Project Analyst - New Product Introduction (NPI)
Job Summary:
The Project Associate will be responsible for leading and overseeing all aspects of New Product Introduction (NPI) projects, from initial kick-off to final delivery. This role involves managing timelines, risk assessments, budget controls, communication plans, and KPIs, while ensuring projects are executed efficiently, aligning with business objectives, and regular reporting progress to the departmental leadership team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in operations within the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) industry and a strong track record in managing KPIs to drive project success.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead Kick-Off Meetings (KOM):
- Own and lead the kick-off meetings (KOM) for all assigned projects, ensuring all project stakeholders are aligned on project objectives, timelines, roles, and responsibilities.
- Timeline Creation and Management:
- Build and create end-to-end timelines for NPI projects, ensuring that all tasks, milestones, and deadlines are clearly defined, achievable, and monitored throughout the project lifecycle.
- Risk Management and Assessment:
- Identify, assess, and manage risks associated with NPI projects. Develop and implement strategies for risk mitigation and manage risk assessment processes to minimize potential impacts on project success.
- Budget Control and Business Case Analysis:
- Manage project budgets effectively, ensuring all costs are tracked and controlled within allocated limits. Conduct regular business case analysis to ensure that the project is financially viable and aligns with organizational goals.
- Communication Plan Development:
- Develop and implement comprehensive communication plans for each project, ensuring that relevant stakeholders are kept informed throughout the project lifecycle. This includes project progress, risks, issues, and any required decisions.
- Project Plan Monitoring and Updates:
- Continuously monitor and update project plans, ensuring that they remain accurate and reflect any changes in scope, timeline, or resources. Take corrective action when necessary to ensure project success.
- Scope Management and Adjustments:
- Register and update the project scope regularly, ensuring any changes or deviations are accurately captured and assessed for their impact on the overall project timeline and deliverables.
- Executive Reporting:
- Regularly report to the departmental leadership on project status, milestones, and performance through NPI meeting reviews, ensuring all critical issues and risks are highlighted for decision-making.
- Operations Experience in manufacturing Industry:
- Bring a deep understanding of operations in the manufacturing industry, ensuring that NPI projects are closely aligned with operational requirements, production capabilities, and supply chain constraints. Leverage this experience to ensure smooth implementation of new products into the market.
- KPI Management:
- Develop and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) for project success, including project timelines, budget adherence, quality standards, and operational efficiency. Regularly review project performance against these KPIs, taking corrective actions as necessary to keep the project on track.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering.
- Proven experience managing NPI projects or similar initiatives within the FMCG industry.
- Strong knowledge of project management methodologies, tools, and processes.
- Experience in managing KPIs to drive project success and operational efficiency.
- Deep understanding of operations in the FMCG sector, including production, supply chain, and distribution.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.
- Attention to detail
- Analytical thinking
- Situational Awareness
- Ability to work cross-functionally with different teams and stakeholders.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Experience with project management software and tools.
