NPDI Prototyping Continuous Improvement Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: NPDI Prototyping Continuous Improvement Manager

Company: Vertiv

Location: Westerville, OH, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations / Process Improvement / Product Development

Date Posted: May 19, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive operational excellence within the New Product Development and Introduction (NPDI) lifecycle, with a specific focus on prototyping processes.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to significantly reduce prototype cycle times and enhance the quality of engineering and manufacturing prototypes.

• Define, track, and report on critical prototype metrics and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to senior leadership, providing actionable insights.

• Implement lean principles and advanced methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma and Design Thinking to identify and eliminate waste in product development workflows.

• Foster cross-functional collaboration between Engineering, Program Management, Procurement, and Advanced/Manufacturing Engineering to ensure seamless process integration and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is deeply embedded within the product development lifecycle, aiming to optimize the critical early stages of prototyping. It requires a strong blend of process engineering, project management, and change leadership to drive tangible improvements in speed and quality for new product introductions. The focus on "go to the gemba" indicates a hands-on approach to understanding and improving operational processes directly at the source.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the continuous improvement of NPDI prototype processes for both engineering and manufacturing prototypes, focusing on enhancing quality and reducing cycle time.

• Partner with Product Line development teams to conduct thorough root cause analysis for process issues or schedule delays, and implement permanent corrective actions.

• Define, establish, and report on prototype process metrics, key insights, and comprehensive improvement plans to senior leadership.

• Apply lean principles and Kaizen events to reduce waste, standardize work through documented procedures, and support adoption via communication and training.

• Conduct on-site working sessions and workshops ("go to the gemba") to observe processes, identify issues, and drive tangible improvements in prototype development.

• Provide regular status updates, progress reports, and strategic improvement plans to senior management.

• Support Product Line Program Managers by documenting critical project paths, benchmarking portfolio norms, and identifying root causes for schedule slips or extended time-to-market (TTM).

• Collaborate closely with Product Line Program Managers, Engineering, Advanced/Manufacturing Engineering, and Procurement to define critical-path steps, sequence activities, remove roadblocks, and deliver measurable prototype process improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a proactive, hands-on role that requires not only strategic thinking but also the ability to execute and drive change at the operational level. The emphasis on "permanent corrective actions" and "removing roadblocks" highlights the need for problem-solving skills and influence across departments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a closely related technical field is required.

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated expertise in Continuous Improvement methodologies and their application in product development environments.

• Strong proficiency in Operational Excellence principles and practices, with a proven track record of driving efficiency.

• Experience with Root Cause Analysis techniques to identify and resolve complex process issues.

• Ability to define, track, and interpret Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for process performance and improvement.

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively cross-functionally with diverse teams including Engineering, Program Management, and Procurement.

• Excellent communication skills, capable of articulating complex information clearly and concisely to all levels of the organization, including senior leadership.

• Self-starter with the ability to take high-level instructions and convert them into comprehensive, end-to-end action plans.

• High self-motivation, drive, inquisitiveness, and strong curiosity with critical thinking skills to arrive at correct conclusions and drive proper countermeasures.

• Strong ability to summarize large amounts of information into clear and concise summaries for actioning.

• Ability to take direction, lead ad-hoc teams, and drive for results in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) or Lean Six Sigma (LSS) Black Belt or Green Belt certification.

• Experience with Design Thinking methodologies for innovation and problem-solving.

• Familiarity with Google AppSheet for application development and workflow automation.

• Experience in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems and processes.

• Knowledge of NPDI (New Product Development and Introduction) processes and phase-gate methodologies.

• Experience in Prototyping processes, including engineering and manufacturing prototypes.

• Familiarity with Kaizen events and other lean manufacturing/development tools.

• Experience with Critical Path Analysis and Time-to-Market (TTM) reduction strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience in Operational Excellence within complex product development organizations, combined with specific methodologies like DFSS/LSS and Design Thinking, positions this role as a senior contributor. The emphasis on self-starting, critical thinking, and summarizing complex information suggests a need for strong analytical and leadership capabilities beyond just process execution. Proficiency in MS Office is essential, with Google AppSheet being a significant plus, indicating a potential for leveraging custom tools in the operations environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successfully implementing process improvements that resulted in measurable gains in efficiency and cycle time reduction within product development or manufacturing settings.

• Showcase experience in defining and tracking operational metrics and KPIs, with examples of how data was used to drive decision-making and demonstrate ROI.

• Provide evidence of experience with system implementations or improvements, detailing the process flow and the impact of the changes.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of workflow design and optimization, illustrating your ability to map current state processes, identify inefficiencies, and design improved future state workflows.

• Present documentation related to the implementation of process changes, including communication plans, training materials, and change management strategies.

• Provide examples of how you have established measurement and performance analysis frameworks to monitor the effectiveness of implemented processes and ensure sustained improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on continuous improvement and operational excellence, a portfolio demonstrating tangible results is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to articulate specific instances of process optimization, highlighting the methodology used, the challenges overcome, and the quantifiable benefits achieved, particularly within NPDI or similar product development contexts.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated annual salary range for this position in Westerville, OH, is between $125,000 to $170,000. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles requiring 10+ years of experience in Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement within the manufacturing and technology sectors in the Ohio region. Factors such as specific skill set, advanced degrees, and prior experience within complex product development organizations can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage options.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) plan with company matching contributions.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance and short/long-term disability coverage.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications (e.g., Lean Six Sigma), and attendance at industry conferences.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.

• Tuition Reimbursement: Support for continuing education relevant to career growth.

Working Hours:

This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. While standard business hours are expected, flexibility may be required to accommodate project deadlines, cross-functional team meetings across different time zones, and "go to the gemba" activities. The role is expected to be performed primarily on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on prevailing market rates for a senior-level Continuous Improvement Manager in the specified location and industry. The benefits package is typical for a large, global organization like Vertiv, offering standard provisions to support employee well-being and professional growth. The emphasis on on-site work with potential flexibility aligns with the hands-on nature of the role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Vertiv operates in the critical infrastructure technology sector, serving data centers, communication networks, and commercial/industrial facilities. This industry is characterized by rapid technological advancement, high demands for reliability, and a focus on efficiency and sustainability. The company's product portfolio includes power, thermal, and infrastructure management solutions, making it a key player in enabling vital applications for modern IT and industrial systems.

Company Size: Vertiv is a large global organization with nearly 31,000 employees worldwide and reported revenues of $8.0 billion (as stated in the description, though an older version mentions $5 billion). This scale indicates a well-established corporate structure with extensive resources, global reach, and diverse operational processes. For operations professionals, this means opportunities for significant impact within a structured environment, exposure to complex global supply chains, and potential for career advancement across various business units and geographies.

Founded: Vertiv was established as a standalone company in 2016, though its heritage traces back to other entities. This relatively recent establishment as an independent entity suggests a dynamic environment that blends the stability of a large corporation with the agility and growth-oriented mindset of a newer business. This can translate into a culture that values innovation, rapid execution, and continuous evolution of processes and strategies.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Global Product Development Office (GPDO) team, under the Product Transformation/Products & Solutions function. This suggests a centralized operations or process excellence group focused on optimizing the company's product development lifecycle.

• The NPDI Prototype Continuous Improvement Manager will likely report to a higher-level director or VP within Product Transformation or Engineering, overseeing a team or driving initiatives across multiple product lines.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: The role emphasizes defining and tracking KPIs, conducting root cause analysis, and reporting insights to senior leadership, indicating a strong data-driven approach.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: Core responsibilities involve identifying and implementing improvements to prototype processes, standardizing work, and reducing cycle times, reflecting a focus on process optimization.

• Automation and Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly stated as a primary focus, the drive for cycle time reduction and waste elimination through lean principles inherently supports automation and efficiency-focused practices. The mention of Google AppSheet also points towards potential use of custom applications for process enhancement.

Company Website: https://www.vertiv.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Vertiv's position as a global leader in critical infrastructure technology suggests a demanding environment where operational efficiency, reliability, and speed are paramount. The GPDO team's mission to improve PLM processes, particularly NPDI, highlights the strategic importance of this role in bringing new products to market faster and more effectively. The company's size and structure offer significant opportunities for a process-oriented professional to make a substantial impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as a senior-level management role, requiring over 10 years of specialized experience in Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement within product development. It is positioned as a key contributor responsible for driving strategic initiatives that have a direct impact on product development cycle times and quality. The scope includes leading cross-functional teams and reporting directly to senior leadership, indicating a significant level of responsibility and influence.

Reporting Structure: The role is within the Global Product Development Office (GPDO) and the Product Transformation/Products & Solutions function. The manager will likely report to a Director or VP level within these departments, who oversees product lifecycle management and process improvement strategies. Peer relationships will be critical with Product Line Program Managers and leaders in Engineering, Procurement, and Advanced Manufacturing, requiring strong collaboration and influence.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is on accelerating the time-to-market for new products by optimizing the crucial prototyping phase. By reducing cycle times and improving prototype quality, the manager directly contributes to faster product launches, increased competitiveness, and potentially reduced development costs. This operational efficiency also supports the company's strategic priorities of Operational Excellence, Innovation, and Customer Focus, ultimately impacting financial strength.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Leadership: Advancement to higher leadership roles within the GPDO, Product Transformation, or broader Operations functions, potentially managing larger teams or broader functional areas.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas of product development process improvement, lean manufacturing, or advanced prototyping techniques, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunities to lead larger, more complex, cross-functional projects or initiatives that span multiple departments or business units.

• Global Exposure: Potential to work on global initiatives, collaborate with international teams, and contribute to the standardization of processes across Vertiv's worldwide operations.

• Certifications and Training: Access to company-sponsored training and certifications in areas like Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, Project Management Professional (PMP), or other advanced operational methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within operations and product development leadership. The focus on tangible process improvements and strategic impact provides a strong foundation for advancement. The company's global presence and diverse product lines present ample opportunities for learning and growth for ambitious operations professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position located at Vertiv's Westerville, OH facility. The work environment is likely a corporate office setting, which may include access to engineering labs, prototyping facilities, and manufacturing areas where "gemba" observations will take place. The culture emphasizes collaboration and hands-on problem-solving.

Office Location(s):

• Westerville, Ohio, United States: This location serves as the primary work base. Westerville is a suburb of Columbus, offering a moderate cost of living and access to a skilled workforce. Proximity to manufacturing and engineering facilities is crucial for the "go to the gemba" aspect of the role.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires extensive interaction with various departments, suggesting a workspace that facilitates teamwork, brainstorming, and cross-functional meetings.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to standard office technology (MS Office Suite) is confirmed, with a preference for Google AppSheet. The environment likely involves access to product development tools, PLM systems, and data analysis platforms, though specific tools beyond Excel are not detailed.

• Team Interaction: The manager will engage daily with engineering teams, program managers, and potentially manufacturing personnel, fostering a dynamic and interactive work atmosphere focused on problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Work Schedule:

The standard work schedule is typically 40 hours per week. However, given the nature of continuous improvement and product development, there may be a need for flexibility to attend crucial meetings, conduct on-site observations ("go to the gemba"), or address urgent project roadblocks outside of standard hours. The role is fundamentally on-site, emphasizing direct engagement with operational processes and teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Westerville, OH, is critical. Candidates should be prepared for a hands-on role that involves frequent interaction with engineering and manufacturing environments. The emphasis on "go to the gemba" implies that the workspace extends beyond a traditional office to the actual locations where prototypes are developed and built.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

The interview process is likely to be multi-stage, designed to assess technical expertise, problem-solving skills, leadership potential, and cultural fit.

1. Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and interest in the role.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager, focusing on technical skills, experience with continuous improvement methodologies, and understanding of the NPDI process.

3. Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from Engineering, Program Management, and Procurement. These sessions will likely involve behavioral questions and scenario-based problem-solving relevant to cross-functional collaboration and process improvement.

4. Process/Technical Assessment: This may involve a case study, a presentation of past work (portfolio review), or a technical challenge related to root cause analysis, KPI definition, or process optimization.

5. Senior Leadership Interview: A final interview with a senior executive to assess strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and overall fit with Vertiv's culture and strategic priorities.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project or initiative presented, clearly state the problem, your role, the actions taken, and the quantifiable results (e.g., "reduced prototype cycle time by 15%," "improved prototype quality score by 10%," "eliminated X hours of wasted labor per build").

• Showcase Methodology: Detail the specific continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, Design Thinking) and tools (root cause analysis, Kaizen, process mapping) you utilized.

• Highlight Collaboration: Emphasize how you partnered with different functions (Engineering, Procurement, Manufacturing) to achieve outcomes, providing examples of effective communication and stakeholder management.

• Focus on NPDI Context: Tailor examples to demonstrate experience within product development, prototyping, or manufacturing environments, showing an understanding of the challenges specific to bringing new products to market.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or impact area, with clear titles, summaries, and visual aids where appropriate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Simulation/Analysis: Be prepared for a task that requires you to analyze a given process (e.g., a simplified prototype build process) and identify areas for improvement, potential bottlenecks, or risks.

• Root Cause Analysis Exercise: You might be presented with a problem (e.g., a recurring prototype delay) and asked to walk through your approach to identifying the root cause.

• KPI Development: You could be asked to propose relevant KPIs for measuring prototype development efficiency and quality.

• Presentation Skills: Practice articulating your thought process, solutions, and recommendations concisely and persuasively, as you may need to present your findings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes not only technical proficiency in continuous improvement but also the ability to collaborate effectively and drive change within a complex product development organization. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates quantifiable results and a structured problem-solving approach will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: High proficiency required, especially MS Excel for data analysis, charting, and potentially Pivot Tables for summarizing large datasets related to prototype metrics and performance.

• Google AppSheet: Strongly preferred. This indicates a potential need or opportunity to develop or utilize custom applications for workflow automation, data collection, and process management within the NPDI prototyping function.

• PLM Systems: While not explicitly named, experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software is highly relevant given the role's focus on NPDI and product development processes.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools used for project planning, scheduling, and tracking critical paths (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira) will be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: As mentioned, a primary tool for data analysis and reporting on KPIs.

• BI Tools (Potential): While not specified, experience with Business Intelligence tools like Tableau, Power BI, or even Vertiv's internal analytics platforms would be advantageous for creating dashboards and visualizing performance data for senior leadership.

• Data Collection Tools: Experience with systems or methods for collecting prototype-related data, which could include internal databases, shared spreadsheets, or custom applications.

CRM & Automation:

• Workflow Automation Tools (e.g., Google AppSheet): Potential to design or manage automated workflows to streamline prototype ordering, tracking, or approval processes.

• ERP Systems: Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) can be helpful for understanding the broader context of product development, procurement, and manufacturing integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack leans towards essential office productivity tools (MS Office) with a strong preference for a low-code/no-code application development platform (Google AppSheet), suggesting an emphasis on agile development of operational tools. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they leverage these tools to drive process improvements and data-driven decision-making.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Operational Excellence: This is a core strategic priority for Vertiv and a foundational value for this role. It translates to a continuous drive for efficiency, quality, and reliability in all operational processes, especially NPDI prototyping.

• Customer Focus: While this role is internal-facing within product development, the ultimate goal is to deliver high-quality products to external customers faster. This value means understanding how process improvements impact the end customer experience and product competitiveness.

• Drive Continuous Improvement: This behavior is explicitly listed and is central to the role. It implies a culture that encourages proactive problem-solving, learning from mistakes, and consistently seeking better ways of working.

• Own It: Candidates are expected to take initiative, responsibility, and ownership of their work and the outcomes of their improvement initiatives.

• Act With Urgency: Given the focus on reducing cycle times and time-to-market, a sense of urgency and the ability to prioritize effectively are critical.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role necessitates strong collaboration across Engineering, Program Management, Procurement, and Manufacturing. This suggests an environment that values teamwork and open communication between departments to achieve common goals.

• Process Review Culture: A willingness to actively participate in and lead process reviews, Kaizen events, and "gemba" walks is expected. This implies a culture that embraces constructive feedback and shared learning.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Collaboration is expected to be informed by data and objective analysis, rather than solely opinion. This supports a rational and evidence-based approach to problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vertiv's emphasis on "Core Principals" and "Behaviors" like Integrity, Respect, Teamwork, and Drive Continuous Improvement indicates a culture that values both ethical conduct and proactive performance. The "Own It" and "Act With Urgency" behaviors highlight an expectation for high-impact, results-oriented individuals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Gaining buy-in and driving consistent adoption of new processes across multiple departments with potentially competing priorities can be challenging.

• Resistance to Change: Overcoming inertia and resistance to new ways of working from individuals or teams accustomed to established practices.

• Data Availability and Quality: Ensuring accurate and timely data collection for prototype metrics across diverse engineering and manufacturing activities can be complex.

• Balancing Speed and Quality: The inherent tension between reducing cycle time and maintaining or improving prototype quality requires careful management and robust process controls.

• Global Process Standardization: If applicable, harmonizing processes across different regions or product lines can present logistical and cultural hurdles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Lean Six Sigma: Potential to pursue Master Black Belt certification or specialized training in advanced problem-solving techniques.

• Product Development Lifecycle Mastery: Deepen expertise in all phases of NPDI, from concept to launch, and understand their interdependencies.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to hone leadership skills through managing projects, leading teams, and presenting to senior executives.

• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to cutting-edge practices in product development, prototyping, and operational excellence through company-sponsored events, webinars, and internal knowledge sharing.

• Technology Adoption: Learning to leverage new tools like Google AppSheet or advanced analytics platforms to enhance operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex operational challenges within a critical business function. The company's commitment to continuous improvement and employee development provides a strong framework for skill enhancement and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you identified a significant bottleneck in a product development or manufacturing process and what steps you took to resolve it. What were the results?" (Focus on root cause analysis, action planning, and quantifiable outcomes.)

• "How would you go about defining and implementing key performance indicators (KPIs) for a prototype development process? What metrics would you prioritize and why?" (Assess understanding of measurement, data-driven improvement, and strategic alignment.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on what you know about Vertiv, how do you see your role as NPDI Prototyping Continuous Improvement Manager contributing to our strategic priorities, particularly Operational Excellence and Innovation?" (Demonstrate research and alignment with company goals.)

• "Our core behaviors include 'Own It' and 'Act With Urgency.' Can you give an example from your experience that exemplifies these behaviors in a challenging situation?" (Assess alignment with company values and work ethic.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Impact: Begin your portfolio presentation by highlighting your most significant achievements and the overall value you bring to an organization.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your innovative solution, the collaborative effort, and the measurable positive outcome. Use visuals (charts, process maps) to illustrate your points.

• Focus on Process and Data: Clearly articulate the processes you improved, the data you used to identify issues and measure success, and the methodologies you applied.

• Connect to Vertiv: Whenever possible, draw parallels between your experience and the requirements of the NPDI Prototyping Continuous Improvement Manager role at Vertiv. Show how your skills directly address their needs.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about the specifics of your projects, your role in decision-making, and how you handled obstacles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating your experience with concrete examples that showcase your problem-solving skills, process improvement methodologies, and ability to drive change in a product development context. Demonstrating an understanding of Vertiv's values and strategic priorities will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the official Vertiv careers portal via the provided link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience with NPDI, prototyping, continuous improvement methodologies (Lean Six Sigma, DFSS, Design Thinking), root cause analysis, KPI tracking, cross-functional leadership, and proficiency in MS Excel. Use keywords from the job description to ensure ATS compatibility.

• Develop Your Portfolio: Prepare a concise portfolio (or be ready to discuss specific examples) showcasing 2-3 key projects where you successfully improved operational processes, reduced cycle times, or enhanced quality. Quantify your achievements with specific metrics and clearly articulate your role and the methodologies used.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare detailed responses to common behavioral and situational questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Practice explaining your approach to process analysis, problem-solving, and driving change.

• Research Vertiv: Gain a thorough understanding of Vertiv's products, markets, strategic priorities, and company culture. Be ready to articulate how your skills and experience align with their mission and values, particularly their focus on Operational Excellence and Innovation.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.