Product Manager (Acoustical Tile) - Remote Possible at USG Corporation in Chicago, Illinois

Job Description:

The Product Manager drives the new product development process to ensure products are developed on time and within budgetary goals. This includes leading product planning and design to ensure the products are successfully launched and differentiated from our

competition. The position also manages full product life-cycle, including conception, definition, development, launch and post-launch activities.

In association with USG Ceilings Sales and Shared Services Teams, this position provides market definition, trend analysis, sales support, lead/sales development, competitive analysis and vital assistance with public relations, promotion, major commercial project closing and

advertising opportunities.

Position will require in person collaboration with Plants and Business, and Shared Services, as needed and in accordance with safety protocols.  Remote work may be possible for qualified candidates.  Ideal candidates reside in the following markets:  Chicago metro, including Libertyville, Cloquet, MN and Walworth, WI.  

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Includes the following and performs additional responsibilities as assigned:

• Develop and lead new product development process for acoustical tile, creating a pipeline from ideation through product development and commercialization


• Conduct product line analysis to manage a successful product portfolio – including product life cycle analysis, sales trends, SKU level performance, profitability, and price/volume/mix


• Develop and recommend product positioning, pricing, and placement across customer channels


• Present recommendations on product strategy and additions, changes, or deletions


• Lead the management of an acoustical tile product database, in collaboration with Marketing, around product details and applications


• Collaborate with Channel Marketing & Marketing, and coordinate with Sales on the development and execution of effective product launches and changes


• Collaborate with the plants and outside product vendors, Channel Marketing, Technical Services, CIC,  Sales, Customer Service, Legal, Sourcing, and other key departments to support marketing initiatives, launches and campaigns, acting as the acoustical tile product expert


• Understand channels and customer needs and recommend research, marketing, or sales activities


• Analyze and make recommendations on competitive products and services


• Assist in the development and changes in product packaging and labeling 


• Monitor trends and act as a product resource for USG Quality Managers


• Develop and conduct product line training and presentations for internal and external customers


• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Sourcing, Quality, Technical Services, CIC, Customer Service, Sales, and Logistics about on ongoing management of and changes to the acoustical tile product line


• Build and leverage relationships with End-Users, Architects, Designers, Contractors, Big Box, Builders, and Distributors to drive desired business outcomes

Education

• Bachelor’s degree.  Business, sales, and marketing preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of building materials experience.


• Previous experience in ceilings preferred.


• Experience with territory management, multiple customer segments and job tracking preferred.

Required Skills

• Experience with Salesforce.com preferred.


• Strong business acumen and professionalism.


• Excellent analytical, decision making and critical thinking skills.


• Strong communication/interpersonal skills, including negotiating, presentation, professional selling, conflict resolution and relationship building.


• Self-motivated with a focus on working to and exceeding targets.


• Effective and independent time and scheduling management of activities.


• Ability to set and self-manage priorities to ensure maximizing of account development maximization for both existing and new accounts.


• High energy and enthusiasm for product line required.


• Ability to effectively multi-task and manage concurrent projects, time and priorities in fast paced environment.


• Focused on providing excellent customer service, both internally and externally.

Preferred

• Strong understanding of all USG Ceilings customer needs including Architectural & Design, Specialty Distribution, Commercial Contractors, and retail ceilings.


• Strong understanding of commercial construction, components and possess technical aptitude.


• Ability to lead, absent a direct reporting relationship to you, through influence.

Travel Requirements

• Travel time up to and over 25% servicing respective market and within the assigned region

EOE including disability/veteran

Salary: