Job Description

Smartrend Manufacturing Group (SMG) Inc. is one of Manitoba's fastest-growing companies, committed to increasing safety in the school bus industry and reducing emissions in the electric vehicle charging sector through our diverse divisions. We design and develop exciting, patented, and innovative technologies that make a real and lasting impact across multiple industries.
At the heart of our success are the values that guide everything we do:

• People - our team is what makes us special
• Passion - from our hearts and minds, demonstrated through our actions
• Priority - we put the customer first, every day, in everything we do
• Partnership - with each other, our customers, and our suppliers

We provide a supportive environment where hard work, passions, and goals are recognized. Innovation and collaboration are at the heart of what we do. Share your drive and aspirations with us, and we'll ensure that your efforts open doors to new opportunities and growth.
THE POSITION
The NPI Manager will lead SMG's New Product Introduction (NPI) function, overseeing both project management and engineering activities to ensure that new products are successfully taken from concept through to full-scale manufacturing. This role is the primary customer-facing leader for NPI initiatives, balancing technical execution with relationship management. The NPI Manager must be confident in managing expectations, guiding customers toward realistic solutions, and navigating challenging conversations with professionalism and diplomacy.
HOW YOU WILL BE MAKING AN IMPACT

• Lead the overall NPI function, ensuring product launches are delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest quality.
• Act as the primary customer liaison for NPI projects, providing clear communication and managing expectations with diplomacy.
• Oversee project planning, risk management, and execution across multiple NPI initiatives.
• Lead Designed for Manufacturing (DFM) analysis and provide feedback to the customer (internal and external).
• Collaborate with engineering, supply chain, quality, operations, and finance to enable smooth transitions into production.
• Support supplier qualification, process validation, and compliance with quality standards.
• Coach and mentor the NPI team, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE

• NPI projects consistently delivered on time, on budget, and meet customer's expectations.
• Clear, confident, and professional communication with customers that builds trust and strengthens relationships.
• Smooth coordination across teams, resulting in efficient product launch and transitions into manufacturing.
• Early identification and resolution of risks, keeping projects on track.
• Continuous improvement in NPI processes, systems, and outcomes.
• A high-performing NPI team that is well-supported, engaged, and delivering results.

WHAT SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE YOU REQUIRE

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (Master's or PMP certification preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in product development, manufacturing, project/program management, or NPI, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials. Ability to read drawings and GD&T.
• Strong understanding of the full product lifecycle from design to manufacturing launch.
• Experience working directly with customers, skilled at managing expectations and navigating difficult conversations with diplomacy.
• Proficiency in project management tools (Smartsheet, Jira) and CAD software (SolidWorks preferred).
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

THE BENEFITS OF BEING PART OF OUR TEAM
We believe that a healthy, supported team is key to our success. That's why we offer a benefits package that prioritizes work-life balance, financial wellness, and overall well-being.
Our team members enjoy:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Group insurance plan with health spending account
• Paid Vacation
• Company-paid shutdown from Christmas to New Years
• Matching RRSP program

We would like to thank all applicants who apply, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Skills Required