Product Development Manager

$100,000 - $115,000/Yr

Totaltalent Search Group - Romeoville, IL

Full-time - Mid Level

Romeoville, IL

About the position

The Product Development Manager is responsible for overseeing the entire product development process from concept to commercialization. This role involves evaluating product submissions, managing project prioritization, coordinating with suppliers and agencies, and ensuring product profitability. The manager will also handle quality control, pricing strategies, and compliance with government regulations while maintaining effective communication with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate product submissions from inventors.
• Prioritize new projects and manage stage gate progression from concept through commercialization.
• Coordinate packaging, testing, certifications, and merchandising deployment.
• Work with attorneys regarding patents and infringement.
• Maintain market and competitive information for the assigned product category.
• Manage communication with suppliers, including Asian suppliers and agencies.
• Ensure profitability to Contribution Margin for the respective product category.
• Involve in forecasting with Sales and Operations.
• Lead communication of product lines to Sales, Customers, Suppliers, and internally.
• Develop and monitor quality control and assurance processes with operations.
• Support Operations in developing a strong supplier base for components and finished goods.
• Responsible for pricing of products within assigned categories and ensure accuracy of duties/tariffs.
• Review new government legislation impacting product development.
• Maintain a library of certifications required to meet government regulations.
• Oversee product testing and performance/safety requirements.

Requirements

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong presentation and negotiation skills.
• Proficient in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and MS Project.
• Technical orientation with an interest in innovation and quality improvement.
• Basic understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, especially metal.
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Hands-on approach with willingness to engage on jobsites.
• Results-oriented with a focus on analysis and countermeasures.
• High ethical standards with integrity and respect for others.
• Entrepreneurial spirit with a focus on new business opportunities.
• Strong goal orientation with the ability to achieve objectives.
• Ability to travel approximately 25% of the time, including international travel to Asia.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree (MBA preferred).
• 2+ years of relevant product development experience.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance