Responsible for leading the development of "new products" by partnering with multifunctional teams, researching potential products and identifying enhancements to current products. Manages the process from product development to product launch, ensuring execution is in line with project plans. "New Products" are defined as those products conceptually new to Hoshizaki America; or existing products "modified/altered" for specific customers to create a new revenue source/stream.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Primary/major job responsibilities that will be performed by this job.
Leads, plans and tracks all phases of the product life cycle, from inception through introduction into the marketplace for "new products".
Helps to formulate the business case to develop and implement products.
Conducts competitive analysis of products and models offered by other manufacturers. Determines the organizations unique value proposition for each new product offering.
Evaluates new product ideas to determine their potential to address customer needs and to achieve goals in revenue growth and market share.
Analyzes the feasibility of design ideas, based on factors such as appearance, safety, function, serviceability, budget, production costs/methods and market characteristics.
Establishes product specifications, and coordinates with various functions, including engineering, manufacturing, marketing and sales, to ensure successful product development and implementation.
Participates in analytical, experimental, investigative and other fact-finding work in support of product development.
Responsible for maintaining knowledge of new trends and products in the appropriate markets.
May conduct focus-group research and use market research data to support sales teams and address customer issues and field quality concerns.
Conducts market analysis/research within generally recognized "foodservice" avenues to generate new product ideas and new business (i.e. distributors, distribution center account managers, dealers and chain account end users).
Conducts market analysis/research outside generally recognized "foodservice" avenues to generate new product ideas and new business (i.e. convenience stores, supermarkets, health care).
Develops sales training presentations for: District Managers, DC Account Managers, Customer Service Reps and Customer factory tours for internal and external customers.
Works with Marketing to provide complete comprehensive customer materials such as sales equipment brochure sheets/specifications and price lists.
EDUCATION EXPERIENCE
The minimum education and experience required to successfully perform the essential functions. Preferred requirements can also be included in this section.
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Marketing or related field and a minimum of six years of product management experience. Previous experience in the foodservice equipment industry managing the product development lifecycle.
KNOWLEDGE SKILLS
Skills, abilities, or special licenses needed to perform the job (software, professional certifications, drivers' license, languages, etc.)
Demonstrated track record of managing product development projects to completion
Experience in foodservice equipment industry
Experience leading/facilitating a cross-functional team
Capable of taking on and delivering project deliverables with limited guidance from senior management
Ability to anticipate problems and issues, and effectively resolve them
Understand the impact of new projects on other areas and has the ability to evaluative availability of resources
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Strong analytical and presentation skillsProficient in Microsoft Office
DECISION MAKING
Describe the level of decision making and extent that this job can structure objectives/activities and affect outcomes.
Solves complex problems; takes a new perspective using existing solutions. Typically resolves complex problems or problems where precedent may not exist. Works independently; receives minimal guidance. Uses best practices and knowledge of internal or external business issues to improve products/services or processes.
DIRECT REPORTS
YES NO
If yes, please list the job titles and corresponding number of employees
N/A
PHYSCIAL REQUIREMENTS
Manufacturing:
Works predominantly on the manufacturing floor. May be exposed to heat, electrical and mechanical hazards, noise, solvents, dust, dirt, fumes, contaminants, cold, noise, vibration, etc.
Climbing, stooping, kneeling, lifting, pulling, pushing and ability to move material weighing up to 40 lbs
Ability to perform basic preventive maintenance tasks on tools and equipment
Ability to use of hand tools, power tools, gas torches and measuring instruments
Ability to read blueprints, technical manuals and use measuring equipment
Requires standing for prolonged periods of time
Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
Must be able to walk and use hands
Ability to read, write, listen and speak
Non-Manufacturing:
Typically work is in an office environment where the noise level is low to moderate
Requires standing and/or sitting for prolonged periods of time
Ability to lift boxes/materials weighing up to 10 lbs
Requires telephone work and/or computer work, as well as interactions with other employees and customers
