At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product development strategy and manage multiple innovative projects.
- Company: Fast-growing international manufacturing business with a strong consumer brand.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence product portfolio and work with an entrepreneurial leadership team.
- Other info: Join at a pivotal growth stage with exceptional career impact opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of products in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in product development and strong project management skills.
We're recruiting on behalf of a confidential client – a fast-growing international manufacturing business with an established consumer brand and ambitious plans for significant global growth. Following a period of exceptional success, the business is investing in its leadership team to support the next stage of expansion and is seeking an experienced Head of Product Development to shape its future product portfolio.
The Role
Reporting into the senior leadership team, the Head of Product Development will take ownership of the product development strategy, managing multiple concurrent projects whilst balancing innovation, commercial priorities and operational delivery. Working closely alongside a newly established PMO function, this role will ensure new product initiatives remain aligned to wider business priorities, whilst collaborating with manufacturing, sourcing, engineering, operations, marketing and commercial teams to bring products successfully to market. This is a highly visible leadership role within a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment where priorities can change quickly. Success will require strong organisation, commercial awareness and the ability to manage multiple competing initiatives simultaneously.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and execute the company's product development roadmap.
- Lead the end-to-end product lifecycle from concept through design, development, testing and launch.
- Manage multiple product development projects simultaneously, ensuring delivery against agreed timelines.
- Work collaboratively with the PMO to prioritise projects and manage interdependencies across the wider business.
- Partner with suppliers and manufacturing teams to develop innovative, commercially viable products.
- Identify market trends, customer insights and competitor activity to shape future product strategy.
- Ensure products meet quality, compliance and regulatory requirements across international markets.
- Work closely with Sales and Marketing to support successful product launches.
- Build effective relationships across Operations, Supply Chain, Procurement and Manufacturing.
- Introduce robust product development processes, governance and stage-gate reviews.
- Manage budgets, project risks and resource planning.
About You
We're looking for an experienced Product Development leader who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment. You'll combine strategic thinking with a hands-on approach and be comfortable managing several high-profile projects whilst influencing senior stakeholders across the organisation. Ideally you'll have:
- Proven experience leading Product Development within a manufacturing or consumer products business.
- Experience delivering physical products from concept through to commercial launch.
- Strong project management capability with the ability to balance competing priorities.
- Experience working cross-functionally across engineering, operations, sourcing and commercial teams.
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.
- Strong commercial awareness with a customer-first mindset.
- Experience operating within a fast-growth or entrepreneurial business would be advantageous.
- Degree qualified in Engineering, Product Design, Manufacturing or a related discipline (preferred).
Why Join?
This is a rare opportunity to join an ambitious international business at a pivotal point in its growth journey. You'll have genuine influence over the future product portfolio whilst working alongside an entrepreneurial leadership team committed to innovation, investment and international expansion. For an experienced Product Development professional who enjoys driving innovation, leading cross-functional teams and making a visible commercial impact, this role offers exceptional scope to shape both products and the future direction of the business.
Head of Product Development in Chesterfield employer: Axon Moore
Axon Moore is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and creative work culture in Ulverston, where innovation thrives. With a competitive salary of up to £45,000, generous benefits including 25 days holiday, and a strong emphasis on employee development, this role as Playground Design Manager offers the chance to lead impactful projects while growing your career in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Product Development in Chesterfield
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Axon Moore, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Product Development in Chesterfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Axon Moore specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Axon Moore
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Axon Moore, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Axon Moore value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
