The Mission
Doodle Labs is entering its next phase of scale. As we expand our robotics and wireless product portfolio across global defense and commercial markets, we need a leader who will build and operationalize a world-class New Product Introduction (NPI) function.
This role is not about tracking projects. It is about designing and enforcing the execution engine that ensures complex HW/SW products move from concept to release with speed, rigor, and predictability.
You will architect the NPI system, lead cross-functional execution, and create the operational discipline that enables Doodle Labs to scale without losing velocity.
What You'll Do (Performance Objectives)
1. Establish the NPI Operating Framework (First 90 Days)
- Within 30 days, conduct a full diagnostic of current product development workflows, interfaces (HW, SW, QA, Product, Operations, Sales), and execution gaps.
- Within 60 days, design a structured stage-gate NPI framework with clear entry/exit criteria, ownership matrix (RACI), risk management structure, and executive reporting cadence.
- Within 90 days, implement the NPI governance model across all active projects using a standardized project tracking system, ensuring 100% project visibility and milestone alignment.
Measure of Success: All active NPI programs are tracked under a unified framework with defined accountability and escalation paths.
2. Lead Cross-Functional Program Execution
- Own end-to-end NPI execution across multiple concurrent technical programs.
- Ensure alignment between Engineering (HW/SW), QA, Product, Operations, and Sales.
- Establish weekly and monthly executive reporting on program health, risks, and mitigation plans.
- Create structured change-control processes to reduce late-stage execution failures.
Measure of Success (6-12 Months): Measurable improvement in on-time milestone achievement and reduction in cross-functional execution gaps.
3. Build and Develop the NPI Function
- Define the organizational structure required for scalable NPI execution.
- Hire and onboard critical NPI team members.
- Develop execution playbooks and standardized templates for program management and risk tracking.
Measure of Success (6 Months): A structured NPI organization with defined roles and repeatable processes.
4. Drive Operational Rigor Without Slowing Innovation
- Implement structured change management to handle shifting priorities.
- Ensure NPI acts as an enabler, not a bottleneck.
- Introduce launch-readiness reviews to prevent downstream manufacturing and customer-impact issues.
- Partner with Contract Manufacturers (CMs) to ensure smooth production ramp.
Measure of Success: Reduced late engineering changes and improved production handoff quality.
5. Executive Alignment & Strategic Contribution
- Serve as the execution interface between Engineering leadership and executive management.
- Provide data-driven program visibility to support strategic decisions.
- Contribute to long-term scaling strategy of Doodle Labs product development organization.
Measure of Success (12 Months): Predictable, transparent product execution roadmap aligned with company growth objectives.
The First 6 Months - Success Timeline
- 0-30 Days: Diagnose current processes, map cross-functional interfaces, establish project visibility.
- 30-60 Days: Design improved NPI governance model and standardize tracking/reporting.
- 60-90 Days: Implement NPI framework and launch executive reporting cadence.
- By 6 Months: Fully operational NPI system with measurable execution improvements.
The Environment
- Fast-growing technology company (US + Singapore footprint).
- High technical complexity (HW, SW, RF systems).
- Multiple concurrent programs.
- Rapidly evolving priorities.
- Direct exposure to executive leadership.
What You Bring
- Experience building or scaling an NPI or program management function in a hardware-driven organization.
- Proven leadership of complex cross-functional technical programs.
- Experience implementing structured development frameworks (stage-gate or similar).
- Ability to manage CM and production ramp challenges.
- Strong systems thinking, communication, and execution discipline.
Why This Role Is Compelling
- Architect the NPI system of a fast-scaling robotics and defense-tech company.
- Influence executive decision-making.
- Build a function from the ground up.
- Direct impact on product launch velocity and company growth.
