NPI Manager

The Mission

Doodle Labs is entering its next phase of scale. As we expand our robotics and wireless product portfolio across global defense and commercial markets, we need a leader who will build and operationalize a world-class New Product Introduction (NPI) function.

This role is not about tracking projects. It is about designing and enforcing the execution engine that ensures complex HW/SW products move from concept to release with speed, rigor, and predictability.

You will architect the NPI system, lead cross-functional execution, and create the operational discipline that enables Doodle Labs to scale without losing velocity.

What You’ll Do (Performance Objectives)

1. Establish the NPI Operating Framework (First 90 Days)

• Within 30 days, conduct a full diagnostic of current product development workflows, interfaces (HW, SW, QA, Product, Operations, Sales), and execution gaps.

• Within 60 days, design a structured stage-gate NPI framework with clear entry/exit criteria, ownership matrix (RACI), risk management structure, and executive reporting cadence.
• Within 90 days, implement the NPI governance model across all active projects using a standardized project tracking system, ensuring 100% project visibility and milestone alignment.

Measure of Success: All active NPI programs are tracked under a unified framework with defined accountability and escalation paths.

2. Lead Cross-Functional Program Execution

• Own end-to-end NPI execution across multiple concurrent technical programs.
• Ensure alignment between Engineering (HW/SW), QA, Product, Operations, and Sales.
• Establish weekly and monthly executive reporting on program health, risks, and mitigation plans.
• Create structured change-control processes to reduce late-stage execution failures.

Measure of Success (6–12 Months): Measurable improvement in on-time milestone achievement and reduction in cross-functional execution gaps.

3. Build and Develop the NPI Function

• Define the organizational structure required for scalable NPI execution.
• Hire and onboard critical NPI team members.
• Develop execution playbooks and standardized templates for program management and risk tracking.

Measure of Success (6 Months): A structured NPI organization with defined roles and repeatable processes.

4. Drive Operational Rigor Without Slowing Innovation

• Implement structured change management to handle shifting priorities.
• Ensure NPI acts as an enabler, not a bottleneck.
• Introduce launch-readiness reviews to prevent downstream manufacturing and customer-impact issues.
• Partner with Contract Manufacturers (CMs) to ensure smooth production ramp.

Measure of Success: Reduced late engineering changes and improved production handoff quality.

5. Executive Alignment & Strategic Contribution

• Serve as the execution interface between Engineering leadership and executive management.
• Provide data-driven program visibility to support strategic decisions.
• Contribute to long-term scaling strategy of Doodle Labs’ product development organization.

Measure of Success (12 Months): Predictable, transparent product execution roadmap aligned with company growth objectives.

The First 6 Months – Success Timeline

• 0–30 Days: Diagnose current processes, map cross-functional interfaces, establish project visibility.
• 30–60 Days: Design improved NPI governance model and standardize tracking/reporting.
• 60–90 Days: Implement NPI framework and launch executive reporting cadence.
• By 6 Months: Fully operational NPI system with measurable execution improvements.

The Environment

• Fast-growing technology company (US + Singapore footprint).
• High technical complexity (HW, SW, RF systems).
• Multiple concurrent programs.
• Rapidly evolving priorities.
• Direct exposure to executive leadership.

What You Bring

• Experience building or scaling an NPI or program management function in a hardware-driven organization.
• Proven leadership of complex cross-functional technical programs.
• Experience implementing structured development frameworks (stage-gate or similar).
• Ability to manage CM and production ramp challenges.
• Strong systems thinking, communication, and execution discipline.

Why This Role Is Compelling

• Architect the NPI system of a fast-scaling robotics and defense-tech company.
• Influence executive decision-making.
• Build a function from the ground up.
• Direct impact on product launch velocity and company growth.