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Job Summary:
The Senior Director, NPI Operations, is accountable for leading the strategic direction, execution, and continuous improvement of the New Product Introduction (NPI) process across multiple sites. This role oversees the successful launch of new products or site-to-site transfer of products into manufacturing by ensuring cross-functional alignment, robust program management methodologies, and a culture of operational excellence. The position requires driving both process standardization and scalability to meet the growing demands of UCT business, while maintaining a focus on cost, quality, and delivery targets.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Leadership & Strategy:
- Lead a high-performing NPI team to deliver successful product launches and transfers into manufacturing.
- Align cross-functional teams (R&D, Supply Chain, Operations, Engineering, Sales) to NPI objectives.
- Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement in NPI processes to drive operational efficiencies.
- Oversee and enhance the phase-gate process to ensure timely and cost-effective product launches.
- Program Management & Delivery:
- Develop and implement a governance structure for NPI that promotes accountability and transparency.
- Ensure the department consistently meets KPIs related to time-to-market, cost control, product quality, and on-time to HVM.
- Manage escalations and proactively mitigate risks by conducting regular program reviews and audits.
- Drive cross functional execution of NPI deliverables and escalate, as needed
- Cross-functional Alignment & Communication:
- Ensure clear and effective communication of project status to internal and external stakeholders.
- Collaborate with CRM, Sales, and Operations teams to forecast and manage workload capacity.
- Drive engagement and accountability from cross-functional teams in support of NPI objectives.
- Process Improvement:
- Continuously evaluate and improve NPI methodologies and tools to ensure world-class operational performance.
- Implement Kaizen and lean practices to enhance project management efficiency.
- Drive improvements in the Organizational Project Maturity Index (OPM3) or equivalent performance metrics.
- Training & Development:
- Ensure the team has access to structured training programs to enhance their program management and technical skills.
- Act as a regional champion for program management excellence.
- Financial Oversight:
- Responsible for managing departmental budgets, ensuring cost-effective utilization of resources.
- Provide accurate forecasts and manage spending in alignment with corporate goals.
- Collaborate with site PM's and Account Executive teams for commercial alignment for the project
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Proven leadership in managing large-scale NPI projects across multiple sites and geographies.
- Expertise in program management methodologies and tools such as MS Project or enterprise-level portfolio management systems.
- Strong problem-solving and change management skills with the ability to drive process optimization.
- Familiarity with ISO, QS 9000, and other quality systems, as well as ERP systems like SAP or Oracle.
- Ability to influence and drive accountability across departments and external stakeholders.
- Strong communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills, with a global business perspective.
- Ability to manage complex, cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment.
Educational/Certification Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, or a related technical field. Master's degree preferred.
- PMP certification or equivalent program management certification highly desirable.
Experience Requirements:
- 12+ years of experience in NPI, operations, or engineering, with at least 7+ years in a senior leadership role.
- Demonstrated success in managing multi-site operations with a focus on new product deployment.
- Experience in managing a global, multi-tier PMO (Program Management Office) preferred.
At Ultra Clean Technology, we do not just welcome diversity - we celebrate it! Ultra Clean Technology is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, and any other characteristic protected under laws and regulations.
