Head of NPI Engineering and Project Management

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of NPI Engineering & Project Management to lead our New Product Introduction (NPI) and project management functions. This role is critical in driving seamless product industrialization, from concept through qualification to high-volume manufacturing (HVM) while ensuring operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and alignment with strategic business objectives.

The ideal candidate brings strong technical depth, proven leadership in complex manufacturing environments, and a track record of successfully delivering high-impact NPI programs.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Define and execute the NPI strategy aligned with overall business goals and growth plans.
• Establish scalable NPI frameworks, governance models, and best practices across the organization.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, speed-to-market, and quality.

NPI & Program Management

• Lead end-to-end execution of NPI programs, ensuring delivery on time, within scope, and within budget.
• Oversee project planning, milestone tracking, risk management, and stakeholder communication.
• Ensure robust transition from NPI phase to high-volume manufacturing (HVM).

Engineering & Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing NPI engineering and project management team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Drive cross-functional alignment across engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, sales, and customer support.

Customer & Stakeholder Management

• Act as the primary interface for key customers on NPI programs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and strategic partners.
• Communicate project status, risks, and achievements effectively to senior leadership and stakeholders.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure successful product and process qualification in compliance with company and industry standards.
• Implement data-driven decision-making using KPIs, metrics, and analytics.
• Identify risks proactively and deploy mitigation strategies to minimize project impact.

Commercial & Financial Oversight

• Support RFQ activities, including cost estimation, pricing strategy, and project planning.
• Develop and manage NPI budgets, ensuring optimal resource allocation.
• Monitor project financials and provide regular reporting to senior management.

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical & Electronics Engineering, or a related field.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of experience in parts and assembly manufacturing, with strong exposure to NPI environments.
• At least 5 years in program/project management leadership roles.
• Proven experience in semiconductor or high-tech contract manufacturing is highly preferred.

Key Competencies

• Strong leadership with the ability to inspire and manage cross-functional teams.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills across global and local environments.
• Deep understanding of NPI processes, product development cycles, and manufacturing scale-up.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools (e.g., PMP, Agile, Stage-Gate).
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to leverage data for decision-making.
• Proactive problem-solver with a results-driven approach.
• High energy, resilience, and a strong sense of ownership.