Program Manager - New Product DevelopmentThis position has overall responsibility for driving successful execution and delivery of new product development (NPD) programs from concept through launch. The Program Manager serves as the cross-functional leader responsible for achieving program objectives related to schedule, cost, quality, and launch readiness. This role partners closely with Product Management, Engineering, Operations, Quality, Sourcing, Manufacturing, and Commercial teams to proactively drive accountability, manage interdependencies, mitigate risks, resolve execution challenges, and ensure adherence to the NPD process.
The ideal candidate is a highly proactive leader who drives alignment, accelerates timelines, removes barriers, and owns program outcomes.Reports to: Sr. Director, Product ManagementKey Focus AreasOwn successful execution of NPD programs from initiation through commercial launchDrive achievement of committed program timing, cost, quality, and performance objectivesDevelop and actively manage integrated program timelines, including critical path identification and recovery planningProactively identify risks, develop mitigation strategies, and lead countermeasure activities to address deviationsDrive timeline acceleration opportunities through understanding of cross-functional dependencies and execution tradeoffsEnforce NPD process rigor, including stage-gate deliverables, standard work, and launch readiness requirementsIdentify gaps in current NPD processes and standard work; partner cross-functionally to improve execution effectivenessHold cross-functional teams accountable to commitments, deliverables, and action itemsLead program escalation discussions with clear problem statements, options, recommendations, and recovery plansFacilitate effective executive and core team communication with clear prioritization of risks, decisions, and actionsCoordinate across Engineering, Product Management, Operations, Sourcing, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, and Commercial teams to ensure successful launchesDrive decision-making and issue resolution to avoid program delaysEstablish program governance, tracking mechanisms, and operating cadence to ensure visibility and accountabilitySupport continuous improvement initiatives related to NPD execution and program management effectivenessQualificationsBachelor's degree in engineering, business or related field, Master degree preferred8+ years' experience leading complex cross-functional product development programsPMP Certification a plusDemonstrated success managing schedule recovery, risk mitigation, and cross-functional executionExperience operating within stage-gate or formal NPD processStrong understanding of product development lifecycle, manufacturing readiness, validation processes, sourcing, regulatory considerations, and commercial launch requirementsExceptional verbal and written communication skillsEnergy and desire to deliver high-quality projects on tight schedulesCandidate should have strong and effective decision-making skillsStrong leadership presence with ability to influence at all organizational levelsStrong interpersonal skills, positive attitude, an ability to engage and create trust in others to build and foster team relationshipsPossess strong organization skills and ability to multitaskStrong ability to coach and mentor resourcesPossesses general understanding in the areas of mechanical product design and manufacturingTotal Rewards and BenefitsCompetitive SalaryMedical, Dental, Vision, STD, LTD, AD&D, and Life InsuranceMatching 401(k) ContributionHealth Savings AccountUp to 3 weeks starting Vacation (may increase with tenure)12 Paid HolidaysAnnual Bonus EligibilityEducational ReimbursementMatching Gift ProgramEmployee Stock Purchase Plan – purchase company stock at a discount!**THIRD PARTY AGENCY: Any unsolicited submissions received from recruitment agencies will be considered property of Zurn Elkay, and we will not be liable for any fees or obligations related to those submissions.**Equal Opportunity Employer – Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran