Product Manager - Ceramics

Manpower SA; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 60 000 - 100 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Product Manager specializing in ceramics. In this pivotal role, you will collaborate with senior leaders to drive product strategy, manage sales performance, and lead the introduction of innovative products. Your expertise will guide market analysis, support the sales team, and ensure technical training for stakeholders. This opportunity offers a chance to make a significant impact in a growing sector, working closely with cross-functional teams to achieve excellence in product management and customer satisfaction. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for product development, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of management experience in the construction industry.
• Postgraduate degree in relevant engineering field.

Responsibilities

• Prepare market studies and analyze market potential.
• Manage sales performance and support the sales force.
• Lead product introductions and coordinate with R&D.

Skills

Influencing Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Communication Skills

Decision-Making

CRM Proficiency

Education

Postgraduate Degree in Civil Engineering

Postgraduate Degree in Chemical Engineering

Postgraduate Degree in Structural Engineering

Job description

Our client based in Germiston is seeking a Product Manager - Ceramics to join their team. The ideal candidate will collaborate with the General Manager and Head of Sales and Business Development to set the strategy for the growth and development of the product line, including defining product positioning, offers, and pricing in line with market expectations.

Responsibilities:

1. Prepare and update market studies, researching market intelligence through surveys, and inform management of market changes affecting performance.
2. Analyze market potential and cooperate with sales to estimate potential sales and activate distribution channels.
3. Manage and support the sales force, participate in customer visits, promote products, identify solutions, and conduct training on product applications.
4. Review sales results periodically to achieve targets.
5. Oversee product sales performance and margins in collaboration with the Distribution Manager.
6. Lead the introduction of new products, including launching strategies, product testing with R&D, and developing technical literature with Marketing.
7. Collaborate with R&D for developing new products and verifying product parameters during testing.
8. Coordinate with Operational Marketing, Quality Systems, HSE, and Technical Assistance for technical datasheets, packaging, labeling, and catalogues.
9. Manage technical training related to the product line in coordination with the Technical Assistance Department.
10. Support the preparation of technical texts and references for product applications.
11. Develop and expand a network of sector specialists such as opinion leaders and academics.
12. Handle claims following procedures, visiting sites with sales staff and informing relevant departments.
13. Report regularly and inform headquarters of changes, working closely with the Product Management Department for guidelines.
14. Support the sales and specifications departments with technical support and documentation.
15. Provide progress reports during management meetings.
16. Maintain up-to-date CRM data with all activities.
17. Deliver CPD training to architects, engineers, and stakeholders, and conduct external training and product demonstrations at expos and seminars.
18. Assist in creating and facilitating marketing events for the product line.
19. Travel to regional sites to provide product support as needed.

Requirements:

• Ability to influence in a group environment with high integrity and honesty.
• Postgraduate degree in Civil, Chemical, or Structural Engineering.
• Minimum of 10 years’ management experience in the construction industry.

Personal Attributes:

• Excellent problem-solving skills and sound judgment.
• Decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to communicate effectively at Senior Management level.
• High integrity, confidentiality, discipline, and authority.
• Excellent speaking skills.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Desired Skills:

• CRM proficiency
• Product Management in Ceramics
• Construction industry knowledge