Head of New Product Development

Better Placed have partnered with an innovative global organisation as they recruit a Head of New Product Development/Engineering to join the business. As the Head of NPD, the incumbent will assume accountability and responsibility for driving innovation and overseeing the development of new products. Collaborating with various departments, you will assume responsibility for a large team including Industrial Designers, Mechanical Engineers, Product Designers and FEA Engineers.

Proximity to Head Office in West Yorkshire will be key, so you must be a commutable distance to be considered for this opportunity (c3-4 days in the office on average)

I’m looking for a dynamic, ideas-orientated individual with extensive experience in an NPD leadership role with a track record of successful product delivery.

Key Accountabilities:

1. Lead and mentor the team, fostering a collaborative environment where innovation and creativity are at the forefront of the agenda.
2. Oversee the personal development of all individuals within the team, ensuring everyone is motivated and challenged.
3. Support and execute the NPD strategy aligned with the company's goals, visions and values.
4. Oversee the end-to-end product development lifecycle from concept to design to launch.
5. Stay informed about emerging trends, technologies and materials - always striving for excellence in product offerings.

Key Requirements:

1. A strong leader with a proven track record of managing a large team is an essential requirement for this opportunity.
2. You will have a degree in Product Design or Engineering and/or something similar.
3. You will have a strong technical background (ideally from a manufacturing, automotive, consumer product background).

Personal Attributes:

I’m looking for someone who’s up for a challenge; you will be a curious individual who wants to get things done better. Strength of character and resilience will be important; the organisation has an entrepreneurial, start-up feel and requires someone to take hold of the function, understanding the products and driving innovation.