Research & Development Manager (Hardware)
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CWD designs, markets & sells the highest performing consumer electronics that are smart, simple, and stylish. From high fidelity turntables to wireless video connectivity systems, we create innovative products that empower people. Our success is measured in our customer satisfaction ratings and dedicated following. We have been in business since 1961 and our creations can be found in millions of homes. Together in teams, as a company, as a community, we are committed to Creating What’s Different!
What We Offer
- Full comprehensive benefits (dental, medical and eye) 80 / 20 split-family coverage
- Annual Bonus
- Annual professional development fund
- RRSP Match
- Fitness incentives
- Team events
- 50% off on CWD brands
- Relocation expense
Key Responsibilities
Leadership
Oversee and provide strategic leadership to the New Product Development Manager and the Quality TeamEmpower the team by aligning departmental goals with corporate objectives and sharing the broader business strategyDevelop annual department objectives that integrate category strategy, product innovation, and quality improvementsEstablish clear priorities, ensure alignment across teams, and maintain focus on strategic goalsDrive collaboration across departments as the key stakeholder for product and category strategyMentor team leaders by identifying skill gaps, providing development plans, and conducting performance reviewsOptimize efficiency through process automation and continuous improvement initiativesCategory & Product Strategy
Create category and product plans for our brands (Fluance, Electrohome, Nyrius and Magnasonic) based on a thorough review and understanding of consumer needs, competitor offerings, lessons learned, customer / professional reviews and other dataGuide the NPD Manager in aligning product development initiatives with category strategy and corporate goalsReview financial and market performance data (e.g., margin analysis, sales trends, product performance) to inform strategic decisionsCollaborate with Marketing to ensure effective product positioning and brand differentiationOversee the submission and maintenance of product patents and brand trademarksNew Product Development
Set the strategic vision for new product development, ensuring alignment with business growth objectivesWork closely with the NPD Manager to establish and maintain the annual product pipelineOversee high-level decision‑making for NPD projects, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to achieve business objectives.Ensure that all products meet the highest performance and user experience standards while maintaining profitabilitySupport the NPD Manager in overcoming development challenges and ensuring milestones are metEnsure all products sold internationally comply with regional safety regulations and certification requirements, including proper application of safety certifications and royalties during developmentEvaluate and select the best suited technologies for each new product development projectAchieve profit margin targets for each product in development by negotiating costs and managing other costs (logistics, amortization, etc.)Vendor Management
Develop and maintain high‑level partnerships with key suppliers, engineering firms, and manufacturing partnersLead negotiations on pricing, terms, and agreements with vendorsOversee vendor performance and ensure alignment with long‑term business strategyQuality Assurance
Set quality assurance objectives and oversee defect rates, return rates, and overall product performanceCollaborate with the Quality Team to drive improvements in product reliability and complianceTake a hands‑on approach in addressing complex quality issues and product testing when necessaryOversee the development of quality control documentation and ensure effective production auditsOther
Develop and monitor annual department budgetOrganize and plan business trips throughout the year to meet with overseas vendors and attend trade showsUndertake additional duties as assigned to achieve the objectives and company goalsQualifications
University degree in Business, Marketing, Electronics Engineering, or a related field7‑10 years of experience in product management, category strategy, or R&D leadership7‑10 years of experience in project management and vendor relations7 years of experience in market research and competitive analysis5+ years of experience leading product development teams and managing team leaders5+ years of vendor management experience, including contract negotiations5 years demonstrated experience in consumer electronics hardwareStrategic thinker with strong analytical and problem‑solving skillsExcellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilitiesAbility to manage multiple projects and drive strategic initiativesWilling to travel to business partners in United States, Canada, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Europe and other locations as required (2‑4 times per year) as well as industry trade shows (2‑4 times per year)Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management software (e.g., ClickUp)You Will Stand Out If
You have experience managing multiple product categoriesYou have your PMP designation or Six Sigma designationThis is a full‑time permanent role working 40 hours a week on‑site. Our hours of operation are 8 : 15am to 5 : 00pm Monday to Friday.
If the above interests you, then apply to join our fast paced, creative, and energetic team!
CWD is an equal opportunity employer and is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We are committed to providing accommodation for people with disabilities throughout the recruitment process, and upon request, will work with qualified job applicants to provide suitable accommodation in a manner that takes into account the applicant’s accessibility needs due to disability. Applicants must make their accommodation needs known upon requests for interviews.
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