Illinois Tool Works

Brand Manager - Innovation & Product Strategy

Illinois Tool Works • $90K — $120K *
Houston, MN 55943In-Person
Retail & Consumer Goods
5 - 7 years of experience
2 days ago
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or similar field (MBA preferred).
  • 5+ years in brand management, product marketing, or innovation with proven success in new product development.
  • Strong strategic and analytical capabilities to synthesize insights into actionable recommendations.
  • Familiarity with syndicated data sources like Circana or Nielsen and research methods to inform strategies.
  • Solid financial skills to develop P&Ls, business cases, and evaluate innovation opportunities.
  • Track record of leading cross-functional teams and communicating with senior stakeholders.
  • Organizational skills to prioritize multiple complex projects effectively.

Responsibilities

  • Support the Group Brand Manager in crafting the brand's strategic roadmap and identifying growth opportunities.
  • Lead development of the innovation pipeline, including concept development and business case creation.
  • Drive product strategy for the Wipers portfolio, focusing on architecture and lifecycle management.
  • Utilize consumer and category insights to guide innovation and growth initiatives.
  • Collaborate with Sales, Finance, and other departments to advance initiatives to commercialization.
  • Manage the innovation P&L, ensuring effective balancing of investment and profitability.
  • Communicate brand strategy and performance effectively to influence senior leadership.

Benefits

  • High visibility opportunity to influence the flagship brand.
  • Collaborative culture focused on innovation and growth.
  • Opportunity to shape the growth agenda through innovation and strategy.
Full Job Description
Job Description:

Summary:

We are seeking a strategic Brand Manager to lead innovation and product strategy initiatives on ITW's most important brand. This individual will support the Group Brand Manager in shaping the Wipers growth agenda, including short- and long-term innovation pipeline development, portfolio strategy, CBI planning, and long-range planning support.

This role requires a consumer-first, data-driven leader who can identify growth opportunities, translate insights into clear business recommendations, and partner cross-functionally to advance initiatives from early opportunity identification through commercialization planning.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Brand Leadership & Strategy: Support the Group Brand Manager in developing the brand's long-range strategic roadmap, identifying growth opportunities, category white space, and portfolio priorities that align with business objectives.


  • Innovation Pipeline: Lead the development of the short- and long-term innovation pipeline, including opportunity identification, concept development, business case creation, prioritization, and advancement through the stage-gate process.


  • Portfolio & Product Strategy: Lead product strategy across the Wipers portfolio, including portfolio architecture, assortment opportunities, channel-specific needs, and lifecycle management recommendations.


  • Consumer & Category Insights: Leverage consumer research, syndicated data, shopper insights, competitive intelligence, and category trends to identify opportunities for innovation, trade-up, and incremental growth.


  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with Sales, Finance, Supply Chain, R&D, and external agencies to align plans and move initiatives from early opportunity assessment through commercialization planning.


  • P&L Ownership: Manage the innovation P&L, balancing investment, profitability, and revenue growth. Develop financial models and business cases to evaluate innovation opportunities, including revenue, margin, CBI, investment needs, and commercialization risks.


  • Stakeholder Communication: Effectively communicate brand strategy, performance, and future plans to senior leadership, influencing decision-making across the organization.


  • Entrepreneurial Mindset: Thrive in ambiguity with a solutions-driven approach; challenge the status quo and identify opportunities for breakthrough growth. Demonstrate curiosity, ownership, and the ability to create structure around ambiguous opportunities.


Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or related field (MBA preferred).


  • 5+ years of progressive brand management, product marketing, innovation, or product strategy experience, with a strong track record of developing and advancing new product opportunities.


  • Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize consumer insights, category trends, syndicated data, financials, and competitive dynamics into clear growth recommendations.


  • Experience with syndicated data such as Circana, formerly IRI, or Nielsen, as well as qualitative and quantitative research used to build consumer intimacy and inform strategy.


  • Strong financial acumen, including experience developing P&Ls, business cases, revenue/margin assumptions, and innovation investment recommendations.


  • Demonstrated experience aligning and leading cross-functional teams across R&D, Supply Chain, Sales, and Finance; excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present to senior stakeholders and key retail customers.


  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple complex projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.


  • Ability to travel up to 25% of time.


What We Offer:

  • Opportunity to shape the company's flagship brand with high visibility to senior leadership.


  • Dynamic, collaborative environment where innovation and growth are celebrated.


  • Opportunity to influence the future growth agenda for a leading brand through innovation, portfolio strategy, and long-range planning.


Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

This job description should not be construed to contain every function/responsibility that may be required to be performed by an incumbent in this position. Incumbents are required to perform other related functions as assigned.

The position is based in our Houston, TX, offices and must work in that location.

About Illinois Tool Works

ITW is an industrial manufacturing company that specializes in the fields of industrial machinery, engineering, operations, sales, marketing, finance, and accounting. It's in deep-sea oil rigs, aerospace technology, bridges and wind turbines, healthcare, the spaces in which they live and work, the cars they drive, and the mobile devices they rely on. It was founded in 1912 and headquartered in Glenview Nas, Illinois.

Illinois Tool Works Careers

Join the dynamic team at Illinois Tool Works (ITW), a global leader in diversified manufacturing, where innovation and excellence drive us forward. ITW offers unparalleled job opportunities, fostering a culture of growth and leadership in the industry.

Work You’ll Do

At Illinois Tool Works, you will be part of a professional community that thrives on creativity and innovation. Our employees are equipped with the skills needed to succeed and are provided with endless opportunities for professional growth. Engage in work that matters, with projects that transform industries and enhance futures.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a seasoned professional position, ITW offers a range of career paths across various departments. Our team benefits from a supportive and diverse working environment where every member’s contribution is valued.

Innovate and Lead

Join a team where innovation leads to revolutionary solutions in industries worldwide. At ITW, you will work alongside industry experts to develop new ideas and strategies that keep us at the forefront of technological advancements. Your career at ITW will be marked by a continuous journey of growth and leadership.

Develop Your Skills

With ITW’s commitment to professional development and diversity training, you will enhance your skills through targeted training programs and workshops. These opportunities not only boost your career but also ensure you stay competitive in the job market.

Be Part of Our Culture

ITW is dedicated to building a culture that respects and embraces diversity, encourages innovation, and fosters leadership. Our team is our greatest asset, and we believe in providing them with the benefits and resources they need to succeed both professionally and personally.

Networking and Professional Growth

Expand your professional network through ITW’s global presence and collaborative work environment. Engage with professionals across different sectors, gaining insights that can lead to significant career advancements. Our networking events and professional groups help you connect with key industry leaders and peers.

Join Our Team

Search for open positions that match your skills and interests on the ITW Careers page. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to the next level.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest industry trends, company news, and career tips by following our careers blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails, tailored to your preferences and career goals. Explore the opportunities at Illinois Tool Works today and discover how your expertise can help shape the future of our company and the industries we serve. Join us in our mission to achieve excellence through innovation and leadership.
Learn more about Illinois Tool Works
Size
45,000 employees
Market Cap
$68.1 billion
Industry
Manufacturing & Automotive
Net Income
$2.1 billion
Founded
1912
5 Year Trend
+1.2%
Revenue
$12.5 billion
NASDAQ
ITW
* Ladders Estimates

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