Product Manager

Chicago, IL

Product Manager

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Product Manager, in either Elgin, Illinois, USA, Chicago, Indianapolis , Saint Louis, MI, US

This will be a hybrid role with a minimum of 2 days in the office.  Travel will be required up to 25% of the time. 

Role Overview:

This position will work closely with the Marketing, Sales, and Supply Chain departments to develop and enhance our product lines through product line development, product line enhancement, supplier negotiations, supplier relationships, product training, offering, pricing, marketing programs and other product presentations. This position will report directly to the Sr. Director of Product Management.

Responsibilities:

• Product management for one of our existing product categories, including line and program development, researching product offering opportunities, factory correspondence, product testing, pricing, communication strategy, etc. 
• Manage the product life cycle process.
• Support the development & implementation of planning strategies that grow profit and volume based on category direction, new product development, product entry into new market segments, pricing, and merchandising.
• Development of presentations for the new products introduced and rolling out these training programs by conducting training sessions.
• Work in conjunction with the marketing team, to determine placement, product introduction and promotion strategy.
• Develop clear product “core” messaging and provide clear value distinction in the marketplace.
• Develop and mentor direct reports through on-boarding, open communication, training and development opportunities and performance management processes.
• Understand, define, and communicate the competitive landscape for the product category, define target markets and determine key market messages.
• Develop product specifications, packaging ideas and technical information for the graphics department.
• Combine creativity and out-of-the box thinking in marketing and introducing new products to the market, seasonal promotions, advertising opportunities, new product launches etc.
• Fielding troubleshooting calls from users and distributors, product and safety training development and delivery.
• Provide certification and re-certification training.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in either tools, equipment, or a safety product line.
• Product marketing and promotions experience.
• Project management experience.
• Excellent presentation skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships.
• Ability to understand, work with, and relay technical product specifications.
• Highly organized and detail oriented.
• Strong research, analytical and problem-solving ability.
• Excellent computer skills with an emphasis on MS Office – particularly Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.
• Works well in a fast-paced and changing environment.

We offer a competitive compensation and benefit package and are committed to providing our employees with work-life balance.

About Us:

We have  proven track record of success as a one-source supplier. Known to Canadian wholesale and independent distributors for delivering high-quality tools, equipment, and safety products. We strive to be the best-in-class supplier of professional tools and safety equipment to workers. This same commitment extends into the United States.