ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Prepare, implement and maintain product line strategies and vision for growth; maintain and adjust product line strategy to maximize market share; identify trends affecting product value proposition and product cost; monitor customers & competitors to identify threats and opportunities
- Work with Marking Team in preparing advertising strategies for each major market segment including new product market introduction
- Responsible, in concert with operations and sales, for product or service gross profit plans and forecasting; prepare, track and report on product line key performance indicators
- Work closely with customers to develop and maintain strong business relationships throughout the railroad industry that lead to the development of new product idea generation
- Develop a strong understanding of the customer applications and use of products and services; understand key customer pain points for new product development
- Working with sales, R&D & engineering develop a process and maintain a cadence to effectively research and collect voice of the customer feedback in effort to develop and maintain a pipeline of potential product ideas
- Prepare proposals for viable product enhancements or new product offerings including specifications and financial justification
- Working closely with engineering identify, research, develop and manage testing requirements for each new product or service
- Working closely with R&D lead new product development teams using the stage gate process and actions plans to meet the project goals, costs, and timelines
- Key lead with respect to a new product launch coordinating efforts with R&D, engineering, purchasing, marketing, and operations
- Prepare and update competitive reviews, cross-references, and counter point responses
- Present technical papers and support sales staff in the promotion of the product line
- Other duties as assigned
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Standing, walking, bending and sitting for extended periods are required to perform basic office functions
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds regularly required for photocopying, filing and other record-keeping duties
- Vision must be sufficient for inputting data into a computer
- Keyboarding skills that reduce the risk of carpal tunnel and other office related injuries
- Ability to travel up to 30% both domestically and internationally via ground, air, or rail
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
- General business office/home setting
- Possible on-track presence and exposure to outdoor elements
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a technical field such as engineering is preferred; advanced education in business management is desirable
- Preferred candidates will have a minimum of 5 years of successful product management experience
- Proven project management skills
- Outstanding communication and presentation skills
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Sharp analytical and problem-solving skills
- Creative thinker with a vision
- Ability to work in team environment
- Possess a valid drivers license and meet the Holland Vehicle Fleet Policy
- Must be willing to travel throughout North America up to 30% of the time; must maintain a valid US Passport
- Ability to successfully complete all pre-employment testing required by Holland L.P.