At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting new product development projects from concept to production.
- Company: Established manufacturing business with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to improve processes and collaborate with diverse teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by bringing new products to life and leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing product development projects and strong planning skills.
The predicted salary is between 33750 - 41250 £ per year.
Haystack Selection is recruiting an NPD Project Manager for an established manufacturing business. This is an opportunity to take ownership of new product development projects from initial concept through testing, validation and production release. You'll bring together the people, plans and processes needed to keep several projects moving, with clear responsibilities and decisions at every stage.
If you enjoy bringing structure to complex projects, working closely with engineering and production teams, and seeing new products reach manufacture, this could be a great next move.
The role
Working closely with Design, Technical, Production and Quality, you'll manage projects through a structured stage-gate process. You'll also lead a small team of technicians carrying out prototype builds, trials and internal testing.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Managing multiple development projects, setting clear plans, milestones, priorities and responsibilities.
- Agreeing project scope, deliverables and acceptance criteria with key stakeholders.
- Monitoring timescales, resources and budgets, identifying risks and resolving issues early.
- Leading project meetings and stage-gate reviews, ensuring actions are followed through and approvals recorded.
- Coordinating prototype builds, internal trials and external testing.
- Ensuring test results, corrective actions and changes are properly documented.
- Confirming products are ready for release, with complete documentation and a clear handover to Production.
- Planning technician workloads and supporting the team's performance and development.
- Improving the development process and providing clear progress updates to senior management.
What we're looking for
You'll have experience managing product development or new product introduction projects within manufacturing, alongside a practical understanding of how products move from concept into production. You'll also bring:
- Experience managing several projects at different stages.
- Knowledge of stage-gate or comparable structured development processes.
- Strong planning, documentation and follow-up skills.
- Confidence coordinating technical teams, suppliers and external testing partners.
- An understanding of prototypes, testing, validation and production readiness.
- People management experience.
- The confidence to challenge incomplete work, follow up on commitments and keep projects moving.
Experience with APQP, quality systems, regulated manufacturing, external certification or product approvals would be useful. A relevant engineering, manufacturing or project management qualification and experience using or developing.
NPD Project Manager employer: Haystack Selection
As a Biomass Technician at our manufacturing site, you'll be part of a dynamic team dedicated to sustainability and innovation. We offer a supportive work culture that values hands-on experience and problem-solving skills, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development. Located in a thriving industrial area, our company provides a unique chance to contribute to environmentally friendly practices while enjoying a collaborative and engaging workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NPD Project Manager
✨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 Haystack Selection, 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 NPD Project Manager
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 Haystack Selection 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 Haystack Selection
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Haystack Selection, 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 Haystack Selection 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.
