Manager, Product Development & Improvement (PDI)

About the RoleThe role leads the continuous improvement activities in PDI, which includes optimizing project processes, cost savings initiatives for the business operations (Non-Tobacco Materials & Chemicals) as well as new start-up machinery qualification /capabilities readiness tracking with factories. He/She will lead the innovation projects purchasing activities for new product materials as part of development and commercialization. This role requires strong ownership and leadership in project management to orchestrate the implementation and solutioning with challenging timelines Being both a leader and team player, the PDI Manager, works collaboratively with multi-functional stakeholders in delivering success to the project.He/She is critical in implementing the procurement strategies and policies and managing supplier performance in achieving PDI requirements on time and in full.Responsibilities & DutiesTo kick-off and lead cost improvement projects in click-up project management system and ensure dashboard and project management files are updated real-timeEnsure purchase requisition/PO and delivery for materials critical to projects are executed timely and negotiated with the best lead time from supplier with support from sourcingEnsure short / long CI trials is executed correctly and timely with key stakeholders’ involvementReview trial reports and samples quality requirement for sign off at HQ by relevant DOAWork closely with sourcing stakeholder to explore new suppliers that can better support the company business goals on cost effective and quality in materials supply for productionPrice and specs validation and justification for supplier selection for new material specificationResponsible for monitoring delivery schedules to ensure commercial materials replacement are completed on time and in fullPublishing of key purchasing performance report required on procurement activities to include and not limited to Spent, Active PO Tracking and On-Time Delivery (OTD), etcCoordinate the master project lists update between project owners and respective department stakeholdersTo develop excellent and effective collaborative relationships with key stakeholders and external providers and other agencies to ensure strategic and operational needs are fully understood and incorporated.Uphold and observe corporate governance and compliance to promote awareness and transparency.To drive continuous improvement, best value and quality improvements within the team and departments in challenging existing practices and actively seek ways to achieve better outcomes, contributing to ensure key performance and financial targets are met and corrective action taken where necessary.Any other ad-hoc projects assigned by immediate reporting and must be hands-on.QualificationsDegree in Supply Chain Management/Engineering with prior experience on supplier management will also be consideredPrior experience in/supply to tobacco industry will be added advantageAt least 5 years proven work experience in process management, supply chain or product development.Fluent in Mandarin would be an advantage and English is a must.Preferably working experience in Manufacturing/Production, Electrical, Mechanical industries.Meticulous, systematic, organizes, proactive, good analytical skills and sound business judgement