The Opportunity An Australian-based advanced technology company working across defence, law enforcement and government sectors is seeking an experienced Product Manager to lead the transition of innovative technologies from concept and prototype into scalable, market-ready products. This is a newly created role by and for the business, established specifically to strengthen the organisation’s ability to commercialise innovative technologies and scale products effectively. This role reports directly to the Group CEO and will suit a hands-on, technically minded generalist who enjoys operating across engineering, product development and manufacturing in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment. About the Role This role is responsible for driving the transition of innovative technologies from early-stage development into production-ready, commercially viable products. You will own the product journey beyond prototype, focusing on manufacturing readiness, cost control and scalability. Working alongside an in-house engineering team and external manufacturing partners, you will ensure products are designed with clear requirements, robust documentation and a viable production pathway. The position has a broad remit, covering engineering handover, manufacturing coordination and commercial decision-making, rather than traditional backlog or feature-based product management. Key Responsibilities Lead New Product Introduction (NPI) activities from prototype through to pilot and scalable production Translate concepts, MVPs and prototypes into production-ready designs Define and maintain product requirements, manufacturing documentation and technical data packs Drive production readiness, including design maturity, manufacturability and cost optimisation Lead engagement with external manufacturing partners, including supplier selection, coordination and oversight Support manufacturing strategy decisions, including make vs buy and future in-house capability Provide practical guidance to engineering teams on design trade-offs, tolerances and production constraints Ensure alignment between engineering outputs, supply chain capability and commercial objectives About You You are a practical, commercially minded Product Manager who understands complex, integrated systems and how to take them to market. You will likely bring: 5+ years’ experience taking physical products from concept to market Experience working with electronics, mechatronics, sensors, robotics, drones or other complex systems Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, supply chains and contract manufacturing Ability to work confidently with engineers and make informed design and production decisions Experience in building requirements, managing traceability and preparing data packs Does not require formal engineering qualifications, however needs a strong understanding of technical processes Excellent communication skills and the ability to translate between technical and commercial perspectives Comfort working in a fast-paced, high-innovation environment Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required Why This Role Work on high-impact technologies used by government and defence-related customers Direct access to senior leadership and influence over product direction Hands-on role with real ownership from concept through to production Stable, profitable organisation with a hands-on, collaborative culture and long tenure Opportunity to shape how innovative technologies are commercialised at scale How to Apply To learn more or if you would like to have a confidential conversation about this role, please click “Apply” or if you have any questions contact Orrin Huang via email at ohuang@sharpandcarter.com.au Feel free to connect in with me on https://www.linkedin.com/in/orrinhuang/
About the RoleSharp & Carter is recruiting for a senior operational leader for a critical Factory Manager position in Western Australia. This is a high-profile, site-critical role offering the opportunity to lead a tenured manufacturing workforce and take full accountability for the site's operational performance, safety and culture. This is a 24 hour process manufacturing site.The role combines strategic oversight with hands on leadership, allowing you to make a meaningful impact on both people and operational outcomes. The site is in a turnaround phase, so does require a strategic, hands-on leader who can quickly diagnose challenges, deliver early improvements and shape a longer-term operational and cultural plan. You will have 5 direct reports.Key Responsibilities Lead and inspire a tenured manufacturing workforce, driving performance, safety, quality and operational efficiency. Implement initiatives to optimise plant operations and support continuous improvement. Manage budgets and resources effectively, ensuring operational and financial targets are met. Deliver early “quick wins” while developing and executing a structured turnaround strategy for the site. Build a high-performing leadership team and develop future talent Your Experience and Background Previous experience in a Factory Manager or a senior site leadership experience, owning the P&L. We are looking for people from a continuous or process manufacturing type environment. Demonstrated and proven track record in driving operational improvement initiative and turning a site around. Degree qualified (Business or Engineering preferred). Exceptional people leadership skills, capable of engaging and motivating a tenured workforce. Resilience, adaptability and the ability to operate under pressure in complex environments. Why This OpportunityThis role offers a chance to lead a key manufacturing site and make a tangible impact on operational performance and team culture.There is competitive remuneration on offer with a generous 15% short term incentive plan in place bringing the total compensation into $250K-$300K range (inclusive of super and bonuses). How to ApplyThis is a confidential search handled by Sharp & Carter. If you would like to have a confidential conversation about this role, please click “Apply” or if you have any questions contact Orrin Huang via email at ohuang@sharpandcarter.com.au Feel free to connect in with me on https://www.linkedin.com/in/orrinhuang/ and send me a message if that's your preference.
Level 30,
555 Collins St, Melbourne
VIC 3000
+61 3 9616 2600Suite 302
2 Nexus Court, Mulgrave
VIC 3170
+61 3 8544 4000S1, Level 18,
135 King Street, Sydney
NSW 2000
+61 2 8315 8800S48.03, Level 48,
8 Parramatta Sq, 10 Darcy St, Parramatta
NSW 2150
+61 2 8315 8800Level 7,
197 St Georges Tce, Perth
WA 6000
+61 8 6263 9340Level 20,
260 Queen St, Brisbane
QLD 4000
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