NPD Project Manager

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Our client is a leading global manufacturer of water and housing products. The company operates internationally across multiple markets and is recognized for its strong portfolio of well-established consumer and building-related brands.

With a significant presence across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and other global markets, the organization combines global expertise with strong local operations.

In Vietnam, the company has an established manufacturing and commercial footprint, with operations supporting both the local market and international supply chains.

This position offers the opportunity to join a multinational manufacturing environment and work closely with cross-functional teams across R&D, manufacturing, quality, finance, marketing, and commercial functions to bring new products from concept to market.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for an experienced Project Manager – New Product Development (NPD) to lead cross-functional projects from initial concept through successful product launch.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing project scope, timelines, budgets, resources, risks, and stakeholder communication throughout the NPD lifecycle. This role requires strong project management capabilities, a solid understanding of manufacturing and NPD processes, and the ability to work effectively across multiple functions and senior stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

1. End-to-End Project Management

• Manage project work packages throughout the full NPD lifecycle, from ideation through product launch, following the Stage-Gate process.
• Define and manage project scope, timelines, budgets, resources, milestones, and deliverables.
• Monitor project progress and ensure projects remain on track against agreed objectives.

2. Cross-Functional Coordination

• Coordinate closely with Sales, Marketing, Manufacturing, Quality, Finance, R&D, and other relevant functions.
• Align cross-functional teams around project objectives, timelines, and deliverables.
• Facilitate discussions, resolve conflicts, and drive timely decisions to support successful product launches.

3. Risk & Issue Management

• Identify, assess, and proactively manage project risks throughout the NPD lifecycle.
• Develop and implement appropriate risk mitigation and contingency plans.
• Lead structured problem-solving activities and ensure critical issues are escalated and resolved in a timely manner.
• Maintain overall project health and ensure key milestones are achieved.

4. Stakeholder Management & Reporting

• Prepare and deliver regular project updates covering project status, KPIs, risks, issues, and key decisions.
• Communicate effectively with Category Leaders, R&D Management, Gatekeepers, and senior stakeholders.
• Ensure stakeholders have clear visibility of project progress and critical actions.

5. Process Improvement & Compliance

• Ensure accurate and timely maintenance of project-related data in SAP.
• Participate in pilot assemblies and other activities supporting product validation and launch readiness.
• Capture and share lessons learned to continuously improve NPD and project management processes.
• Ensure compliance with established project management and NPD procedures.

Requirements

• Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field.

Minimum 5 years of experience in project management, engineering, or a related role within a manufacturing and/or NPD environment.

Master's degree is preferred.

Experience in management consulting is an advantage.

• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Solid understanding of New Product Development (NPD) and Stage-Gate processes.

Strong project planning, organization, and execution skills.

Strong communication, stakeholder management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Ability to identify risks, solve problems, and drive projects toward successful completion.

Familiarity with business case analysis and risk management tools.

Proficiency in project planning and management tools.

Experience working with SAP is an advantage.

Strong analytical and decision-making capabilities.

Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

• Certifications

PMP certification is preferred but not mandatory.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a structured and results-oriented project professional who can effectively coordinate multiple functions and stakeholders while maintaining a strong focus on timelines, quality, and business objectives.

You should be comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, taking ownership of complex projects, proactively addressing risks, and communicating effectively with both operational teams and senior management.