New Product Introduction Project Manager

Job Summary:

The NPI Project Manager is responsible for overseeing the successful initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, controlling, and closure of multiple New Product Introduction (NPI) projects. This role ensures that projects align with the Product Strategy and NPI Roadmap standards.

Required Experience & Competencies:

• Willingness to travel occasionally.
• Proficient in delegation, inspiring others, and effective communication.
• Possession of a valid CA Driver License and proof of automobile insurance is required.
• Ability to demonstrate the highest level of professionalism, exercise independent judgment, and make decisions while considering the interests of multiple stakeholders.
• Understanding of Project Management tools, preferably Smartsheet.
• Familiarity with project management standards.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in Project Management Office (PMO) with a focus on NPI projects, R&D projects, or Product Management.
• Industry background in Biotech, Life Sciences, MedTech, Pharma, or Aviation is preferred.
• Experience with Lean Six Sigma and KAIZEN methodologies.
• Hands-on experience using the NPI Stage Gate Process.
• Excellent design thinking skills.

Essential Functions:

• Conduct project gate reviews according to project timelines and NPI process requirements to meet deliverables on schedule.
• Conduct regular project status reviews with individual teams and update project metrics.
• Develop and cultivate the project team to optimize performance by providing purpose, direction, and motivation.
• Mentor, train, coach, and facilitate Project Management and Operational Excellence skills.
• Manage integrated project teams, including external partners, to deliver projects within budget, on time, and to quality standards.
• Organize frequent design review meetings during the prototyping phase to ensure adherence to the project plan.
• Create and monitor development budgets.
• Ensure NPI projects adhere to the agreed Stage Gate Process, utilizing the necessary tools and templates.
• Utilize the phase-gated NPI project toolkit.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Product Management, Product Development, Commercial Stream, Operations, Regulatory, Quality, and Research, to define project scope, objectives, deliverables, risks, and timelines.
• Maintain an overview of all assigned projects and communicate status with the NPI manager and/or senior leadership.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Design/Mechanical Engineering and/or Business Administration. Master's degree is a plus.
• Preferred certifications: Project Management Professional (PMP) and/or Project Management Institute (PMI) or FXP certification.