Senior Program Manager - NPD

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position Title:   Senior Program Manager – NPD                        Department:  Program Management

Classification:   Exempt                                                                  Approved By: Human Resources

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

Position Reports To:      Director of Program Management

POSITION PURPOSE

EOTECH is looking for a dynamic and experienced Program Manager to lead and oversee product development initiatives spanning both external (customer) and internal (R&D/NPD) programs. This critical role will manage all aspects of assigned programs and customer relationships, including planning and execution, proposals, on time delivery, budget, product compliance, SOW management and New Product Launch phase gate process adherence, bringing digital night vision camera technologies and products to defense and commercial markets. This position requires a strategic thinker with exceptional leadership, organizational and communication skills to drive innovation and ensure successful product launches. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

• Customer Engagement:
  • Act as the primary point of contact for external and internal customers, fostering strong relationships and ensuring their needs are integrated into product development activities.
  • Gather and analyze customer feedback to guide program priorities, and product design and functionality.
  • Regularly communicate program updates, technical solutions, and progress reports to customers and key internal stakeholders.
  • Secondary Objective, on non-interference basis, to routinely assess a broader scope of the customer’s organizational hierarchy for decision making and alternate vehicle platforms or programs for new business opportunities.
  • Generates periodic, sometimes government TINA compliant, proposals in response to customer RFP’s to address program requirements, overruns, or changes in scope.
• Program Leadership:
  • Manage end-to-end technology and product development programs, from concept to commercialization, ensuring alignment with company goals and market demands.
  • Coordinate and lead execution of cross-functional teams, including R&D, engineering, operations, quality, supply chain, and finance.  
  • Develop and maintain detailed project plans, timelines, budgets and risk mitigation strategies.
• New Product Development (NPD):
  • Lead the NPD process, ensuring adherence to stage-gate methodologies and quality standards.
  • Define product specifications, performance metrics, and success criteria in collaboration with stakeholders.
  • Oversee product launches, ensuring seamless transitions from development to production.
• Stakeholder Management:
  • Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Resolve conflicts, address challenges, and maintain a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in program management, product development, or R&D, with a focus on NPD. (PMP Certified a plus)
• Proven track record of managing complex, customer-facing projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong technical background and understanding of product development processes.
• Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Jira) and methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall).
• US Citizen Required

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving.
• Customer-centric mindset with a passion for delivering value.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing requirements.
• Leadership and team-building skills to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Excellent people skills
• Ability to handle difficult and sensitive situation, using sound, independent judgment
• Knowledge of budgeting, cost estimating, and fiscal management principles and procedures
• Proficient with standard Microsoft tools, including Word, PowerPoint, Project, Outlook and Excel.