At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product development from concept to launch while managing a talented team.
- Company: Established manufacturer with a focus on innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to shape future products.
- Other info: 70% hands-on role with opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a specialised sector and drive innovation.
- Qualifications: Strong technical background and leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Involve Recruitment (Midlands) Ltd have partnered with a well-established manufacturer to appoint a Product Development Lead. This is a critical hire, replacing a long-standing technical leader and offering the chance to shape the next generation of products within a highly specialised sector. This role is ideal for a hands-on senior product engineer who still enjoys solving technical problems, but is ready to take ownership of the product function and lead a small, capable team.
The Role
This is a 70% hands-on / 30% leadership position, combining technical depth with strategic responsibility. You’ll take full ownership of the product development lifecycle — from concept through to launch — while leading and developing a small internal team.
Key responsibilities include:
- Owning the product roadmap, lifecycle, and range strategy
- Leading all new product development projects end-to-end
- Driving continuous improvement across existing products (tolerances, materials, modular systems)
- Managing supplier engineering and component cost optimisation
- Leading the patent process and innovation strategy (with external attorneys)
- Line managing a team including engineers and a product development specialist
- Acting as the senior technical representative in key external discussions (OEMs, B2B partners, industry bodies)
We’re looking for a technically strong, commercially aware ...
Product Manager employer: Involve Recruitment
As a leading manufacturer in a specialised sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work culture that encourages innovation and collaboration. Our employees benefit from a hands-on approach to product development, with ample opportunities for professional growth and leadership within a supportive team environment. Located in the Midlands, we offer a unique chance to shape the future of our products while enjoying a balanced work-life experience in a thriving community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend relevant events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors that applications alone can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to product management. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for product development! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas on innovation and continuous improvement. We want to see your enthusiasm for shaping the next generation of products.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Product Manager role. Highlight your hands-on experience and leadership qualities, as we want to see how you can take ownership of the product function.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've led product development projects and driven improvements in previous positions.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role requires a strong technical background, don’t shy away from showcasing your technical skills in your application. Mention any relevant tools, technologies, or methodologies you’ve used in product development.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape the next generation of products!
How to prepare for a job interview at Involve Recruitment
✨Know Your Product Development Lifecycle
Make sure you understand the entire product development lifecycle inside out. Be ready to discuss how you've managed projects from concept to launch in your previous roles. This will show that you can take ownership of the process and lead a team effectively.
✨Showcase Your Technical Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of technical challenges you've faced and how you solved them. This role requires a hands-on approach, so demonstrating your ability to tackle complex issues will be crucial. Use specific metrics or outcomes to highlight your success.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Since this position involves leading a small team, be ready to share your leadership style and experiences. Discuss how you've motivated teams, managed conflicts, and driven projects forward. Highlight any mentoring or coaching you've done to showcase your ability to develop others.
✨Understand the Market and Competitors
Research the company’s products and their competitors. Be prepared to discuss how you would drive continuous improvement and innovation within their product range. Showing that you have a strategic mindset and are commercially aware will set you apart from other candidates.
