VP of Product Development & Engineering, ABG

Brunswick Corporation•Mettawa, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Lead the strategic direction, align structure, and establish systems and tools of Brunswick Aluminum Boat Group (ABG) PD&E organization consistent with the broader Brunswick Boat Group PD&E standards. Standardize work and processes that align with HPPD process to ensure product designs meet and exceed product charters and are in line with ABYC and US Coast Guard requirements. Lead the development and technical design for Lund, Lowe, Crestliner, Harris, Thunder Jet and Princecraft for innovative new models of fishing boats and pontoons. Work closely with other Brunswick PD&E department leaders to learn and leverage new technologies, processes, software and materials to lead the marine industry. This role is responsible for leading and directing the Product Development and Engineering (PD&E) Team that designs, develops, and launches these boats into production. In addition, lead the ABG functionality and team members supporting Program Management across the enterprise.

Requirements

Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, Naval Architecture, or equivalent
12+ years’ experience in design and development / leadership in marine, powersports, off-road or auto industries
Considerable experience in a manufacturing environment
Product and process design experience with extrusions, sheet metal, fiberglass, and marine furniture – including application of GD&T
Being well organized and having excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office tools – including Project
Exceptional skills in 3D CAD / SolidWorks and PDM – including BOM Structures and systems
Familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems (Teamcenter)
Experience using / working with others using FEA and CFD tools
The ability to prioritize, delegate, and making decisions in a fast-paced environment
Experience with component and vehicle level testing
Being a self-starter being capable of working as part of a team and independently
Having a basic understanding of hydrodynamics
The ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and prioritize as necessary
A passion for problem solving, using tools, data, and experience appropriately
Ability to travel 50%
Experience developing and keeping a departmental budget
Strong people leadership: the ability to motivate, and build great teams

Responsibilities

Lead the PD&E team through the development process – including engaging and working with all other functions of the business
Coordinate with Tech center to align technical systems, software and testing processes
Look to lead and implement low-cost country engineering to improve cost and project timelines
Develop new products that win in the marketplace and improve financial performance
Develop boats that meet or exceed customer requirements, cost, performance, quality, reliability, manufacturability, appearance/style, durability, etc.
Create and implement an appropriate validation plan for all components, systems, and boats, reliability, durability, and voice of customer requirements while leveraging the Tech Center capabilities
Establish resource planning guidelines and coordinate with brands for alignment of resources and budgets
Manage the development of appropriate documentation, e.g. drawings, models, etc.
Maintain expertise in latest technological trends and best practices within and outside of the Marine industry and bring new technology options to the aluminum boat businesses
Execute advanced engineering and innovation projects
Design for manufacturability to improve model year transition
Build a high-performance team of primarily internal resources – external as applicable
Lead select problem solving, cost reduction / value improvement, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Coordinate efforts between PD&E and all other functions in the business as appropriate
Develop and maintain a working knowledge of relevant compliance requirements, i.e. USCG, ABYC, NMMA, and CE, and routinely apply it
Provide technical support to Manufacturing, Sales, Marketing, and Customer Service
Engage with dealers / customers / end-users
Develop team through individual development process, exposure and leadership of processes…stretch team to develop and learn
Lead the ABG VAVE program and process
Lead the ABG Program management team & supporting processes