Job Description

Octric is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and hands-on CEO to drive both immediate performance improvements and long-term business transformation. Taking over from the interim CEO, the successful candidate will be responsible for building a world-class leadership team, overseeing a major capital investment programme, and spearheading business development initiatives to transition the company from its current loss-making position to a sustainable and profitable enterprise. As the CEO of a government-owned entity, the role carries accountability to the MOD for financial stewardship and compliance, with direct reporting to Ministers.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a company at the heart of the UK's defence semiconductor strategy, with full government backing and a clear mandate for growth. With a significant investment pipeline and ambitious expansion plans, the incoming CEO will play a crucial role in shaping the future of a business with both national security and commercial significance.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic leadership:Develop and execute a robust growth strategy aligned with the MOD's defence priorities and commercial market opportunities. Expand Octric's revenue streams by securing new defence and non-defence contracts. Lead integration efforts for new business units and drive investment funding strategies. Position Octric as an innovation leader in the semiconductor sector.


Building a high-performing team:Recruit and develop a world-class executive team capable of delivering on Octric's ambitious growth plans. Foster a high-performance culture that encourages innovation, accountability, and excellence. Ensure the retention and development of top talent to future-proof the organisation.


Operational excellence:Oversee complex manufacturing operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and scalability. Manage human resources effectively, shaping a positive workplace culture. Identify and mitigate operational and financial risks. Ensure full compliance with defence sector regulations, including health, safety, and environmental standards. Maintain rigorous financial controls and transparent reporting to the MOD. Champion research and development efforts to drive technological advancements.


Stakeholder engagement and governance:Cultivate strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, defence clients, suppliers, and contractors. Maintain an effective partnership with the Chair and Non-Executive Directors to align company strategy with governance priorities. Represent Octric in industry discussions on semiconductor strategy and national security of supply. Ensure clear and compelling communication of the company's vision and strategy to internal and external audiences.

The Candidate

Experience and Professional QualificationsProven track record as a CEO or senior executive in a high-tech or advanced manufacturing environment. Experience in the defence or aerospace sector is highly desirable. Strong background in business transformation, financial turnaround, and capital investment management. Demonstrated ability to engage with government stakeholders and navigate public-sector governance. Experience in the semiconductor industry is advantageous but not essential. Must be a UK national capable of obtaining security clearance.


Skills and CompetenciesVisionary leadership: A strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into action. Hands-on approach: Willingness to be deeply involved in day-to-day operations while driving long-term strategy. Excellent communicator: Strong influencing skills with the ability to engage at all levels. Integrity & accountability: Demonstrates high ethical standards and transparency. Resilience & agility: Able to lead through complex challenges and uncertainty. Innovation mindset: Passionate about technology and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.


Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates, and will refer candidates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected basis.