Job Summary:

- The Deputy General Manager (DGM) - Product Development & Innovation will be responsible for driving the entire product development lifecycle, from concept to commercialization, while fostering a culture of innovation.

- This role requires a strategic leader with a strong technical background, business acumen, and the ability to manage cross-functional teams.

- The DGM will ensure products meet market needs, adhere to quality standards, and maintain a competitive edge through continuous innovation and R&D initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Product Development & Roadmap Execution:

- Lead the end-to-end product development lifecycle, from ideation, concept development, prototyping, testing, validation, to commercialization.

- Develop and execute product roadmaps aligned with business objectives and market trends.

- Ensure products meet industry standards for performance, safety, and quality through rigorous testing and validation processes.

- Manage the documentation and capture of new products/processes in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR).

- Utilize CAD/CAE tools for design and virtual validation.

- Understand and implement make-buy decisions based on cost, quality, and strategic considerations.

Product Funnel Management & VOC Integration:

- Manage the product funnel, prioritizing opportunities based on market research, competitive analysis, and Voice of Customer (VOC) insights.

- Conduct thorough market analysis to identify emerging trends and customer needs.

- Integrate VOC feedback into the product development process to ensure customer satisfaction.

Lead Innovation R&D Initiatives:

- Drive R&D activities to foster innovation, ensuring product differentiation and technological competitiveness.

- Align R&D efforts with relevant Technology Megatrends to maintain a future-focused approach.

- Oversee prototype development and testing.

- Manage and utilize the testing lab areas.

Manage Shared Services Functions:

- Oversee shared services functions including CAD/CAE, Metallurgy, Testing Lab Areas, and Prototype Areas.

- Ensure efficient utilization of resources and maintain high standards of quality.

- Possess a basic domain understanding of software tools and systems for design (CAD), virtual validation (CAE), and project management.

- Create and manage the budget process for the product development and shared services functions.

Cross-functional Team Leadership:

- Lead and manage cross-functional teams including engineering, manufacturing, R&D, and quality assurance.

- Ensure seamless integration of mechanical, electronic, and software components.

- Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment.

- Manage supplier development processes.

- Possess basic financial acumen to manage budgets and make informed decisions.

- Manage project budgets and timelines.

Qualifications:

- MBA degree from a recognized institution.

- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in product development, R&D, or related fields.

- Proven track record of successfully leading product development projects from concept to commercialization.

- Strong understanding of engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and R&D methodologies.

- Experience with CAD/CAE software and other relevant engineering tools.

- Knowledge of metallurgy and testing lab procedures.

- Experience in managing shared services functions.

- Strong understanding of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR).

- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

- Proficiency in project management and budget management.

- Basic financial acumen.