Job Title: Project Manager -NPI

Role Summary

The Project Manager is responsible for end-to-end execution of projects from project order to start of mass production (SOP). The role ensures timely delivery, cost optimization, risk mitigation, and effective stakeholder communication while meeting customer and organizational targets.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Planning & Kick-Off

• Conduct project kick-off meetings with cross-functional teams.
• Define detailed project plans including scope, milestones, deliverables, and timelines.
• Establish governance structure and conduct stage/gate reviews as per process.

2. Project Execution & Control

• Lead project execution from project order to start of mass production (SOP).
• Monitor project progress against timeline, cost, and quality targets.
• Ensure adherence to critical milestones and customer timelines.
• Drive corrective actions for schedule or cost deviations.

3. Risk & Change Management

• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks proactively.
• Monitor critical path and ensure bottlenecks are resolved.
• Manage engineering changes and scope modifications through structured change management process.

4. Cost & Margin Management

• Monitor standard work margins throughout project lifecycle.
• Drive product cost optimization initiatives in coordination with engineering, sourcing, and manufacturing teams.
• Ensure target cost achievement before SOP.

5. Customer & Stakeholder Management

• Act as primary interface for customer communication.
• Conduct recurring review meetings (internal & external).
• Communicate project status, risks, and recovery plans to stakeholders and management.
• Ensure customer satisfaction through proactive engagement.

Key Competencies

• Strong project planning and scheduling skills
• Risk management and problem-solving capability
• Cost control and financial awareness
• Cross-functional leadership and coordination
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management
• Decision-making under pressure

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical / Production / Industrial or related field)
• 10+ years of experience in project management, preferably in manufacturing / automotive / industrial products
• Knowledge of project management tools (MS Project, SAP PS, etc.)
• Experience in New Product Introduction (NPI) is an added advantage