Position Overview:The Product Manager plays a pivotal role in DMA's Product Management team, responsible for overseeing assigned product lines throughout the entire product lifecycle. This includes gathering customer and market requirements, defining product objectives, and collaborating closely with manufacturing partners, sales, and marketing teams to deliver competitive, high-quality products. The Product Manager serves as a subject matter expert for their products and competitors, ensuring alignment with company goals for revenue growth and customer satisfaction.
This role involves strategic planning, product research, pricing recommendations, quality improvement initiatives, and coordination of product launches. The Product Manager will also lead cross-functional communication and contribute to continuous product and process improvement.
Key Responsibilities:1. Product Strategy & Market Research- Develop and present comprehensive annual product plans incorporating market analysis, competitive assessments, strategic goals, and portfolio actions.
- Conduct ongoing research to understand customer requirements, pricing trends, and competitor activity.
- Identify opportunities for new product introductions or enhancements based on market needs.
2. Product Lifecycle Management- Manage product lifecycle from concept to launch and post-launch review.
- Coordinate with factories to resolve quality issues, reduce costs, and implement value improvements.
- Facilitate the setup of new parts with catalog and supply chain teams.
3. Sales & Marketing Collaboration- Develop and deliver training and sales tools to support product knowledge across sales and marketing teams.
- Assist in creating marketing materials, product displays, and trade show presentations.
- Provide technical support for customer proposals and promotional campaigns.
4. Cross-Functional Communication & Reporting- Maintain clear, consistent communication with stakeholders regarding project status, sales results, and product performance.
- Generate special reports and financial analyses to guide management decisions.
5. Team Leadership- Supervise and mentor Assistant Product Managers and provide ongoing coaching and development.
6. Quality and Process Improvement- Partner with Quality and Warranty teams to analyze product issues and implement corrective actions.
- Lead initiatives to enhance product quality, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.
7. Documentation & Compliance- Create and maintain accurate product specifications, standard operating procedures, and related documentation.
- Ensure adherence to company policies and regulatory requirements.
8. Additional Responsibilities- Perform all other duties as assigned.
Reporting Structure:- Reports directly to the Director of Global Product Management.
- This position has no direct reports.
Requirements
Key Requirements:- Experience: Minimum of 5 years in product management or related roles, preferably in the automotive or manufacturing sectors. Proven ability to manage product lines and deliver results.
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Automotive Engineering, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Skills: Strong analytical and project management skills required. Excellent verbal and written communication abilities required. Ability to train and influence cross-functional teams. High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access) and Google tools. Experience with product lifecycle management tools and automotive catalog systems (e.g., AllData) is a plus.
- Knowledge: Solid understanding of automotive parts, manufacturing processes, and market dynamics. Familiarity with pricing strategies, competitive analysis, and product development lifecycle. Strong customer service orientation and negotiation skills.
- Technology: Must be proficient with basic computer functions including email, Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook), and able to learn and navigate warehouse management or order tracking systems.
Physical Requirements:This role primarily involves office work with occasional visits to manufacturing facilities and trade shows.
- Mobility: Ability to move between office, manufacturing, and event environments as needed.
- Sitting: Prolonged periods of sitting while working at a computer.
- Standing and Walking: Occasional standing and walking during site visits and events.
- Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds occasionally (e.g., product samples, marketing materials).
- Vision and Hearing: Adequate visual and auditory acuity to review documents, participate in meetings, and communicate effectively.
- Work Environment: Exposure to typical office, manufacturing, and event settings including moderate noise levels and use of equipment.
Travel Requirements:Up to 10% travel for customer meetings and industry events.
FLSA Classification: Exempt
