Associate Product Manager

Job Purpose:

America’s Number 1 name in model trains is looking for another hand on the throttle. The ideal candidate will be passionate about product, possess a practical understanding of railroads and model trains, a creative dreamer and detail-oriented task manager. You’ll be the steward of your own product categories while working with a team of talented project managers, creative artists, engineers, manufacturing partners and more to deliver the magic of Lionel to the next generation of train fans around the world.

The Associate Product Manager is an entry-level project management role responsible for managing one or more of Lionel’s primary marketing category groups with the assistance of the Director of Production. This will include but not limited to product concept, system set-up, creative art review, third-party licensing program management, product testing, inventory management and collaborative work with all departments in bringing your projects to life. This individual will build products / product lines (with help from Management) from existing ideas and help develop new ideas based on their industry analysis, internal feedback, and all available research. They will work with sales, creative, engineering, production, executive, marketing and logistics departments.

Responsibilities:

·       Project Management:

o  Complete initial product worksheet, quote requests and margin analysis forms

o  Proactively monitor/update project tracking spreadsheets/applications to ensure production timelines are met

o  Use Netsuite management software to create, support and track all item records

o  Provide direction to the art group on product art, instruction manuals, packaging artwork and more

o  Provide / compile all required product / packaging content

o  Update and support 3^rd party licensor partners as needed on product including licensor websites and samples

o  Review of product at art, tooling, preproduction and production samples to ensure quality and accuracy

o  Daily communication with China PM team; updating of shipping schedules and ensure on-time delivery of published dates

·       Marketing / Product Planning:

o  Identify trends; utilize market research, and product research to help with product selection

o  Compile requests/suggestions from numerous sources (dealers, customers, tradeshows, conventions, new licensing partners, etc.)

o  Plan for comprehensive product category growth and performance with balanced and timely product and targeted pricing

o  Review / contribute to outbound marketing materials and efforts including print, social media and in-person events

o  Prepare/present semi-annual review presentations for company leaders on past category performance and upcoming new projects

·       Inventory Management:

o  Monitor active item inventory for timely reorder

o  Issue sample orders for licensed product

o  Management of SKU count and target SKU count by category

·       Brand Activation:

o  Represent Lionel at Dealer events, trade shows and corporate outings. Typical travel will be 2-4 weekends/year

o  Present at and lead Dealer trainings

o  Creation of category specific content for use in outbound Mkt. materials.

o  Main point of contact for outside groups (Mainly Sales) based on business segment

·       Other job duties as deemed necessary by management

Skills/Qualifications:

Required

·       1-3 plus years of product management/marketing experience

·       Relatable professional hobby or railroading experience and background knowledge

·       Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University/College or equivalent work experience

·       Proficiency in Microsoft office products

·       Time management, organizational skills, problem solving and resolution skills

·       Copy and technical writing skills

·       Organized, self-disciplined and professional in demeanor

·       Comfortable in a team working environment

·       Able to lift to 30 pounds

·       A passion for ongoing learning and improvement

Preferred

·       NetSuite or similar inventory management software experience

·       Experience working with licensed products (submissions, approvals, testing, etc...)