Product Development Manager

Product Development Manager
The PDM leads the development of new products, ensures adherence to the product development process, maintains project timelines, and manages project costs effectively

Duties & Responsibilities
o Lead the development of new rubber and plastic products from initial concept to full production.
o Oversee and manage the design, prototyping, testing, and validation phases.
o Ensure all product development activities align with company goals and customer requirements.
o Populate correct data for smart goals to present to managers.
o Implement and follow a structured New Development Process (NDP) to ensure timely and efficient product launches.
o Continuously review and improve the NDP to enhance efficiency, reduce time-to-market, and ensure high-quality outcomes.
o Document all stages of the development process and maintain accurate records
o Monitor project progress and make adjustments as necessary to meet deadlines and budget constraints
o Develop detailed project plans using MS Projects or similar software to track and manage timelines and budgets.
o Identify and address any potential delays or bottlenecks promptly.
o Work closely with the QA team to ensure all products meet quality standards and comply with relevant regulations and certifications.
o Work closely with the QA and Production team to address and resolve any issues or defects that arise during the development and production phases.
o Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices.
o Conduct post-launch reviews to gather insights and lessons learned for future projects
o Assist the sales and marketing teams by providing technical expertise and support during customer interactions.
o Stay updated on industry trends, market demands, and technological advancements.
o Foster a culture of innovation and creativity within the product development team.
o Accurately cost out projects and ensure budgets are adhered to.
o Implement cost-saving measures and strategies without compromising quality – participate in continuous improvement projects
o Act as the primary liaison between the manufacturing, tooling, design and development, and process departments.
o Collaborate with the engineering, production, and quality assurance teams to ensure product feasibility and manufacturability.
o Utilize MS Projects or similar software to manage and report on project timelines, costs, and processes.
o Responsible for managing the Design and toolroom department

Desired Experience & Qualification
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, or a related field
• Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, or a related field
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in product development, preferably in plastic and rubber manufacturing
• Proven experience in managing complex projects with strict timelines and budgets
• Strong proficiency in MS Projects and other project management software
• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work collaboratively across various departments and teams
• Proactive, with a strong ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
If you have the necessary qualifications, meet the criteria as set herein and have a proven successful track record you should apply to the Human Resources Manager at Hudson Rubber.
Note: Positions are available in Centurion and Hammanskraal.
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