Product Development Manager

Universal Business Team; Thetford; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000

Job description

This job is brought to you by Jobs/Redefined, the UK's leading over-50s age inclusive jobs board.

Location: Thetford Salary: £50,000 - £70,000 DOE + Bonus Hybrid Role

Are you a creative and innovative product designer with a passion for developing high-quality furniture solutions? Do you have the vision and leadership skills to drive new product development, take products to market, and ensure commercial success? If so, this is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established company supplying durable, stylish, and functional furniture to the care sector.

Why Join This Business?

This organisation is a trusted supplier of innovative contract furniture designed specifically for care environments, ensuring both resident comfort and operational efficiency. With a strong industry reputation, they are committed to delivering exceptional products that meet the highest standards.

The Role

As Product Development Manager, you will be responsible for leading the design and functionality of the furniture range, ensuring it aligns with business goals and customer needs. A key part of the role will be managing the product lifecycle, from concept and development through to product launch and market introduction. You will need a strong commercial mindset, ensuring that products are not only well-designed but also commercially viable.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Product Innovation - Researching industry trends, gathering customer feedback, and designing furniture solutions tailored to care environments.
• Creative Design & Development - Selecting suitable materials, sketching concepts, developing CAD models, and overseeing prototyping.
• Product Launch & Market Introduction - Managing the entire product development cycle, ensuring successful go-to-market strategies and commercial success.
• Supplier & Quality Management - Collaborating with suppliers, conducting quality control audits, and maintaining high standards across all product ranges.
• Team Leadership - Supporting and expanding the product development team to drive innovation and growth.

Requirements

What We're Looking For

• Qualifications - BA (Hons) in Furniture Design, Industrial Design, or Product Design (or equivalent).
• Skills & Experience - Strong design vision, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software.
• Commercial Acumen - Understanding of product costing, pricing strategies, and market positioning to ensure the commercial viability of new products.
• Personal Attributes - A self-starter, team player, and effective communicator who thrives in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

Benefits

As part of the team, you'll benefit from:

• Competitive salary (£50,000 - £70,000) plus bonus scheme
• Newly refurbished offices in Thetford, providing a modern and inspiring workspace
• Free snacks, creating a positive and welcoming environment
• Opportunities to develop and grow, including the chance to expand and lead the product development team
• A supportive and forward-thinking company culture, where your ideas will make a real impact

Apply Now

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and make a meaningful impact in the care furniture industry, we'd love to hear from you.

IND25