Company / Location Information
We are one of the world's leading manufacturers of water heating and water treatment technologies in the world. We are a $3.5 billion company with 140+ years history and we employ more than 12,000 individuals globally who pride themselves on providing the world with innovative water technology. We are committed to Continuous Improvement, not just in our factories or processes, but in our people.
Primary Function
As the Product Manager - Components, you will be part of the Product Management team whose primary focus is on managing key components and technologies that integrate with our core products. You will uniquely interact with our NAWT sales channel leaders and each of the platform Product Managers to identify component or technology needs and drive the integration or additions to each product portfolio.
Expectations
Help drive double digit growth across NAWT business units
Deliver consistent product improvement and innovation by pursuing iterative upgrades between large scale new product offerings
Build "best in-class" core component offerings developed with in tandem with primary vendors
Create and manage a roadmap and strategy for component/technology improvements that ties with the core platform roadmaps (POU, POE, Softeners, etc.)
Responsibilities
Research and investigate new or existing component/technologies to drive product innovation
Drive AOSNPD process for component/technology development that provides one or more of the following benefits:
Development of unique and proprietary functionality within our markets
Adds to the Customer Value Proposition for our existing products
Allows A.O. Smith to have full ownership of designs or other intellectual property for key components currently sourced externally
Work with platform Product Managers to integrate new components and technologies into the product lines
Create an intake process/strategy for new ideas or technology improvements
Leverage a committee of representatives from NAWT business units to gain insight into market/business product needs
Lead vetting and prioritizing of new component projects prior to NPD launch
Participate in cost-down/improvement activities representing "Voice of Customer"
Define metrics/KPIs for individual projects
Translate business needs and technical specifications between Sales and Engineering during product development
Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field such as business, engineering, or marketing
Experience working with Operations and Supply Chain functions
Minimum 5+ years of related experiencein product management
Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills to identify market trends, customer needs, and competitive insights
Strong leadership skills integrating independent teams to pursue common objectives
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders
Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, set priorities, and meet deadlines
Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies
We Offer
Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits plans which include medical and dental insurance, company-sponsored life insurance, retirement security savings plan, short- and long-term disability programs and tuition assistance.This role is eligible for a remote work schedule of up to two days remote work per week. New employees are eligible to apply after successfully completing their initial 90 daysof employment and training.
A. O. Smith values employee excellence. In our employment practices, we will not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, disability, or other legally protected status. We operate in a global environment and will strive to create a workplace where men an