Product Development Senior Manager

Ariston Group is a global leader in sustainable thermal comfort that offers a unique, extensive range of solutions for hot water, space heating and air treatment, as well as components and burners. Listed on Euronext Milan since November 2021, in 2023 the Group reported almost 3.1-billion-euro revenues, with over 10,000 employees, direct presence in 40 countries in 5 continents, 29 production sites and 29 research and development centers. The Group demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through the development of renewable and high efficiency solutions, such as heat pumps, water heating heat pumps, hybrids, domestic ventilation, air handling and solar thermal systems. The Group also stands out for its continuous investment in technological innovation, digitalization, and advanced connectivity systems. The Group operates under global strategic brands Ariston, Elco and Wolf, and brands such as Calorex, NTI, HTP, Chaffoteaux, Atag, Brink, Chromagen, Racold, as well as Thermowatt and Ecoflam in the components and burners business.

Mission
- Develop the competence center in order to fulfil the role inside the group
- Oversee the entire development process of new products (electric storage water heaters and electric Instantaneous water heaters) and programs within the organization, from the initial planning phase to implementation and production.
- Keep track of all the costs related to the creation of the new products and decide what ideas are worth pursuing.
- Stay informed on what is happening in the research and development field and in the industry and among local competitors at large in order to make sure the company is up-to-date and current with the most advanced R&D developments.

Main Responsibilities
- Responsible of the R&D and Laboratory department budget, personnel and critical budget requirements.
- Develop continuous efficiency plans by way of design, selection, and implementation of products to drive cost reduction goals.
- Participate in industry sector technical committees with a proactive approach
- Represent the company with key customers when requested by sales or marketing, suppliers and senior leadership.
- Prepare reports and regular updates, providing concise summaries of project work. Present project results and recommendations to leadership, customers and external groups.
- Coach and build team capabilities in creativity, new product and category development.
- Provide guidance and day-to-day supervision to members on project teams by sharing technical knowledge and expertise and providing necessary training.

Requirements/Skills
- Minimum 10 years’ experience in progressive R&D roles
- Masters’ degree in Engineering (PhD is a plus)
- Proven history of technological innovation to assure industry leading excellence
- Experience in the water heating sector or household appliances, durable consumer goods, manufacturing (mechanical or electronic)
- Strong understanding of best practices and world class manufacturing guidelines
- Exceptional critical thinking, problem-solving, and prioritization skills
- Timeline-driven with a strong sense of urgency and ability to meet deadlines
- Strong communication skills

Key Relationships
- Reports to: Head of Product Development Storage WH (functional)
- Direct reports: R&D and Laboratory manager
- Other key relationships: Product management, manufacturing, purchasing, quality

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