Product Development & Commercialization Manager (Machine Tool Spindle)

A leading specialist in high-precision electro-mechanical spindles, this company has been delivering advanced motor spindle solutions and services since the mid-1990s to global markets. Focused on high-speed, reliable spindles for CNC machines and automated systems, it serves demanding industries including robotics, woodworking, metalworking, stone and marble processing, glass, plastics, and composites. The organization excels in both new spindle manufacturing (including automatic tool change, manual tool change, 5-axis bi-rotating heads, boring units, double-ended models, and custom engineer-to-order designs) and comprehensive support services, emphasizing innovation, superior performance (e.g., high rpm/power ratings, precision tolerances, integrated monitoring), rapid delivery, and differentiated solutions that enhance machining efficiency, reduce downtime, and open new application opportunities for customers in precision material removal and automation. Headquartered in Bessemer City, North Carolina (near Charlotte), the company operates as a stable, growing, privately held leader with a collaborative, forward-thinking culture centered on excellence, innovation, and customer success.

As Product Development & Commercialization Manager, you will lead the strategic development, launch, and market success of next-generation industrial spindle products in a dynamic, engineering-driven environment at our Bessemer City, NC facility. Reporting to senior leadership, this high-impact role guides the full product lifecycle—from identifying market needs and competitive gaps to defining specifications, overseeing prototyping and testing, executing go-to-market plans, and driving post-launch growth. You will head a cross-functional team to create differentiated, customer-centric spindle solutions that boost sales, expand market share, increase customer satisfaction, and position the company as a leader in advanced CNC and robotic spindle technologies. This position combines strong technical engineering insight with commercial acumen to translate market opportunities into profitable, innovative products.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead multidisciplinary teams through prototype development, test-site validation, production planning, and scaling processes to ensure on-time, high-quality launches.
• Conduct competitive analysis, evaluate market trends, supplier capabilities, and partnership opportunities to identify differentiation strategies and new product potential.
• Perform in-depth customer needs assessment, market research, and trend analysis to inform product strategy, business cases, ROI projections, margin targets, and revenue forecasts.
• Develop and execute comprehensive go-to-market strategies, including technical requirements definition, product positioning, pricing, messaging, and launch plans tailored to industry segments.
• Oversee the entire product lifecycle: from initial concept and market research through design validation, testing, manufacturing readiness, launch, and ongoing support/iteration.
• Translate high-level strategies into actionable engineering and supply chain requirements, coordinating with internal teams and external partners to meet performance, cost, and timeline goals.
• Manage resources, global suppliers, OEMs, machine builders, and system integrators to optimize supply chain, assembly schedules, and rapid customer delivery.
• Apply lean manufacturing principles to streamline development processes, enhance product quality, reduce time-to-market, and control costs.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, production, marketing, and sales teams to align on priorities, timelines, and deliverables.
• Partner with marketing and sales on product positioning, messaging, customer data collection for social proof/case studies, pre-sales technical support, rollout execution, and ongoing market penetration efforts.
• Drive continuous innovation by identifying new product opportunities, refining existing lines, and supporting emerging applications in automation and robotics.

Qualifications:

• Proven track record in product development and commercialization within industrial machinery, machining, automation, robotics, or precision equipment sectors, with successful launches of engineered B2B products.
• Strong experience managing the full product lifecycle in a manufacturing or engineering environment, including market research, design/prototyping, testing, launch, and post-market optimization.
• Demonstrated leadership in directing cross-functional teams (engineering, supply chain, marketing, sales) to deliver results in fast-paced, technical settings.
• Solid understanding of precision machining, material removal processes, electro-mechanical systems (motors, bearings, sensors), component sourcing, international vendor management, and product assembly.
• Proficiency in CAD design software, prototyping methods, testing protocols, and lean/continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent strategic thinking with skills in business case development, ROI analysis, competitive positioning, and revenue/margin planning.
• Outstanding communication abilities—including writing, presentation, public speaking, and stakeholder influence—across technical and commercial audiences.
• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, materials science, or a closely related field; advanced degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• Passion for innovation, problem-solving, robotic/automation technologies, and delivering customer value in high-precision industries.
• Ability to thrive in a hands-on, collaborative environment at our Bessemer City, NC location.

Compensation and Benefits:

The position offers a competitive base salary in the range of $105,000 - $120,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. As a key member of the leadership team, you will also participate in a management incentive plan tied to company growth, product success, and profitability. The comprehensive benefits package includes health insurance, wellness programs, and additional perks supporting work-life balance. This role provides substantial opportunities for career advancement, increased responsibility, and professional development in a forward-thinking, collaborative culture focused on pioneering spindle technologies, innovation, excellence, and customer success while working on cutting-edge projects in a respected leader within the precision machining and automation space.