Chief Product Officer

About the RoleWe are hiring a strategic yet grounded leader for the role of Chief Product Officer, responsible for driving the full product turnaround and shaping the future product strategy of an industrial company. Known for its long-standing expertise in architectural cladding systems and glass-fused-to-steel technologies, they are entering a new phase of renewal and modernization under committed new ownership.In this pivotal role, you will hold end-to-end responsibility for the product vision, portfolio management, and the entire product development lifecycle, including product strategy, innovation management, engineering, product design, go-to-market, and lifecycle management. Your mission is to build a future-ready, market-driven product portfolio, set clear priorities, and develop a high-performing product and engineering organization that positions the company for long-term success. The role requires both strategic foresight and operational proximity: you will work closely with customers, production, sales, and engineering, maintain a strong on-site presence, foster transparency, and establish a culture of accountability, collaboration, and excellence across all teams.About the ClientOur client is a respected European brand in enamel-coated architectural panels and glass-fused-to-steel tanks and digestors. Its solutions are valued for their durability, aesthetic quality, and performance in harsh conditions:Architectural Panels – For tunnels, train stations, subways, and building facades, known for fire resistance, low maintenance, and long-term color retention.Storage Tanks – For drinking water, wastewater, agricultural grain, and animal feed storage, offering corrosion resistance and longevity.Biogas Digestors – For renewable energy production from organic waste and agricultural residues, trusted for gas tightness and chemical durability.The brand is now supported by a global industrial group with a successful track record of rebuilding and scaling engineering businesses in both Germany and India. With access to capital, leadership depth, and market access, the new ownership is committed to preserving the brand’s legacy while driving operational modernization.Key ResponsibilitiesDisciplinary and technical management of the design team (10-20 employees)Responsibility for structuring, managing, and prioritizing all design tasks and projectsEnsuring cost-effective design results that meet deadlines and quality standardsAnalysis of technical customer requirements and advice on feasibility and implementationProduct lifecycle managementFurther development of processes, standards, and design guidelinesSupport of sales in proposal stage and close cooperation with manufacturing and clientsSupport in the selection, development, and retention of design talentGradual establishment of a structured R&D department for future in-house developmentsDigital automation focus (configurator/ job server)Reporting directly to CEOCollaboration with COO and CFORequirementsHands-on mentalityLeadership skills to lead change process in designExperience in 3D CAD Systems (best Autodesk)Lean management skills in standardisation & Past-Database managementCostumer orientationFluent in German and English (mandatory)High personal ownership, integrity, and the ability to lead by exampleOffice presence necessaryBenefitsResponsibility for a central, highly qualified design departmentManagement of a highly experienced, well-coordinated design team with a high level of technical expertiseTechnical variety in unique projects from various industriesHigh visibility within the company and direct influence on project successShort decision-making processes and high visibility of the role within the companyCreative freedom in processes and structuresProspective opportunity to establish your own R&D departmentA collegial, solution-oriented working environment