The Development Administration Manager oversees the administrative side of product development, ensuring accurate records, regulatory compliance, and efficient processes. Key duties include managing model specifications, critical path timelines, and TRG portal updates, as well as coordinating product sign-offs and maintaining audit documentation. The role also leads the implementation of DFS code of practice, supports continuous improvement, and ensures effective change management. Working closely with ESG and compliance teams, the manager drives efficiency and cost reduction while leading the Development Administration team.
39 hours per week, based on site, Monday - Friday
What you'll be doing
* Responsible for building and maintaining accurate records of model specification bibles.
* Set up and reintroduce critical path process for new model introduction.
* Manage and update the TRG portal with details relating to new and existing products as necessary.
* Introduction and ownership of DfS code of practice into the development process.
* Introduction & implementation of continuous improvement methodology ensuring that issues raised are dealt with according to code of practice procedure.
* Maintain and control fabric samples required for both fire retardancy and performance testing in line with regulation and DFS company policy.
* Be responsible for maintaining accurate documentation relating to SMETA audit requirements.
* Coordinate new product sign off, by communicating to key personnel dates to attend and preparing documents required for sign off in relation to the new product.
* Take ownership of the design and development element of the change management process ensuring that product changes are documented and communicated to key stakeholders.
Leadership/Training
* Lead the Development Administration function ensuring that all compliance, critical path and processes are fully embedded within the development function.
* Work closely with the ESG and compliance team to ensure that new regulatory requirements are introduced at the point of development in a controlled way,
* Identify and implement process improvements to improve departmental efficiency.
* Reduce airfreight costs for product launch by introduction of critical path process and robust communication plan with all stakeholders.
The role is for you if...
* You hold extensive knowledge of the Product Development process.
* Ability to manage expectation regarding product launch dates.
* Detailed knowledge of legal and compliance testing requirements.
* Ability to lead a team, in a time critical environment with understanding of impacts in a Just in Time business process
* Ability to train and explain in a calm and controlled manor.
* Good IT skills including spreadsheets, documents and Navision
* Minimum 10 years experience leading a design and development function
* Excellent process implementation skills
* Problem solving ability
About DFS
It takes a whole lot of passion to be at the centre of what makes a house feel like home — and that’s just what we do at DFS. We’re the leading sofa retail specialist in the UK, helping people find a comfy seat on their great quality sofas since 1969.
We're a market leader in the UK because of one thing: our people. Our people made us who we are and will drive us into our ambitious future, together. We offer incredible opportunities to get stuck into fun and meaningful work as well as learn new skills — so you can really ‘find your thing’.
DFS Group is proud to be an equal opportunities employer; celebrating diversity and committed to a culture of inclusion and belonging. We extend a warm welcome to everyone, embracing a variety of voices and perspectives. As we continue to work on building a workplace that is representative of the customers we serve and the communities we live and work in, we strongly encourage applications from members of minority and under-represented groups. Across the Group, we want to create an environment where everyone feels at home.
(All roles are subject to satisfactory references and DBS check)
Are you ready to make yourself at DFS?
We want you to really feel at home at DFS, with the support you need to do your best work, as well as a range of great benefits:
* Holiday allowance – the time you need to rest and relax (and the longer you’re with us, the more time you’ll get!)
* Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave to give you the time you need to settle in with your new family member
* Access to a range of high street & online discounts from: Sainsbury’s, ASOS, Currys PC World, IKEA, John Lewis and more.
* Discounted Gym and Cinema memberships to help you unwind
* Progression and Development opportunities to grow your skills
* Salary Competitive DOE + Benefits package
* Frequency Annual
* Contract Type Full Time
* Closing Date 20 June, 2025
* Job Category Manufacturing
* Business Unit Manufacturing
* Location Units 1F1 & 2F1 Derby Road Long Eaton, United Kingdom (Incl. Northern Ireland)
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