(Senior) NPI Manager (all genders)

You as part of tonies:

As NPI Manager (all genders) , you play a key role in driving the successful operational execution of new product launches and product changes. Reporting directly to the Head of NPI Operations, you are responsible for managing NPI programs end‑to‑end – from industrialization readiness through ramp‑up into stable serial production.

Your mission is to ensure that new products and changes are launched on time, at target quality, and within planned costs by orchestrating cross‑functional execution across tonies’ global value chain. You act as the operational backbone of the launch process, ensuring structure, transparency, and reliable delivery. This role sits within the Global Product Industrialization organization and works closely with Product Development, Product Industrialization, Quality, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Product & Portfolio Management.

Responsibilities

• NPI Launch Management
  • Own the operational execution of NPI projects in alignment with tonies’ Product Development & Product Variations Process (PDP).
  • Plan, coordinate, and track all operational NPI milestones from the prototype phase through ramp‑up and handover to serial production.
  • Ensure full launch readiness across product, process, supply chain, and production.
  • Actively drive, track, and ensure the closure of all open topics, gaps, and action items throughout the launch lifecycle.
• Launch Control Tower & Performance Transparency
  • Operate and maintain Launch Control Tower structures as the single source of truth for NPI status, risks, and dependencies.
  • Identify, assess, and actively manage risks, issues, and mitigation actions.
  • Prepare, facilitate, and follow up on Launch Readiness Reviews, Ramp‑up Reviews, and escalation forums.
  • Ensure full transparency and accountability for all open points, including clear ownership, timelines, and escalation where needed.
• Cross‑Functional Orchestration
  • Act as the operational interface between Product Development, Product Industrialization, Quality, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Production.
  • Support a seamless transition from development to serial production in close coordination with manufacturing sites and suppliers.
  • Align closely with Product & Portfolio teams on launch priorities and timelines.
• Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence
  • Identify improvement opportunities within NPI processes, tools, and cross‑functional interfaces.
  • Contribute to lessons‑learned activities and feedback loops between development and industrialization.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, or a comparable field.
  • 4–7 years of professional experience in NPI, program/project management, industrialization, or operations.
  • Hands‑on experience managing cross‑functional projects in a manufacturing or product‑driven environment (e.g., consumer electronics, toys, automotive).
  • Experience in ramp‑up management, supplier coordination, and production readiness.
  • Familiarity with PLM, ERP, and/or MES systems is a plus.
  • Fluent in English; German is a strong advantage.
• Skills & Competencies
  • Strong ownership mindset with a structured, execution‑oriented working style.
  • Excellent communication and coordination skills across functions and cultures.
  • Analytical thinking with confidence in managing KPIs, risks, and dependencies.
  • Resilience and adaptability in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
  • Team‑oriented, hands‑on, and driven by operational excellence.

Benefits

• Global Teamwork – Collaboration across departmental and country borders.
• Come as you are – Inclusive work environment.
• Mobility – Choice of public transport ticket, parking contribution, bicycle leasing, or remote work subsidy.
• Enhanced Security – Subsidies for company pension plans, occupational pension schemes, and disability insurance.
• Rest & Time Off – 30 days paid annual leave plus additional days such as Rosenmontag, Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve, and up to 10 unpaid “toniecation days” after one year of employment.
• Continuous Learning – Internal and external training opportunities and an individual learning budget.
• Language Learning & Relaxation – Access to Babbel and Calm apps.
• Discounts – Attractive discounts on the entire range of tonies products.

Inclusion & Diversity

We are committed to supporting inclusion and diversity, actively celebrating colleagues’ different abilities, ethnicities, faith, and gender. Everyone is welcome and supported at all stages in their journey with us.