Associate Product Manager - Bilingual Japanese & English

$72,000 - $86,000/Yr

Misumi USA - Los Angeles, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Los Angeles, CA

Wholesale Trade Agents and Brokers

About the position

The Associate Product Manager is responsible for developing and executing product category strategies and tactics, including market and business analysis, product and supplier development, pricing, stocking, sales, costs, marketing initiatives, service improvements, product merchandising, and customer support. This role offers significant professional development opportunities with training and mentoring, and requires fluency in Japanese to interact effectively with global headquarters and suppliers in Japan.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute product category strategies and tactics.
• Manage category ownership of the product line plan including new product/supplier selection, procurement, pricing, launch, and promotion.
• Provide product expertise and assistance to internal and external customers.
• Analyze and report on key financial metrics and develop product, pricing, and promotion strategies.
• Onboard and collaborate with suppliers to ensure optimal performance standards.
• Conduct primary qualitative and quantitative end-user research in partnership with sales, engineering, and product management teams.
• Facilitate the development of detailed scopes for individual projects and ensure timely completion.

Requirements

• Bilingual in Japanese and English.
• 2+ years of project and product management experience with manufacturing/tangible products.
• Experience with product life-cycle management.
• Strong business acumen and motivation to achieve results.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
• Strong skills in communication, conflict management, decision-making, and data analysis.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, robotics, automation, electrical, or industrial engineering, business, or economics; an MBA is a big plus.
• Knowledge of Fastener and Measuring Tool/Hand tool product category.
• Knowledge of web page development and digital marketing.
• Track record of growth results in managing a product portfolio.
• Leadership experience including leading a cross-functional/international project.
• Experience in an international environment.

Benefits

• Relocation assistance
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Opportunities for advancement