What are the responsibilities and job description for the Channel Strategy Manager position at Air Lift Company?
Channel Strategy Manager
Air Lift, a third-generation family-owned company, was founded in 1949 in Lansing, Michigan. Air Lift supplies the automotive aftermarket with load assist products and performance suspensions for show and track. Our goal is to consistently provide products and services that meet and exceed customers’ requirements and expectations. We do this by recruiting top talent and retaining them through our commitment to professional development and preservation of our culture.
Job Summary
As the Channel Manager for Air Lift Company, you will own channel definition, customer alignment, pricing discipline, and partner programs that drive profitable growth. You are responsible for the channel strategy across distribution, retail, and consumer channels, including administration of the Unilateral Pricing Policy (UPP) and the programs that keep our partners aligned and growing. This role is for you if you thrive on building structured, profitable go-to-market channels.
What you'll do:
- Own and execute the channel strategy, defining expectations and value proposition for each channel Air Lift serves.
- Administer the Unilateral Pricing Policy (UPP) program, including monitoring, enforcement actions, and policy communication.
- Conduct market and competitive pricing analysis to inform pricing strategy, promotional planning, and margin management.
- Develop and manage channel programs, including promotions, co-op, incentives, and merchandising initiatives that drive sell-through.
- Align customers to the appropriate channel structure, resolving conflicts and ensuring consistent policy application across accounts.
- Manage point of purchase materials across channels, ensuring accurate, compelling product presentation in-store.
- Partner with sales leadership to evaluate channel expansion opportunities.
What you'll bring:
- Experience in the automotive aftermarket is preferred.
- Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, economics, or a related field.
- 5 years' progressive experience in channel management, category management, or merchandising.
- Working knowledge of pricing policy administration (UPP/MAP).
- Advanced Excel proficiency, including pivot tables, macros, and charts.
- Solid knowledge of productivity tools including the Microsoft 365 Suite.
- Must be fluent in English, additional language skills appreciated.
What we offer:
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
- Generous 401(k) with up to 8% company matching
- A supportive and inclusive company culture that prioritizes work/life balance
- Professional development to help grow your career
- Paid time off and paid holidays