Leads Vertiv's New Product Development and Introduction (NPDI) 7-gate process end-to-end, managing cross-functional teams across engineering, procurement, and operations using Smartsheet and SharePoint to track schedules, costs, and business case metrics.
The Product Line Project Manager executes Vertiv’s NPDI (New Product Development and Introduction) process end-to-end for assigned product lines. Reporting into the central program management group while embedded within product line engineering teams, this role manages cross-functional project teams through the full 7-gate process—from concept approval through market introduction and project closure—covering all business units.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Lead NPDI projects through all seven phases and gates: Approve Idea → Approve Concept → Approve Development → Approve Launch → Approve Market Introduction → Approve Business Performance → Approve Project Closure
Manage cross-functional project teams spanning Engineering, Operations, Procurement, Advanced Manufacturing, Services, and Global Offering Management
Own the project schedule, gate deliverables, and advancement checklists in Smartsheet; maintain the standard Smartsheet directory and SharePoint structure
Execute the Product Cost Process using standard templates; track actual vs. target cost and Max Cost targets at each gate milestone
Manage the Business Case Calculator (BCC) and revenue model; ensure Revenue, Margin, VCM, Gross Margin, Product Cost, Price, and Volume metrics are on track
Coordinate with Procurement NPDI Leads on Strategic Sourcing Analysis, BOM Health Scorecards, and Single/Sole Source mitigation plans
Provision new projects: name, number, Smartsheet directory, SharePoint site, dashboard, contact lists, and standard schedule
Manage project risks, issues, and action items; maintain a current Risk & Issues Log and escalate blockers to program leadership
Coordinate Technology Readiness Level (TRL) assessments with engineering teams at key gate transitions
Support manufacturing readiness planning and SIOP demand forecasting as products approach commercial launch
Report project status to product line leaders and central PMO leadership; present at gate review meetings
Drive continuous improvement in NPDI process tools, templates, and governance standards
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Operations, or related field; MBA preferred
5–8 years of project management experience in product development, engineering, or manufacturing environments
Demonstrated experience managing stage-gate or phase-gate product development processes end-to-end
Proficiency with Smartsheet, MS Project, or equivalent project management tools
Experience with cross-functional team leadership across engineering, procurement, operations, and commercial functions
Strong knowledge of BOM management, product costing methodologies, and supply chain readiness activities
Experience in Power, Thermal, IT Systems, or critical infrastructure industries preferred
PMP certification required; NPDP or Lean/Six Sigma certification preferred
Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and executive presentation skills; ability to manage multiple concurrent projects