Head of NPD

Role: Head of New Product DevelopmentLocation: ScotlandA leading global engineering organisation is seeking a Head of New Product Developmentto take ownership of a strategically critical innovation portfolio.This is a senior leadership opportunity to shape future product capability, drive cutting-edge development, and deliver impactful solutions to a global customer base.The OpportunityReporting to the Engineering & Innovation Director, this role sits within the global engineering leadership team and is responsible for the successful delivery of the NPD portfolio.You will lead multidisciplinary teams across engineering, product, and operations, ensuring that complex programmes are delivered effectively and aligned to business objectives. This role also involves close engagement with customers to ensure new products meet evolving market needs.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and manage the New Product Development portfolio, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with business objectivesDevelop and maintain the NPD roadmap, supporting future capability development and innovation strategyProvide leadership and oversight to project managers, lead engineers, and integrated project teamsDrive accountability across project teams, ensuring effective delivery, governance, and risk managementEnsure compliance with engineering processes, stage-gate reviews, safety requirements, regulatory standards, export controls, and cybersecurity protocolsMonitor portfolio performance, including delivery timelines, cost performance, and capability maturity KPIsChampion continuous improvement across NPD processes through lean, agile, and systems engineering methodologiesCollaborate with product, engineering, operations, and customer-facing teams to ensure solutions meet evolving customer requirementsSupport the adoption of emerging technologies, including AI, autonomous systems, and advanced materials, within future product developmentWhat Were Looking ForProven experience leading New Product Development, R&D, or innovation programmes within a complex engineering environmentStrong leadership experience within technical or engineering teams, with the ability to influence across multiple functionsDemonstrable experience delivering complex projects from concept through to implementationCommercially aware with the ability to balance innovation, customer requirements, and business objectivesExperienced in project governance, compliance, and structured delivery methodologiesStrong stakeholder management, communication, and presentation skillsDegree qualified in Engineering or a related disciplineExperience within highly regulated industries would be advantageous (e.g Aerospace, Defence,Marine & Subsea Engineering,Energy & Renewables,Medical Devices - will also consider other highly regulated industries)This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-impact innovation function within a global environment, driving the development of advanced technologies and future-focused solutions.For more information or a confidential discussion, please get in touch with Diane Smedley-Nisbet at or call me on 07707 726905TPBN1_UKTJ