Head – New Product

Job Description : Head – New Product Development (Automotive) GERMANY Open to International candidates Key Responsibilities : - NPD Strategy & Product Roadmap Define and execute the NPD strategy aligned with business growth plans Develop product roadmaps (vehicles, components, or systems) Identify emerging trends such as EVs, ADAS, connected vehicles, and lightweight materials - End-to-End Product Development Lead complete product lifecycle: concept, design, prototyping, validation, and production Drive platform development and modular design approaches Ensure Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Design for Cost (DFC), and Design for Quality (DFQ) - Program & Project Management Manage multiple vehicle/platform development programs Establish timelines, milestones (APQP gates), and budgets Ensure on-time, on-cost, and on-quality delivery - Engineering & R&D Leadership Oversee design, simulation, testing, and validation activities Drive adoption of advanced engineering tools (CAD/CAE, PLM systems) Lead innovation in powertrain, chassis, electronics, and embedded systems - Regulatory & Compliance Ensure compliance with automotive standards and regulations Work with global standards such as International Organization for Standardization (e.g., ISO/TS 16949 / IATF 16949) Ensure adherence to safety, emission, and homologation requirements - Supplier & Vendor Development Collaborate with Tier 1 / Tier 2 suppliers for co-development Drive cost optimization and value engineering initiatives Ensure supplier quality and timely delivery of components - Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with manufacturing, quality, procurement, and marketing teams Support plant readiness, tooling, and production ramp-up Align with after-sales for serviceability and lifecycle support - Product Launch & Commercialization Oversee pilot builds, PPAP approvals, and SOP (Start of Production) Ensure smooth product launch and market introduction Monitor field performance and implement improvements Key Skills & Competencies : - Strong automotive engineering knowledge (vehicle systems/components) - Expertise in APQP, PPAP, FMEA, DFMEA/PFMEA - Leadership in large-scale program management -Strategic thinking with innovation mindset (EV, autonomous tech) - Financial and cost management (BOM optimization) - Strong stakeholder and supplier management Qualifications & Experience : - Bachelor’s/master’s in mechanical / automotive / electrical engineering (MBA preferred) 20 years of experience in automotive product development - Proven experience in leading vehicle or component development programs

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