New Product Project Manager
Location: Somerset
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
An established and growing precision engineering and manufacturing organisation is seeking a New Product Project Manager to join its engineering function. This role offers the opportunity to lead complex New Product Introduction (NPI) and development projects within a technically advanced and quality-driven environment.
Role Overview
The successful candidate will be responsible for managing new product introduction and development projects from initial enquiry or contract award through to successful production handover. Working across engineering, production, quality, and commercial functions, the role requires a structured and disciplined approach to project delivery, ensuring all projects are completed on time, within budget, and to required specifications and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead new product introduction and development projects from launch through to production handover
- Manage projects in line with structured, gated development processes
- Develop, maintain, and control detailed project plans using Microsoft Project
- Coordinate cross-functional activities across engineering, production, quality, purchasing, and operations
- Act as the primary point of contact for customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders
- Monitor and manage project risks, issues, timelines, cost, and quality performance
- Support manufacturability and production readiness reviews
- Ensure that customer requirements, specifications, and quality standards are fully understood and implemented
- Maintain compliance with relevant quality management standards (e.g. AS9100)
- Chair project review meetings and provide clear, structured reporting
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within project delivery and NPI processes
Candidate Requirements
Essential:
- Demonstrable experience in managing NPI, NPD, or engineering projects within a manufacturing environment
- Background in precision engineering, machining, casting, or similarly regulated sectors
- Strong understanding of structured project management or gated development processes
- Experience working with recognised quality standards such as AS9100
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications
- Strong organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities
Desirable:
- Formal project management qualification (e.g. PRINCE2 or equivalent)
- Experience within aerospace, defence, or other highly regulated industries
- Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, FAIR, FMEA, and related quality processes
- Familiarity with CNC machining, casting, or special manufacturing processes
- Understanding of ERP/MRP systems
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