Senior Product Introduction Manager

The following specification outlines the core responsibilities, qualifications, and technical skills required for this position based on current industry standards.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Direct a cross‑functional team of manufacturing and process engineers to design and industrialise new electronic products, from initial design concept (RFQ) through to full production handover.
• Lifecycle Management:
  Lead products through formal stage‑gate processes (e.g., AS9145, APQP) from initial bid and concept to production handover.
• Design for Excellence (DfX):
  Champion Design for Manufacturability (DfM), Testability (DfT), and Cost (DfC) to ensure designs are robust and cost‑effective.
• Risk Mitigation:
  Manage Manufacturing Readiness Levels (MRL) and conduct Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to identify and resolve production risks early.
• Supply Chain Integration:
  Collaborate with procurement and external suppliers to ensure component availability and manufacturing capability.
• Risk Mitigation:
  Proactively identify and resolve technical or supply chain risks using PFMEA and root‑cause analysis (RCCA).
• Technical Reporting:
  Establish project baselines for cost, schedule, and quality, providing regular updates to senior leadership and customers.
• Cost & Schedule Control:
  Establish and monitor project baselines for cost, schedule, and scope, frequently reporting progress to senior stakeholders.
• Process Development:
  Drive the creation of manufacturing plans, work instructions, tooling, and fixture requirements.
• Cross‑Functional Coordination:
  Align diverse departments—including R&D, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations—to achieve successful launch goals.
• Manufacturing Readiness:
  Oversee Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) assessments and maturation plans to ensure production lines are capable and stable.
• Gate Review Management:
  Chair and manage NPI Gate processes, Design Gate reviews, and Production Readiness Reviews.

• Education:
  
  A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical, Electronic, or Manufacturing Engineering.
• Experience:
  
  Significant experience in a manufacturing environment, with at least 2–3 years in a leadership or management capacity.
• Sector Expertise:
  Proven track record in a highly regulated environment, such as Aerospace (AS9100/9102), Defence, or Space.
• Standards Knowledge:
  Expertise in industry‑specific standards such as AS9100, AS9145 (APQP/PPAP), and J‑STD‑001.
• Security Clearance:
  Ability to obtain and maintain national security vetting (e.g., UK SC or US Secret clearance) is often mandatory.
• Project Management:
  Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet) and methodologies (PMP or PRINCE2 certification is highly desirable).
• Electronics Expertise:
  Deep understanding of PCBA, SMT, and microelectronics assembly processes.
• Methodologies:
  Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and project management frameworks such as PRINCE2 or PMP.
• Systems Proficiency:
  Skilled in using ERP/MRP tools (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and PLM software for configuration control and BOM management.
• Testing & Quality:
  Deep understanding of PFMEA, Root Cause Analysis (RCCA), and automated test equipment (ATE) for electro‑mechanical systems.
• Analytical Ability:
  Strong data‑driven decision‑making skills to optimise cycle times and reduce unit production costs.
• Design for Excellence (DfX):
  Deep understanding of Design for Manufacturability (DfM) and Design to Unit Production Cost (DTUPC).
• Technical Interpretation:
  Ability to interpret complex drawings, Bill of Materials (BOMs), and GD&T specifications.
• Advanced Manufacturing:
  Knowledge of CNC machining, automation, special processes (e.g., heat treating, welding), or electronics assembly (SMT/CCA).

• Competitive salaries.
• 25 days holiday + statutory public holidays, plus opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days (37hr)
• Contributory Pension Scheme (up to 10.5% company contribution)
• Company bonus scheme (discretionary).
• 6 times salary ‘Life Assurance’ with pension.
• Flexible Benefits scheme with extensive salary sacrifice schemes, including Health Cashplan, Dental, and Cycle to Work.
• Enhanced sick pay.
• Enhanced family friendly…