Program Manager I - NPD
Newell Brands · Huntersville
Job ID: 18803
Position Title: Program Manager I
Location: Huntersville, NC
Reports to: Sr Manager PMO, NPD
Newell Brands is a leading consumer products company with a portfolio of iconic brands like Graco®, Coleman®, Oster®, Rubbermaid®, Sharpie® and Yankee Candle® - and 24,000 talented teammates around the world. Our culture is built on values in action: Integrity, Teamwork, Passion for Winning, Ownership, and Leadership. We work together to win, grow, and make a real impact—supported by a high-performing, inclusive, and collaborative environment where you can be your best, every day.
The Program Manager I is an intermediate-level PMO professional supporting the Rubbermaid Commercial business. This role independently manages smaller or less complex New Product Development (NPD) projects and assigned workstreams with limited oversight. The Program Manager I supports cross-functional teams through the stage-gate process to develop, commercialize, and launch product solutions that meet established cost, schedule, quality, scope, and budget objectives. This role applies practical project management knowledge, sound judgment, and clear communication to identify risks, resolve issues, and improve project execution.
Responsibilities:
- Independently manages smaller or less complex NPD projects and assigned project workstreams with limited oversight.
- Leads project planning sessions with cross-functional partners to develop standardized timelines, identify key milestones, and support critical path management.
- Uses MS Planner and related project management tools to build, maintain, and monitor project schedules.
- Supports achievement of PMO key performance indicators, including project timing, cost, quality, scope, and budget performance.
- Partners with Brand Marketing, R&D, Supply Chain, Operations, and other functions to clarify project scope, deliverables, and execution plans.
- Facilitates recurring team meetings and communication routines that help drive alignment, accountability, and project execution.
- Identifies, monitors, and escalates project risks and issues; recommends mitigation plans and communicates status to project teams and leadership.
- Explains PMO processes, stage-gate requirements, project expectations, and standard practices to team members and business partners.
- Uses judgment and data analysis to support project decisions, resolve routine project challenges, and identify options for moving work forward.
- Contributes to minor improvements in project management processes, tools, templates, and reporting practices that support team performance.
- Participates in and may help lead post-launch reviews to capture learnings and recommend continuous improvement actions.
- Maintains accurate project documentation, schedules, reports, and records required by the stage-gate development process.
- May provide guidance, training support, or work review for entry-level team members or partners supporting project execution.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree is required, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
- 2+ years of relevant work experience in project management, new product development, operations, supply chain, or a related business function.
- PMP certification preferred.
- Practical knowledge of structured project management methods, including timeline development, critical path tracking, risk management, and issue resolution.
- Working knowledge of project management tools such as MS Planner, Microsoft Project, SharePoint, and related reporting tools.
- Ability to work independently on assigned projects or workstreams while knowing when to escalate risks, decisions, or barriers.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to explain project status, processes, risks, and next steps to cross-functional partners.
- Ability to build constructive working relationships and influence team members at an operational level.
- Logical and creative problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate multiple issues and recommend practical solutions.
- Highly effective organization, planning, follow-up, and documentation skills.
- Familiarity with basic manufacturing processes, production planning, and cross-functional product development activities preferred.
Newell Brands (NASDAQ: NWL) is a leading global consumer goods company with a strong portfolio of well-known brands, including Rubbermaid, Sharpie, Graco, Coleman, Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Yankee Candle, Paper Mate, FoodSaver, Dymo, EXPO, Elmer’s, Oster, NUK, Spontex and Campingaz. We are focused on delighting consumers by lighting up everyday moments. Newell Brands and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers and comply with applicable employment laws. EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled are encouraged to apply.