: New Product Development Manager - Cast Iron Category Location: Chennai
Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced New Product Development Manager to take complete ownership of the Cast Iron cookware category at The Indus Valley. The ideal candidate must have hands-on experience in Cast Iron manufacturing and product development, from market research, supplier development and testing to launch and ongoing product improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
Market Research and Customer Feedback: Conduct category research and analyze customer feedback to identify new Cast Iron cookware opportunities and improve existing products.
Product Launch Planning: Own the Cast Iron product roadmap and lead product development, SKU costing, launch readiness, and cross-functional execution.
Competitive Analysis: Benchmark Cast Iron cookware and define specifications for weight, thickness, casting quality, surface finish, seasoning and product performance. Sample Testing and Procurement: Work with Cast Iron foundries and vendors on casting, moulding, machining and seasoning; oversee sampling, quality testing, approvals and procurement.
Return Reduction Strategies: Analyze customer-initiated returns for Cast Iron SKUs and address rusting, seasoning, defects, damage and other recurring product quality concerns. Customer Insights Gathering: Gather insights through customer calls, home visits, reviews and usage feedback to drive Cast Iron product enhancements and innovation.
Branding and Packaging: Maintain consistent branding for the Cast Iron range and coordinate product presentation and packaging with cross-functional teams.
Packaging Optimization: Improve protective packaging to reduce transit damage, cost and volumetric weight while maintaining product integrity and sustainability.
Qualifications:
Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgy, Materials Science or a related field.
Mandatory hands-on experience in Cast Iron cookware manufacturing, product development or Cast Iron category management; general cookware experience alone is not sufficient.
Strong knowledge of Cast Iron casting, seasoning, surface finishing, product testing and quality standards.
Experience in vendor development, product costing, product launches and quality improvement.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to independently manage the complete Cast Iron category and multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Additional Information: Join us at The Indus Valley and become a part of our mission to innovate, create, and grow. Together, we will continue to redefine the culinary landscape, empowering individuals to embrace healthier cooking habits and live their best lives.
We offer competitive compensation and advantages packages, as well as opportunities for professional growth and development. If you have proven Cast Iron cookware expertise and share our vision for a healthier future, we would love to hear from you!
Innovate, Create and Grow: The Indus Valley Invites You to Join Our Mission Welcome to The Indus Valley, where we revolutionize the very essence of cooking by merging health, safety, and innovation into your kitchen. As a Chennai-based direct-to-consumer venture, we are India's pioneering health cookware brand, backed by substantial venture capital. Trusted by over 10 lakh customers and driven by a team of over 100 passionate individuals, we stand as a beacon of commitment to wellness and vitality.
The Indus Valley is a 100cr brand, with a foundation resting on the belief that everyone deserves access to premium-quality, health-focused cookware. At The Indus Valley, we empower health-conscious individuals in their quest for well-being by meticulously crafting cookware with integrity, using materials and processes that prioritize health, safety and honesty.
Contact:
[email protected]
📌 Manager - New Product Development (Cast Iron) (Chennai)
🏢 The Indus Valley
📍 Chennai