Product Manager - Ceramics

University of Fort Hare; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 840,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in the ceramics sector is seeking a dynamic Product Manager to drive growth and innovation in their product line. This role involves collaborating with senior management to define strategies, analyze market trends, and support sales initiatives. The ideal candidate will leverage their extensive experience in the construction industry and strong communication skills to influence stakeholders and lead product launches. Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to delivering high-quality solutions and enhancing market presence through strategic product management.

Qualifications

• 10 years of management experience in the construction industry.
• Postgraduate degree in Civil, Chemical, or Structural Engineering.

Responsibilities

• Prepare market studies and analyze market potential.
• Manage sales force and support product promotion.
• Lead new product introductions and collaborate with R&D.

Skills

Management Experience

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving

Influencing Skills

Education

Postgraduate Degree in Engineering

Tools

CRM Software

Job description

Job Title: Product Manager - Ceramics

Salary: R 800,000 - R 840,000 Annually (Market related, Negotiable)

Location: Germiston

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 and reporting on market intelligence through surveys, keeping HQ and management informed of market changes.
2. Analyze market potential and cooperate with sales to estimate potential sales and activate distribution channels.
3. Manage and support the sales force, including customer visits, product promotion, solution identification, and training on product application.
4. Review sales results periodically to achieve sales targets and monitor product performance and margins in collaboration with the Distribution Manager.
5. Lead the introduction of new products, including launch strategies, product testing with R&D, and developing technical literature with Marketing.
6. Collaborate with R&D on developing new products and verifying product parameters and formulations during testing.
7. Coordinate with Operational Marketing, Quality Systems, HSE, and Technical Assistance for updating technical datasheets, packaging, labeling, and catalogs.
8. Manage technical training related to the product line in coordination with Technical Assistance.
9. Support the creation of technical documentation and product application references.
10. Develop a network of sector specialists such as opinion leaders and academics.
11. Handle claims following established procedures, including site visits and communication with involved departments.
12. Report regularly to headquarters and work closely with the Corporate Product Management Department for guidelines and instructions.
13. Support the sales and specifications teams with technical details and generate technical texts and solutions.
14. Provide monthly progress reports in management meetings.
15. Maintain up-to-date CRM activities and data.
16. Deliver CPD training to architects, engineers, and key stakeholders.
17. Conduct external stakeholder training and participate in marketing events and expos.
18. Travel to regional sites to provide product support as needed.

Requirements:

• Postgraduate degree in Civil, Chemical, or Structural Engineering.
• 10 years of management experience in the construction industry.
• Ability to influence and operate with high integrity and honesty.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of engaging at senior management levels.
• Strong problem-solving, judgment, and decision-making abilities.
• High level of confidentiality, discipline, and authority.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.