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The NPD Specialist plays a pivotal role in driving product development and production efficiency. The Specialist independently manages development and production within their assigned product range, leads supplier negotiations, and helps implement cross-functional improvement initiatives. Acting as a key partner to both internal studios and the main point of contact for external suppliers they ensure technical solutions align with organizational objectives and product strategies.
Job Responsibility:
Independently manage production timelines, ensuring adherence to internal KPIs and timely project completion
Collaborate with the studio and factory to optimize efficiency and quality
Proactively communicate progress, risks, and solutions with all stakeholders to drive projects to on-time completion
Lead the development of projects from studio concept to finished goods, ensuring alignment with the studio's vision, budget, and specifications
Serve as the primary technical contact for studios, addressing all technical questions and constraints with constructive discussions
Conduct regular reviews with studios to identify and prioritize improvement opportunities across playtypes and product ranges
Provide expertise on manufacturing materials and techniques (paper, cardboard, plastic, etc.), ensuring compliance with technical and budgetary requirements
Lead supplier meetings from start to finish, including setting objectives, managing agendas, and conducting reviews
Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers in Asia, Europe, and North America leveraging knowledge of industrial constraints for each material and technology
Propose pricing and deadline targets for validation and engage in strategic negotiations with significant stakes to optimize cost and delivery timelines
Involve suppliers proactively in upcoming projects, fostering innovation and collaboration
Lead large-scale projects involving advanced coordination of order volumes, complexity, multi-sourcing, and production planning
Monitor component stock levels with precision, suggesting production anticipations and adjustments where relevant
Ensure accurate tracking and communication of iterations in product specifications and maintain an up-to-date production database
Define and uphold product quality expectations using detailed product specifications
Address QC incidents with suppliers, implementing actionable plans to resolve issues and prevent recurrence
Track and report QC KPIs to maintain transparency and drive continuous improvement
Provide leadership in technical discussions, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the team
Requirements:
Preference for strong experience in plastic injection molding design and/or production
Preference for strong experience in printed consumer products or board/card games manufacturing
Proven ability to independently manage complex projects and productions
Strong technical knowledge of key industry components, including paper, cardboard, and plastic production as well as an understanding of associated industrial constraints
Negotiation skills with the ability to manage strategic supplier relationships and propose innovative solutions
Proficiency in coordinating multi-faceted projects involving complex planning and multi-sourcing
Ability to lead constructive discussions, challenge assumptions, and reach shared solutions with studios and stakeholders
Fluent in English, with excellent communication and organizational skills
Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience
3 to 5 years of experience in product development, manufacturing, or project management
Expertise in plastic injection molding materials, manufacturing processes, and supplier management
Nice to have:
Familiarity with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement methodologies, or PMP certification is a plus
Prior experience in the print or plastics manufacturing industry, particularly collectible trading card or plastic miniature production, is highly preferred
Knowledge of the gaming industry is a significant advantage