What are the responsibilities and job description for the Product Manager position at LEM Products?
Company Description
LEM Products, headquartered in West Chester, Ohio, is a market leader in high-quality meat processing equipment and supplies for hunters and home processors. Since its founding in 1991, LEM has grown from humble beginnings to carrying over 700 products, found in more than 600 retail locations across 37 states and Canada. Known for empowering customers in their do-it-yourself meat processing endeavors, the company is committed to delivering exceptional products, expert guidance, and unparalleled customer support. LEM also operates Roots & Harvest, further expanding its impact on home processing enthusiasts. The company values the rewarding nature of home processing as an essential part of the outdoor experience.
About the Role
We are seeking a driven and strategic Product Manager to own and grow key product categories from concept through end-of-life. This role blends product development with category management, ensuring our products meet customer needs, align with brand strategy, and deliver profitable growth.
What You’ll Do
Category Ownership & Strategy
- Own product categories including performance, positioning, and growth strategy
- Analyze market trends, competition, pricing, and assortment gaps
- Build and maintain Good / Better / Best product architecture
- Partner with Sales and Marketing to align with DTC, wholesale, and Amazon channels
- Drive revenue, margin, and market share improvements
Product Lifecycle Management
- Manage full lifecycle: development, launch, optimization, and phase-out
- Lead cross-functional teams to deliver on timelines and objectives
- Define product features and value propositions based on customer insights
- Execute go-to-market strategies including pricing and positioning
New Product Development (NPD)
- Identify opportunities through customer insights and market data
- Support business case development (revenue, margin, investment)
- Utilize StageGate processes to guide development
- Partner with sourcing, engineering, and QA for feasibility and quality
Market & Customer Insights
- Gather and analyze customer feedback and product performance data
- Conduct competitive benchmarking
- Translate unmet needs into product innovation opportunities
Financial & Performance Management
- Own revenue and margin targets
- Develop forecasts, pricing strategies, and financial analysis
- Track KPIs and product/category performance
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Act as the central hub across Product Development, Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Supply Chain
- Align teams on priorities, timelines, and trade-offs
- Ensure clear communication throughout the product lifecycle
What Success Looks Like
- Strong product revenue and margin performance
- Successful new product launches (on-time, on-cost, on-target)
- Category growth and increased market share
- High product adoption and customer satisfaction
What You Bring
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business, M\marketing, or related field with 3–5 years of experience in product development or category management
- In lieu of bachelor's degree, an associate's degree with 5-7 years of equivalent experience.
- Strong understanding of product lifecycle management and stage-gate processes
- Experience with market analysis, pricing, and competitive positioning
- Proven project management and cross-functional leadership skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in consumer goods, durable goods, or outdoor/sporting categories
- Familiarity with DTC, Amazon, and wholesale channels
- Experience with product launches and go-to-market execution
- Exposure to sourcing, manufacturing, or supply chain
Work Environment & Travel
- Onsite role
- Occasional travel for product research or trade shows
Why Join Us?
You’ll have the opportunity to directly impact product strategy, drive innovation, and shape the future of our product portfolio—all while working cross-functionally in a collaborative environment.
Apply today to help build products our customers will love.