Cambridge Mechatronics
Shanghai, China · Shenzhen, Guangdong, China · China
Cambridge Mechatronics Ltd (CML) is a globally recognised fabless semiconductor company headquartered in Cambridge, UK. CML is pioneering Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuator systems that deliver breakthrough performance in high-precision, high-volume applications such as smartphones, AR/VR head-mounted devices, and compact medical instruments.
With a multi-disciplinary global team spanning materials science, mechanical design, electronics, and software, CML develops complete actuator system solutions — including the SMA actuator, control ICs, and advanced algorithms.
CML holds approximately 850 granted and pending patents and ranks among the top 25 UK patent filers, reflecting our strong commitment to innovation and technology leadership.
We are seeking a highly experienced Actuator Manufacturing Manager to lead and strengthen CML’s manufacturing capability across our partner network in China.
This is a critical, high-impact role focused on scaling next-generation SMA actuator products. You will bring deep expertise from high-volume actuator manufacturing—ideally from a leading VCM manufacturer—and apply this to drive cost, yield, scalability, and competitive advantage for CML’s technology.
Own and manage relationships with key actuator vendors
Lead price, royalty, and contract negotiations
Oversee supplier engagement for sample builds, NPI, and production ramp
Act as the primary interface between CML and manufacturing partners in China
Drive cost reduction initiatives across actuator manufacturing and supply chain
Lead design and process optimisation to improve efficiency and reduce waste
Deliver production yield improvements at vendor sites
Reduce and optimise CAPEX through equipment strategy and standardisation
Develop and own relationships with SMA equipment suppliers
Establish standardised test equipment and manufacturing processes across all partners
Reduce equipment cost while ensuring performance, consistency, and scalability
Lead Design for Manufacturing (DFM) reviews for new products and product variants
Drive design and process optimisation to ensure robust, high-yield manufacturing
Partner with engineering teams to ensure seamless transition from development to mass production
Improve the scalability of SMA products with focus on:
Define and implement scalable manufacturing strategies to support high-volume deployment
Enhance CML’s prototyping capabilities by:
Building strong relationships with component suppliers (e.g. moulding companies)
Negotiating competitive pricing for rapid prototype builds
Support strategic decisions on investment in internal prototyping capability
Enable rapid delivery of high-quality samples for customer evaluation
Conduct detailed competitor analysis, particularly of Voice Coil Motor (VCM) technologies
Identify and quantify VCM weaknesses and position SMA advantages through direct comparison
Provide market intelligence to support product and commercial strategy
Analyse fundamental performance limits of VCM technology and identify areas where SMA can achieve a sustained competitive advantage
Proficient in English and Chinese; Korean and Japanese desirable
Proven experience leading manufacturing operations in a high-volume actuator environment
Ideally currently (or recently) working within a VCM actuator manufacturer in China, Korea, or Japan
Strong expertise in DFM, process optimisation, yield improvement, and production scale-up
Demonstrated success in supplier management, commercial negotiation, and cost reduction
Experience working with manufacturing ecosystems in China
Solid understanding of precision assembly, automation, and capital equipment strategy
Ability to bridge technical and commercial decision-making
Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence external partners
Highly results-driven with a focus on execution and delivery
Commercially astute with strong negotiation skills
Hands-on, pragmatic, and comfortable operating in fast-paced environments
Excellent cross-cultural communication skills
Willingness to travel as required across China and internationally
Lead the manufacturing scale-up of a disruptive actuator technology
Play a key role in challenging and outperforming incumbent VCM solutions
Work with a globally recognised innovator with a strong patent portfolio
Influence both technical direction and commercial success in a high-growth market