Position Overview:
- Location: Daphne, AL
- Reports To: Director of Product Management
- Division: Undercar Marketing and Product Management
Position Summary:
The Product Manager is responsible for developing the strategy and direction of assigned product lines, ensuring that they drive both current and future sales and profitability. This role demands a deep understanding of the automotive aftermarket industry, including market trends, technology advancements, and customer needs. Experience in the aftermarket automotive sector is essential for success in this role, as it provides the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of the market and maximize product performance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute strategies for the assigned product lines to surpass market expectations and meet business objectives.
- Regularly evaluate competitive positioning in the market, providing actionable insights and recommendations for improvement.
- Create detailed product roadmaps and develop strategies to address emerging aftermarket technologies influenced by OEM developments.
- Conduct thorough industry and market research to identify new product opportunities, ensuring optimal product availability and profitability.
- Utilize the New Product Launch Process to assess new products and part numbers, considering market demand, pricing, and competitive analysis to maximize revenue.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Sales, Category Management) to manage the product lifecycle, from market introduction through to end-of-life stages.
- Work closely with engineering teams to design and deliver differentiated products that strengthen market positioning.
- Ensure consistency and accuracy in competitive part number interchanges.
- Interact with various teams (Sales, Pricing, Engineering, Customer Service) to gather and disseminate relevant product and market data.
- Contribute to the creation of profitable business cases for customer opportunities and help define strategies to win new business.
- Refine demand forecasting processes and ensure accurate assessments of business impacts.
- Support the ERP system and marketing teams with key product-related insights.
Additional Responsibilities:
- Participate in trade shows and update customer data for service and product knowledge.
- Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that aligns with organizational goals.
- Proactively solve problems by identifying creative solutions based on emerging technologies.
- 15% travel (including factory visits, trade shows, and support for commercial teams).
Work Environment:
The office environment is designed to foster productivity, with standing desk options and monthly team-building events. Although most work will be conducted in an office, some exposure to manufacturing conditions (including dust, fumes, noise, and temperature variations) may occur. All employees are required to follow safety protocols and wear personal protective equipment when in designated areas.
Physical Demands:
The role requires the ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds. These physical demands are essential for carrying out the primary functions of the job.
Additional Details:
- Location: Daphne, AL
- Benefits: Medical, Vision, Dental, Retirement Planning, and additional optional benefits
- Vacation: Two weeks paid time off
- Relocation: Available
Minimum Qualifications:
- Education: A Bachelor's degree in a technical, marketing, or business-related field.
- Experience:
- At least 5 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket industry is required. This experience is critical for understanding the complexities of aftermarket product management and driving effective strategies.
- Alternatively, 5+ years of product management experience in consumer goods may be considered.
- Experience in managing B2B relationships and working with B2B buyers.
- Proficiency in MS Office 365 and other general computer applications.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong attention to detail.
- A thorough understanding of automotive aftermarket fundamentals, including customer insights, buying behaviors, and industry trends.
Preferred Experience and Skills:
- Ability to read engineering blueprints and BOMs, with exposure to materials management in a manufacturing environment.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.
- Proven track record of leading projects and teams, particularly in complex, cross-functional environments.
- Strong analytical abilities to assess and make informed decisions based on market data, costs, and benefits.
- A problem-solver with creative thinking and the ability to overcome obstacles using innovative strategies.
