Product Manager - Shelton, CT

The Product Manager is responsible for the overall product strategy, business leadership and capacity plans for the assigned product lines to meet sales, profit and other financial objectives. Identifies product extensions, changes and improvements for existing products, and provides guidance in the innovation, definition, development and introduction of new products. Recommends high level strategies and advises management of marketplace trends affecting market strategies. In conjunction with Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, Sales, Management develops business plans for product lines which will meet financial performance and business objectives.

• Provides leadership for assigned product lines by establishing annual marketing plans, product development program management, capacity forecasts and financial operating plans.

• Is recognized as the primary point of contact and subject matter expert for assigned product lines, providing support and education for all stake holders including field sales, channel partners and customers.

• Maintains close working relationships with Sales, distributor partners and customers to identify new opportunities and to grow sales of existing products.
• Monitors sales and field reports, pricing levels, competition and proposals pertaining to responsible product area.
• Monitors manufacturing costs versus standards and/or budgets and forecasts, giving recommendations for cost improvements.
• Forecasts and communicates major changes in capacity requirements so Operations can plan accordingly.
• Analyzes product life cycles and recommends redesign or improvement of existing products to increase sales and/or profitability.
• Stays abreast of technological advances to develop a competitive strategy to enhance market position, new applications for products, and modifications to improve flexibility and customer appeal. Ability to learn about assigned technology areas to understand and communicate program needs.
• Establishes effective communication channels and working relationships at all levels to provide pertinent, timely and accurate information and ensure effective performance of related product line functions. Has experience in making presentations to all levels of the organization successfully communicating complex issues and business cases.

• Responsible for keeping management informed of the progress, status and direction of assigned product lines and projects, including overall trends in the marketplace in order to develop product strategies.

• Develops and implements a marketing strategy for assigned product lines that includes promotions, marketing collateral, merchandising and alternate channels to market.
• Supports sales efforts by participating in a variety of training events, trade shows, market development programs and industry association committees.
• Develops, tracks and drives new product development, redesign and product modification efforts by managing cross functionally activities through the organization and communicates requirements and issues effectively.

• Actively participates in sales and operations planning. Uses financial forecasts as the basis for developing demand, inventory and production plans.

This is a high visibility position that will interface with all levels within the organization. The individual must be highly analytical, organized, tactically oriented and possess excellent communication and leadership skills. The ideal candidate will meet these requirements:

Bachelor Degree in Engineering General, Marketing or Business

At least 5 years of experience required, preferrably in the Electrical, Construction or Consumer Products Industry

Direct Experience gathering Voice Of Customer (VOC) and market research required

Demonstrated experience leading successful teams through influencing skills

Strong verbal and written communication required. Should be comfortable presenting to large audiences and customers.

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