an Innovation Community within the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), we collaborate with over 300 partners across industry, academia, and research institutes. Together, we forge dynamic, long-term partnerships to develop innovative solutions that meet Europe's growing demand for raw materials.The Role We are seeking a highly skilled Operations Manager (m/f/d) to lead operational and grant cycle related processes of the European Raw Materials Academy and European Advanced Materials Academy . This role is central to the success of both Academies, ensuring all activities are compliant with Horizon Europe guidelines, accurately reported, efficient, and strategically aligned with the Academies’ mandates. The Operations Manager will oversee performance tracking, project reporting, and financial assurance activities — ensuring accurate cost eligibility, timely deliverable submissions, and adherence to EU audit and compliance standards. This role requires exceptional organisational and analytical skills, deep knowledge of Horizon Europe and European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) rules, and a proactive approach to managing complex, multi-partner initiatives with large budgets. The successful candidate will serve as the operational backbone of the Academies, coordinating processes related to the Academies implementation, including but not exclusive to KPI, performance and financial reporting cycles across multiple work packages. Tasks and Responsibilities Grant and Financial Management Oversee financial reporting, cost eligibility, and budget management across both Academies in line with Horizon Europe, EIT, and national funding rules. Maintain and administer the overall budget of the Academies to ensure the budget remains on track and that costs meet eligibility standards before they are incurred. Oversee the implementation of the grant agreement, preparation of agreements with key stakeholders, and coordination of approval and signing processes for relevant agreements and contracts. Reporting and Documentation Coordinate and compile technical and financial reports in close collaboration with the Finance Department for submission to the European Commission, EIT RawMaterials, and other governing bodies. Ensure consistency between narrative and financial reporting, maintaining high standards of clarity, accuracy, and accountability. Process Design and Improvement Streamline operational workflows and establish standardized procedures for monitoring performance, budget utilization, and risk management. Introduce best practices for grant tracking and reporting automation, improving transparency and efficiency across teams. Performance Tracking Support the implementation of an efficient, smart system for recording, measuring, and tracking the Academies' key performance indicators (KPIs), allowing stakeholders to see the projects' updated numbers and performance metrics at any given point in time. Stakeholder and Partner Management Work closely with internal project leads, financial controllers, and partner institutions to ensure accurate performance and financial reporting and timely submissions. Provide guidance on EIT and Horizon Europe rules, documentation standards, and financial reporting. What We’re Looking For A detail-oriented and analytical professional with proven experience in EU grant and project management , ideally under Horizon Europe , EIT , or similar European research and innovation frameworks. Strong expertise in financial reporting, cost eligibility, and audit compliance for multi-partner EU-funded projects Demonstrated experience managing complex deliverables, milestones, and KPI submissions for large international consortia. Advanced proficiency in creating and managing a system that efficiently captures and tracks the KPIs of complex projects. Strong numeracy and financial literacy skills; background in operations, finance, accounting, or project administration. Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple priorities and deadlines across dispersed teams. Familiarity with digital grant management tools (e.g., Funding & Tenders Portal, SyGMa, or other reporting systems). Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and precision in documentation. A collaborative and proactive mindset, capable of working across functions (finance, operations, education, and partnerships). Desirable: Experience within the EIT Ecosystem Knowledge of German funding rules and relevant national regulations Knowledge of education or training project structures Familiarity with risk and performance management frameworks Passion for the EIT RawMaterials mission of driving innovation along the raw and advanced materials value chains Why You’ll Love It Here Be Part of Something Big: Contribute to shaping Europe’s education and innovation landscape in materials and sustainability. Lead with Impact: Ensure the operational and financial excellence of flagship EU education programs.Remote Flexibility: Work from anywhere in Europe while collaborating with a dynamic, international team. Innovative Environment: Operate at the crossroads of education, innovation, and policy — delivering tangible results with global impact. Career Growth: Join a mission-driven organization that invests in your professional development and provides opportunities to lead complex, high-visibility projects. This is a full-time, remote position open to candidates located anywhere within the EU. Duration: 2025–2028 (with potential extension). Our Recruitment Process The position will stay open until a successful candidate is chosen. Application Review: Our team thoroughly reviews each application. Please make sure to submit your CV in English. Initial Interview (30 minutes): Meet with the hiring manager and recruitment team. Second Interview (60 minutes): Second interview with a presentation on a relevant topic to the hiring manager and HR. Offer: If successful, receive an offer to join our team. Ready to shape the future with us? Apply now.