A day in the life of the Product Development Director involves managing and coordinating product development projects by focusing on technical feasibility, design optimization, and production issues. They must also be able to plan the steps of going from conceptualization to final product. Before the final product, the Product Development Director must help determine the materials needed to create the product, potential designs, and how the product can be marketed. During the production process, this position must document and write reports on the current status of the product. This role will also be tasked with managing project budgets and preparing financial analysis reports for senior management. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets.
This role calls for someone with excellent communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Requirements
BS or MS in Engineering, mechanical preferred.
Minimum 8 years of experience in product management, new product development, manufacturing, or related field.
Excellent understanding of mechanical engineering principles, specifically thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and physical science.
Experience with simulation & analysis methods (FEA, CFD, and statistical tolerance analysis).
Ability to work with 2D/3D software.
Excellent interpersonal skills to effectively communicate technical information to diverse groups of people.
Excellent presentation skills.
Previous experience in leading a cross-functional team to launch new products.
Proven ability to multi-task, set project priorities, goals and objectives
Candidates must be authorized to lawfully work in the United States.
Specific responsibilities include the following
Manages multiple product development programs
Coordinates with marketing to define the Voice of Customer (VoC) and go-to-market strategy for new products or product changes
Develops and delivers product strategy presentations
Lead and participates in cost reduction and profit improvement efforts
Manage all activities for product development and prepare project schedule.
Update FMEA/Risk Analysis/Technology Readiness
Acts as subject matter expert for electromechanical products
Participate and schedule design reviews
Data driven decision making