New Product Development Manager in Saffron Walden

Artifex Interior Systems is pleased to confirm the below opportunity within our business:

Main purpose of the job

The primary purpose will be to develop, write and deliver the methodology of how to execute new Programs the ‘Artifex way' that ensures a robust, high quality and profitable Program delivered on time. This will involve working with key functional leads across the business to identify ‘what good looks like' in all of the different disciplines and building that all together into a coherent plan that can be followed by everyone in the business.

Main missions and results

• Work with all areas of the business to build the work streams for each functional area in support of a designated customer Program, identifying what ‘good looks like' for each team and drawing that out into something that makes sense.
• Build all areas into one coherent plan, working most closely with the head of Program Management, Engineering and Manufacturing/Launch to ensure the key needs of the Program are covered.
• Identify needed processes, procedures and systems along the way and taking live decisions on which ones need to be actioned as you go, and which ones can be delivered later.
• Chair regular sessions with key stakeholders to manage conflicts between areas related to timing, needed outputs, process and system requirements.
• Work with HR and training team to develop training programs to ensure that the methodology can be well integrated, easy to follow and becomes part of everyone's daily working life.
• Be responsible for enabling lessons learnt and continuous improvement of the Product development methodology.
• Work with key system providers to roll the authored methodology into a chosen software system that can integrate into or with the existing or new company systems without adding further complexity into how we manage and deliver programs.
• Manage a small team of direct and indirect reports to author the processes and procedures that are identified as part of the methodology creation.

Preferred skills and experience

• Experience in authoring or being part of a team who have authored a new product development process/methodology for a technology company, preferably in Automotive.
• A degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Manufacturing or Program management.
• Must have a good technical (Engineering) and manufacturing understanding in a premium goods industry, preferably automotive.
• Must have demonstrable experience (either directly or indirectly) in managing a team of people to achieve a program of work.

Note: this is not an exhaustive list. All employees are expected to show flexibility and continued self-development to meet the ever-changing needs of the business. All job descriptions / vacancy notices will be subject to continual development.

Internal closing date: Wednesday, 3rd December 2025. Please note if you apply after this date that you may still be progressed, but depending on the volume of applications we are unable to guarantee the ability to accommodate.

Artifex is an equal opportunities employer and committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce. Our aim is that our workforce will be truly representative of all sections of society and each employee feels respected and able to give their best. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination. We are committed to creating an environment in which individual differences and the contributions of all our staff are recognised.

If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV with your contact details. If this job isn't quite what you are looking for but you are looking for a new position within Automotive, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.