James Pflueger

Building NexConnAI, an early-stage enterprise execution platform focused on helping organizations understand how work actually executes across systems, teams, and decisions. NexConnAI is being developed around a canonical execution model, cross-system execution signals, and confidence-weighted visibility into reported vs. observed execution state. Current focus: • Defining the execution model, ontology, and core use cases • Developing the initial MVP architecture • Connecting with technical co-founder candidates • Engaging enterprise operators and potential design partners • Validating the problem through lived operator experience and early market conversations

• Spearheaded program management for connected-product initiatives, enhancing collaboration among hardware, firmware, and software teams. • Established governance tools and dashboards, significantly improving program transparency and execution consistency. • Successfully implemented Smartsheet and Resource Manager across a 500+ person organization, streamlining processes and allowing leadership to manage resources across the organization Better.

• Directed the full lifecycle of new product development (NPD) across hardware, firmware, and mobile applications. • Led Agile and Waterfall methodologies to ensure timely program execution aligned with manufacturing schedules. • Collaborated with contract manufacturers to address supply chain challenges, achieving cost and delivery targets.

• Led the development of a hybrid IoT process, merging Agile software and waterfall hardware teams for a $10M+ portfolio. • Enhanced delivery consistency by implementing Agile ceremonies across cross-functional teams. • Collaborated with executives on stage-gate readiness reviews and risk mitigation strategies.

• Managed over $5M in OEM programs in Marine & Power Equipment, overseeing hardware, software, validation, and manufacturing. • Served as the primary customer interface, addressing quality, delivery, and lifecycle concerns effectively. • Drove programs from RFQ through SOP under APQP, ensuring full KPI tracking and change control for optimal performance.

• Directed $10M+ OEM programs for leading electronics brands, ensuring seamless transition from concept to production. • Established a robust PMO structure, enhancing project management capabilities through training and standardized processes. • Managed the installation of advanced nanocoating production lines in overseas factories, optimizing operational efficiency.

• Managed OEM New Product Development (NPD) programs across medical, industrial, and consumer sectors, ensuring timely delivery. • Ensured compliance with UL, CE, FDA, and ISO 13485 standards, enhancing product reliability and safety. • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, resulting in a 20% reduction in project timelines.

• Managed a high-end Lithium-ion battery portfolio for North America, overseeing programs from concept to launch. • Directed project management and supplier negotiations, aligning customer needs with engineering teams in Japan and U.S. operations. • Cultivated relationships with major OEM customers, driving new business development and market research for consumer and industrial markets.

• Managed the development of automotive accessories for North American markets, ensuring compliance with Toyota’s quality standards. • Collaborated with global vendors to assess manufacturing capabilities, leading to successful supplier selection and qualification. • Supported new product introductions by aligning market needs with production part approval processes, enhancing operational efficiency.

• Drove customer development and industry expansion for Lithium-ion batteries, securing major accounts like Motorola and Apple. • Collaborated with engineering to launch GS-Melcotec’s first custom cell size, enhancing product capabilities. • Led a cross-functional team to align customer needs with technical specifications, optimizing production capacity.