Product Development Manager

Sheffield

£65,000 – £70,000

Page 1 Recruitment is proud to partner with a pioneering technology company that is reshaping the transport and energy space across Africa. Driven by a net-zero mission, our client delivers practical, scalable energy solutions where they matter most. As the company enters its next phase of growth, they are seeking an experienced Product Development Manager to help turn ambitious ideas into robust, field-ready products. Working closely with the board and CEO, you will be responsible for shaping how complex hardware and software products are designed, built, manufactured, and deployed across Africa.

About the role

This role offers genuine ownership of product delivery. You’ll lead the development of battery systems and solar hubs that form the backbone of our client’s energy distribution network across Africa. These are robust, real-world products designed to perform in demanding environments where reliability is critical.

Working closely with the CEO, you’ll oversee multi-disciplinary programmes spanning mechanical engineering, electronics, firmware, software, and manufacturing partners in China. From early concept through production, deployment, and ongoing field support, you’ll ensure products are delivered on time and perform as intended. If you thrive on bringing structure to complex challenges, balancing multiple priorities, and guiding teams toward tangible outcomes, this will be the perfect opportunity for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Align product development with business strategy, technology roadmaps, and operational realities
• Define program scope, timelines, milestones, and success metrics
• Lead end-to-end delivery across hardware, software, and firmware teams
• Coordinate closely with Chinese OEMs and manufacturing partners to ensure production readiness and quality
• Track progress from early prototypes through production ramp-up
• Implement clear governance, reporting, and stakeholder communication
• Support post-deployment operations and resolve field issues throughout the product lifecycle
• Keep multiple workstreams moving forward across different time zones

About You

• Experienced in managing complex hardware product development programs
• Comfortable working across engineering disciplines and supply chain partners
• Proven ability to take products from development into production and deployment
• Highly organised, proactive, and calm under pressure
• A strong communicator who can align technical teams and senior stakeholders
• Motivated by impact, ownership, and working on products that make a difference

Bonus Points

• Experience working with Chinese manufacturers or contract manufacturing
• Background in battery systems, solar, energy hardware, or IoT products
• Engineering or technical background
• Experience in startup or high-growth environments
• Knowledge of regulatory and certification requirements for energy products

Perks of the role!

• Competitive salary of £65,000 – £70,000, depending on experience
• Equity / stock options as part of a long-term incentive plan
• Opportunity to work closely with senior leadership, including the CEO
• Exposure to international projects with products deployed across Africa
• A collaborative and supportive working environment within a mission-driven organisation
• The chance to play a key role in a growing technology business with real-world impact

Interested in the role? Click Apply Now or contact the team at Page 1 Recruitment on 0114 700 3533.