NPD Manager

Role Overview We are looking for an innovative and technically proficient NPD Manager – DFM Outdoor Furniture to lead the design modification, re-engineering, and industrialization of outdoor furniture products. The primary objective of this role is to ensure every outdoor furniture design adheres to Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and 3-pick assembly principles — focusing on manufacturability, durability, cost efficiency, and ease of assembly for the end customer. The role requires a blend of product design sensibility, engineering knowledge, material expertise (metal, wood, wicker, fabric, etc.), and understanding of outdoor performance standards. Key Responsibilities 1. Product Design, Modification & Re-engineering - Lead the redesign and re-engineering of existing outdoor furniture SKUs to achieve modularity and 3-pick assembly readiness. - Translate design concepts into manufacturing-ready engineering drawings and 3D models optimized for cost, strength, weather performance, and easy assembly. - Conduct value engineering to reduce complexity, materials, and tooling costs while maintaining product strength and aesthetics. - Optimize furniture construction for flat-pack shipping, minimal hardware, and rapid assembly. - Collaborate with design and NPD teams to balance aesthetic appeal, ergonomic comfort, and production feasibility. 2. Design for Manufacturing (DFM) & Industrial Engineering - Apply DFM principles to outdoor furniture — ensuring compatibility with metal fabrication, powder coating, weaving, injection molding, and upholstery processes. - Standardize joinery systems, fittings, and components across multiple product lines to improve scalability and interchangeability. - Work closely with production and tooling teams to ensure all designs meet machine, fixture, and assembly-line constraints. - Validate structural integrity and weather resistance through simulation and testing before commercialization. - Partner with procurement and suppliers to identify suitable materials for outdoor use — aluminum, steel, synthetic wicker, rope, high-performance fabrics, etc. 3. 3-Pick Assembly Program Development - Drive the 3-pick assembly initiative for outdoor furniture — focusing on compact packaging, reduced components, and intuitive end-user assembly. - Engineer assembly mechanisms and connectors that minimize tools and setup time while ensuring long-term durability. - Collaborate with packaging and logistics teams to optimize carton design, space utilization, and shipping stability. - Develop visual assembly instructions and exploded-view guides for customers and internal production teams. 4. Prototype Development & Testing - Oversee prototype creation and pilot production runs, ensuring alignment with engineering and design intent. - Conduct outdoor product validation tests — corrosion, UV resistance, load bearing, finish adhesion, and cyclic durability. - Work with quality teams to establish and implement performance and compliance standards for all outdoor furniture categories. - Implement continuous improvement feedback loops between NPD, production, and after-sales data. 5. Cross-Functional Collaboration - Coordinate with industrial design, manufacturing, quality, sourcing, and logistics teams for end-to-end execution of NPD projects. - Collaborate with supply chain and warehouse teams for packaging, labeling, and distribution standardization. - Partner with the marketplace, cataloging, and e-commerce teams to ensure all technical data, assembly details, and images are aligned for product listings. - Liaise with vendors and contract manufacturers for sample development, process validation, and capacity assessment. 6. Documentation, Compliance & Continuous Improvement - Maintain complete CAD drawings, BOMs, change control documents, and DFM review reports for each SKU. - Ensure all products comply with relevant international outdoor furniture standards (e.g., BIFMA, ASTM, EN). - Monitor performance data and post-launch feedback to continuously refine designs and materials. - Lead initiatives to enhance sustainability, recyclability, and cost efficiency in product design and packaging. Key Deliverables - Conversion of all existing outdoor SKUs to DFM- and 3-pick assembly-compliant designs. - Reduction in assembly time and hardware count per product. - Improvement in production efficiency and reduction in cost per unit. - 100% adherence to outdoor performance, corrosion, and durability standards. - Timely completion of NPD milestones from concept to commercialization. Desired Skills & Competencies - Deep understanding of outdoor furniture design, DFM, and modular engineering principles. - Expertise in 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Fusion 360, or equivalent). - Strong knowledge of metal fabrication, powder coating, weaving, upholstery, and material finishes. - Hands-on experience with knock-down / flat-pack product design and furniture assembly mechanisms. - Proficient in BOM creation, costing, and design documentation. - Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and project management skills. - Strong coordination skills with internal and external stakeholders. Qualifications & Experience - Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical / Industrial Engineering, Product Design, or Furniture Design. - Experience: 7–10 years of experience in Outdoor Furniture Product Engineering / NPD / Manufacturing, with proven exposure to DFM and modular design. - Prior experience with export or premium outdoor furniture brands preferred. -