General Manager, Product Development Center

General managers of centers for product development are employed in facilities that develop concepts for the design of innovative or enhanced products that are on the market. The manager is responsible for directing the development team of product designers and therefore, strong leadership skills are required for this job. They could also be responsible for administrative responsibilities, like scheduling hiring, paying and giving feedback on performance to employees. They may also set timelines for the completion of projects and also schedule and conduct meetings.

The team responsible for product development under the supervision of the manager is usually accountable for the creation of designs for prototypes and product concepts. They could also be involved in the production and distribution stages. The general manager might be required to interact with customers, particularly during the testing phase to collect their opinions. Managers may also offer suggestions on how products could be improved and designed and therefore a thorough understanding of the latest and emerging technology within the field can be extremely useful.

The general managers of the production centers can choose the materials that are used in making products, and it is crucial to reduce costs without compromising quality. A strong research background is essential to keep current with the latest developments in the field, and also the competitors. The products that are developed may require evaluation to determine their efficacy and ways to be improved. Typically, a bachelor's degree or more from a university in the field of engineering will be required by companies, and some experience in the area of product development is needed.

As a General Manager in a Product Development Center with 9+ years of experience in the United States, your main responsibility include:

• Leading and managing a team of product developers, ensuring their productivity and adherence to project timelines.

For a General Manager, Product Development Center job role, the following qualifications are required:

• Extensive experience in product development and innovation, with a proven track record of successful product launches and market penetration.
• Strong leadership and management skills to effectively oversee and coordinate cross-functional teams, ensuring efficient and timely execution of projects.
• Exceptional strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities to identify market trends, customer needs, and opportunities for growth, driving product development strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with stakeholders, including executives, customers, and development teams, fostering strong relationships and ensuring alignment.

The role of a General Manager in a Product Development Center with 9+ years of experience in the United States is essential for effective leadership and successful business growth. For professionals seeking alternative roles, consider these following options:

• Director of Operations: A position responsible for overseeing all aspects of business operations, including production, logistics, and supply chain management.
• Business Development Manager: A role focused on identifying new growth opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and driving sales revenue.
• Project Manager: A position involving planning, execution, and monitoring of projects to ensure timely delivery, resource allocation, and stakeholder management.
• Quality Assurance Manager: A role dedicated to maintaining and improving product quality standards, implementing quality control processes, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

The projected growth of the General Manager, Product Development Center role in the United States market is promising. Over the last 10 years, the job has witnessed steady growth, with an increasing number of companies establishing product development centers. With advancements in technology and consumer demands evolving, this trend is expected to continue. According to recent data points from Google, the employment opportunities for General Managers in this field are expected to grow significantly in the coming years. The role will play a crucial part in driving innovation, managing product development processes, and meeting market demands.