Program Manager – NPD Projects

Work Mode: Onsite
Location: Kohler, WI

About the role

Accountable for the project management and implementation of a portfolio of new projects and activities that align with business needs and achieve strategic outcomes. Responsible for executing the New Product Schedule using cross-functional resources and the NPD process for new product development projects. Serves as a trusted partner to Engineering, Category Strategy Marketing, Industrial Design, Supply Chain, and Operations leaders to drive cross-functional execution and consistent processes across regions. Facilitates collaboration between teams to ensure effective prioritization, resource alignment, and successful delivery of strategic programs.

The scope of responsibility includes a portfolio of product, platform, and other initiatives of moderate to high complexity, requiring coordination across multiple functions, categories, and potentially geographies.

Responsibilities

• Manage cross-functional teams through a defined and gated NPD process, including project timelines and maintenance throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensure high-quality products are developed, built, and shipped on time as defined by commitments in the New Product Schedule.
• Autonomously manage the development process and communicate technical and process issues to senior management.
• Anticipate and manage tasks/risks within each project, defining decision-making processes for project teams.
• Coach project team personnel to develop and implement cross-functional solutions to complex issues.
• Make informed decisions when the project team cannot, with critical financial and schedule impact.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously and communicate progress to executive management.
• Establish and maintain relationships with senior management to align NPD objectives and remove project obstacles.
• Drive each program to defined metrics and provide performance evaluations for cross-functional resources.
• Work with senior management to continually improve the NPD process and organization.
• Develop and manage the project budget, including development expenses, capital tooling, and expense tooling.
• Guide the team to develop new products that meet cost targets.
• Provide feedback and solutions for process improvements in New Product Development and manufacturing.
• Facilitate portfolio reviews, resource planning, and governance processes to support leadership decision-making.
• Provide executive-level reporting, program status updates, and strategic insights to category and enterprise leaders.
• Support organizational planning through portfolio analytics, prioritization recommendations, and strategic resource allocation.
• Coach project teams and stakeholders on program management best practices to improve execution and business outcomes.

Role Competencies

• Business Insight: Applies knowledge of business and the marketplace to advance organizational goals. Ensures the team understands industry changes and communicates how their efforts impact the broader organization.
• Persuades: Uses compelling arguments to gain support and commitment. Negotiates skillfully, balancing own position with others' needs.
• Strategic Mindset: Translates future possibilities into breakthrough strategies. Aligns long-term opportunities with day-to-day activities.
• Balances Stakeholders: Anticipates and balances the needs of multiple stakeholders. Ensures ethical standards and cross-cultural sensitivity.
• Plans and Aligns: Prioritizes work to meet commitments aligned with organizational goals. Resolves potential bottlenecks and delays.
• Cultivates Innovation: Encourages new and better ways to address challenges. Supports promising ideas and incorporates varied perspectives.
• Interpersonal Savvy: Relates openly and comfortably with diverse groups. Resolves interpersonal issues and builds group harmony.
• Drives Engagement: Creates a motivating climate where people contribute their best. Involves others and gives credit for their contributions.
• Optimizes Work Processes: Focuses on continuous improvement and quality outcomes. Equips others to handle day-to-day tasks effectively.
• Integrates Systems: Improves quality and service by integrating systems.

Skills

• Data Collection and Analysis: Determine and analyze trends to assist in decision-making.
• Action Planning: Develop appropriate plans based on recommendations and requirements.
• Adaptive Mindset: Adjust thinking and work habits to thrive in any scenario.
• Managing Change: Demonstrate a change mindset and maintain performance during transitions.
• Planning and Organizing: Prioritize and oversee activities to meet objectives efficiently.
• Verbal Communication: Express ideas, request actions, and formulate plans clearly and effectively.
• Commercial Acumen: Use understanding of the business environment to develop solutions.
• Effectively Presents Solutions: Communicate resolutions or strategies in a compelling, tailored manner.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a product development-related discipline (e.g., Engineering/Manufacturing, Marketing, Design).
• Five or more years of experience in product development.
• Five or more years of increasing responsibility for project and team management (matrix management acceptable) involving a broad range of technologies and processes.
• Demonstrated ability to build teams, make sound decisions, and drive cross-functional action.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) Certificate preferred.
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.

Benefits

Kohler offers day-one benefits, including access to applicable benefit programs from the first day of employment. Benefits include a competitive total rewards package to support health and wellbeing, career growth and development opportunities, a diverse and inclusive workplace, and a strong culture of innovation.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $128,950 - $200,550. The specific salary offered may be influenced by factors such as experience, education, and work location. This position is also eligible for a performance bonus or variable incentive compensation.