Purpose of the job: To lead the Product Development Department to achieve company objectives Responsibilities: Develop and execute the Product Development strategy for new and existing product ranges Optimise product cost and improve the product quality both internally and in conjunction with external suppliers Monitor team projects / activities to achieve strategic objectives Perform evaluations of new materials and suppliers Management of the Engineering Change Process Lead projects with multidisciplinary teams Conduct FMEA studies and address issues raised Develop test methods and perform product testing for approval Perform and approve initial sample inspection reports (ISIR) Conduct benchmarking studies Manage all information, documentation, drawings related to the department in accordance with company policies and ISO 9001 requirements Manage the thermodynamic test laboratory Interpret thermodynamics test results and provide solutions for improvement Provide support to production with product / process / quality / equipment related issues Keep abreast of regulatory specifications and ensure product compliance Perform and support the Letter of Authority application process Familiarity with the following standards is an advantage: ISO 9001, ISO 17025, SANS / IEC 62552, 60335-1 & 60335-2-24 Develop, maintain and improve departmental work standards / procedures Any other product development and design functions as may be necessary Financial Responsibilities: Develop department budget, project & capital expenses Approval of purchases Adhere to financial policies and procedures Safety Health and Environment: Ensure staff works safely according to safety policies, standards and laws Identify potential hazards and critical safety issues in the workplace Always ensure a clean and organised work environment People Management: Lead the Product Development Team to achieve organisational objectives Determine resource requirements for the function Compile and update individual development plans and facilitate individual careers Conduct performance reviews and manage sub-standard performance Ensure that all employee resources within the Department are optimally utilised Chair disciplinary inquires Maintain and encompass the company corporate values Educational Requirements: BSc / BTech / BEng Mechanical Engineering CAD, Solid Works is an advantage High level of computer literacy Electrical engineering knowledge is an advantage Experience: 5+ years manufacturing environment experience 2+ years at management level or 4+ years leading multidisciplinary teams projects Experience in People Leadership – must have led small teams Experience in Project Management Design for manufacturing principles Lean manufacturing principles Cost based approach Apply known problem solving techniques Ability to work in a unionised environment Good interpersonal, communication and presentation skills (both written and verbal) Refrigeration background or an understanding of thermodynamics is an advantage Behavioural Competencies: Adaptability Aligning performance for success Building and maintaining relationships Interpersonal skills & communication Team player Continuous improvement mindset Change leadership Commercial acumen Diversity with inclusion Drive for results Strategic planning, organising & control Decision making Quality leadership Quality orientation Respect Safety awareness Safety leadership Work standards Emotional intelligence Integrity
