Job Purpose

The main function of this position is to develop and implement product line strategies that meet current and future market needs and achieve profitability and growth objectives.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage the product life cycle for assigned products and service parts.  Ensure robust processes are in place for introduction and elimination of part numbers in line with our installed base or sales opportunity. 
• Introduction and management of all assigned products including part data maintenance, interchange research and maintenance, supersession research and maintenance, catalog information research and maintenance, engineering change review and customer supersession / change certifications.
• Product line business assessments, market trends, strategy development, AOP volumes, competitive position, development of product road map and AOP action plans.
• Lead strategic input and direction on product applications and warranty-related issues.
• Oversees managers in developing pricing strategy for new models and features and present product strategies, market analysis, priorities and business plans.
• Acquire key information directly from OEMs, Fleets and Warehouse Distributor contacts and through industry events.
• Prepare business plans and appropriation requests for major product programs. Assist in developing strategic sourcing and manufacturing strategy, based on global product requirements.
• Provide strategic marketing input for manufacturing related appropriations and long-term manufacturing capital plans.
• Define product launch strategies, including timing, forecast volumes, target markets, key customers. Lead the process through involvement with the APQP process (engineering/production/OEM sales) and assure Aftermarket sign-off to new product introduction. Ensure customers are notified of appropriate product changes, coordination of inventory recommendations both in-house and for customer(s).
• Define requirements for product, features, cost and capabilities with Engineering.
• Lead the process for product phase out for assigned product lines through involvement with engineering/production timing, coordination of any inventory management considerations such as last time buys, future sourcing requirements, advice to customer base.
• Define literature, product displays, advertising, press conference content.
• Maintain effective contacts with and coordinate actions with Engineering, Sales, Purchasing, Operations, Quality, Field Service, Marketing and Aftermarket functions.
• Forecasting - Contribute to sales and inventory forecasting through input regarding product launches and phase outs.
• Interface with Supply Chain Management and Corporate Legal Department to establish and negotiate (1) supply and/or development contracts for key products and technologies; (2) marketing agreements and JV partnerships that ensures product exclusivity or advantage.
• Supervise, develop and lead direct reports.

Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• 7+ years of automotive or service parts experience.
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.
• Effective listener and communicator.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office: Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong data management and data analysis skills.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent organizational and follow up skills.
• Demonstrated ability to be proactive and think forward.
• Ability to initiate and complete projects on your own.
• Must have strong time management skills.
• Able to effectively interface with other disciplines in the organization to achieve results.
• Demonstrated ability to drive results.
• Proven excellent customer relationship management skills.
• Ability to multi-task multiple projects and supports multiple managers.