We are seeking a hands-on and technically skilled Product Development Manager to lead initiatives at our Mexico-based manufacturing facilities. This role ensures designs are translated into manufacturable, high-quality products through close collaboration with internal teams and factory partners. A strong background in upholstery manufacturing, prototyping, costs, materials and Design for Manufacture (DFM) principles is essential.
- Product Development Execution
Oversee daily execution of the New Product Introduction (NPI) process produced furniture, focusing on upholstery.
Lead prototyping, sampling, and production validations to align with design intent and manufacturability standards.
Guide teams on foam use and selection (cut, molded, over-molded substrates) to optimize product performance and quality.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
Coordinate cross-functional efforts with key teams to execute product launches on time and to standard.
Troubleshoot foam fit, shaping, sagging, and aesthetic inconsistencies with upholstery teams.
- Design for Manufacture (DFM) Support
Apply DFM best practices to assess materials, foam, frames, construction methods, and production feasibility; provide timely feedback to Product Engineering.
Identify cost optimization opportunities while preserving product quality and aesthetics.
Train production teams on NPI processes as needed for seamless integration.
- Design Transfer to Manufacturing
Apply DFM principles to upholstery foam processes, evaluating foam types, adhesion needs, and wrapping techniques.
Recommend foam modifications to improve repeatability and simplify manufacturing.
Provide early input on molded foam tooling strategies to support timelines and cost management.
Ensure factories meet project readiness requirements and collaborate with manufacturing engineers on factory onboarding for new product launches.
Experience and requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Engineering, or related field.
- 5 to 8 years in product development or engineering, including 3+ years in a managerial role.
- Demonstrated experience in upholstery construction, foam, frame design, prototyping, and furniture manufacturing processes.
- Hands-on expertise with cut foam, molded foam, and over-molded substrates in furniture, automotive, or consumer goods.
- Proven ability to apply Design for Manufacture (DFM) methodologies to improve manufacturability, efficiency, and product quality.
- Fluent & proficient in English (written and spoken).
Preferred
- Experience with U.S. based consumer product companies and cross-cultural teams.
- Knowledge of sustainability practices and compliance standards (FSC, GREENGUARD).
- CAD and rendering literacy (SolidWorks), for project revision, consult or modifications.