SFR Recruitment Solutions are representing an established cylinder designer and manufacturer, renowned for quality within the locksmith and fenestration sector, who are looking to appoint a Product Development Lead.
This is a senior, hands-on product development role with leadership responsibility — approximately 70% “doing” and 30% leading. It suits someone who wants to remain technically close to the detail while owning the product pipeline and guiding the function.
The Role
You will take ownership of the product development function, shaping the future product range and leading development from concept to launch. This is an internally focused position, building the next generation of products, driving continuous improvement, and managing a small technical team.
Key Responsibilities
You will own and lead:
- Product range strategy and lifecycle (what gets built, refreshed, and retired)
- All active development projects (A–Z) from concept through to market launch
- Continuous improvement backlog (tolerances, pin systems, modular system evolution)
- Supplier engineering and component cost management
- Patent process and strategy, working with external patent attorneys
- Line management of engineer(s) and a product development specialist
- Senior-level external technical representation, including key OEM/B2B discussions and engagement with standards bodies
What We’re Looking For
- Proven track record launching complex mechanical / precision-engineered products end-to-end
- Strong hands-on technical depth — able to review CAD, make tolerance/material decisions, and troubleshoot prototypes
- Background in precision mechanical assemblies and engineered hardware (e.g. safety-critical hardware, automotive components, medical devices, hydraulics, fasteners, or similar)
- Experience managing technical teams (typically 2–7 people)
- Has taken products through certification and/or regulated standards processes
- Comfortable with patents — either a named inventor or experienced working closely with patent counsel
- A strategic thinker who can own a product range, not just execute projects
- Decisive, data-driven, organised, and commercially aware
Interested?
For a confidential discussion or to apply, please contact:
Matthew
SFR Recruitment Solutions
📞 07512 602431
✉️ matthew@sfrrecruitment.co.uk
SFR Recruitment Solutions
📞 07512 602431
✉️ matthew@sfrrecruitment.co.uk
