NPD Manager

Role OverviewWe 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 Responsibilities1. 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.-