Summary

The Product Manager oversees the commercialization/execution of new and test products from concept through to launch. They act as a liaison among all departments, including Marketing, R&D, Supply Chain, and Operations, to ensure test products and new product launches are completed on time and within budget. This role is pivotal to driving cross-functional collaboration and ensuring the successful execution of new and test product initiatives. This position encompasses market analysis and strategic planning to drive growth and meet consumer demands within our industry.

Essential Functions

o Act as the primary liaison between all departments involved in the product development and launch process.

o Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure successful product launches, tests, and promotions.

o Work in partnership with R&D and Marketing to deliver against the innovation vision and articulation of key strategies within our priority areas, ultimately converting that vision into a pipeline of compelling concepts and products.

o Gather market research to identify trends, consumer preferences, and competitive landscape in the frozen dessert industry. Use data-driven insights to make informed product decisions.

o Support planning, organizing, and driving all aspects of innovation projects from a product manager perspective, ensuring engagement, commitment, and risk management of the project against the defined objectives.

o Coordinate with R&D, Supply Chain, and Operations departments to ensure products are developed and launched to specification, on time, and within budget.

o Develop and manage project timelines and deliverables, track progress, and resolve issues to ensure key milestones and objectives are achieved.

o Develop product positioning and messaging that differentiates Jeremiah’s Italian Ice across primary market segments.

o Plan and execute successful product launches and tests, including defining pricing strategies, and marketing campaigns.

o Continuously monitor and analyze product performance, sales data, and customer feedback.

Qualifications

Experience and Education

Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field (MBA preferred).

Minimum of 5 years of experience in product management, marketing, or a related role in the food industry, with a preference for experience in the ice cream, frozen dessert, or packaged goods sector.

Demonstrated success working with cross-functional teams and driving product development initiatives.

Strong understanding of customer needs and market dynamics in the food industry.

Highly proficient in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Skills

Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.

Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Exceptional project management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple projects and priorities.

Self-motivated with an innovative, can-do spirit; always ready to lead and to learn.

Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and large group situations.

Physical Demands

Ability to move throughout an office space and store (standing, walking, kneeling, and bending) for extended periods of time.

Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.

Ability to make repeating movements of the arms, hands, and wrists.

Ability to express or exchange ideas verbally and perceive sound by ear.

Manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and ability to work with hand above shoulders.

Ability to occasionally, regularly, and frequently move objects (lift, push, pull, balance, carry) up to 50 pounds.

Ability to turn or twist body parts in a circular motion.

Ability to tolerate exposure to heat, cold, chemicals, and loud/noisy environments.

Ability to travel via automobile, plane, or any other form of transportation for long periods of time.