Product Line Manager

As the leading global marketplace of optics, imaging, and photonics products, access to Partner Products is crucial to our customers’ success. The Product Engineer, Brand Partners will be an integral part of the Brand Team and assist in the growth of the portfolio of industry-leading brands within the Edmund Optics Marketplace. This role will directly support the commercial success of partner products by executing the tactics identified in the Marketplace Partners Brand Strategy. By combining their technical, marketing and business skills, the Product Engineer, Brand Partners will be critical in ensuring the strategic fit of new branded partner products. This role will work closely with internal Product Line Managers, Merchandising, Product Release & Marketing, as well as external Sales and Channel Managers of assigned brands. Some travel is required. Job Description Responsible for developing, defining and articulating an overall strategy for the specified product lines across all channels of distribution. Strategy must be supported by realistic returns on investment, marketing data, and roadmap. Requires working closely with product development, marketing and engineering. Supports development of corporate technology roadmap. Major focus on analyzing target markets/segments and creating a solid definition of their application needs, translating this information into new products, and positioning these products in the marketplace. Requires working closely with marketing, sales and external experts to gain an in-depth understanding of each market/segment and the competition. Use data-driven insights to make informed decisions regarding product positioning and differentiation. Central decision maker for products within product line. Must be able to direct functional groups without direct reporting authority, including across Divisions. Directly responsible for supplier relations and negotiations on third party products within product line. Produces marketing feasibilities and forecasts for major new product launches and works with project management and design to ensure the timely completion and release. Responsible for product launches with engineering, marketing and sales by coordinating and utilizing all available marketing/sales channels, including publicity, web/catalog introduction, sales force training, etc. Work with Marketplace Division to ensure proper promotion and presentation of products in various media. Responsible for supporting the company’s sales and marketing efforts by attending tradeshows and conferences, visiting with customers, writing industry articles, and providing trainings and seminars. Working with the global sales team to provide estimates on costing and guidance on volume customer pricing. Monitoring inventory and service levels to ensure customer expectations are being met. Work with strategic sourcing to ensure product is being sourced from the proper manufacturing plant. Comply with federal, state, and company policies, procedures, and regulations Qualification Required Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Engineering, Physics, or related technical field; five (5) years experience in product marketing, product development, or project management. To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Skills and Abilities Required High level of personal initiative Strong analytical skills to assess opportunities and risks Product and technology knowledge a must Excellent written and oral communication skills Willingness to work with many groups, across departments, and show strong team spirit Strong leadership skills, with ability to motivate and train people Can manage heavy workload of multiple, concurrent projects and priorities at once Excellent problem solving and creative thinking capabilities Comfortable with all MS Office software Travel (