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Product Manager

  • Job
    Full-time
    Senior Level
  • Logistics
    Product
  • Houston

AI generated summary

  • You need a relevant bachelor's degree, 5 years as a Product Manager in manufacturing, 3 years in management, advanced Excel and ERP experience, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication abilities.
  • You will manage product life cycles, coordinate with global teams, optimize inventory, analyze data for improvements, lead projects, and develop team capabilities while ensuring alignment across departments.

Requirements

  • * Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Accounting, Finance, Business, Logistics, Customer Service or related field
  • * Minimum of 5 years' experience as Product Manager/Scheduler in manufacturing industry
  • * Minimum of 3 years of management or supervisory experience
  • * Advanced Excel experience and proficiency with MS Office suite
  • * Experience using SAP or other ERP systems.
  • * Strong data-driven analytical and reporting capabilities.
  • * Working knowledge of product lifecycle management concepts and processes.
  • * Proven ability to negotiate and mediate with internal stakeholders and external partners.
  • * Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including presentation, interpersonal, and consulting capabilities; strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills.
  • * Demonstrated ability to prioritize workload, manage multiple projects, and consistently meet deadlines.
  • * Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills with the ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  • * Must possess a valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

  • Execute key digital product/service life-cycle activities, aligning with procurement and distribution
  • Develop standard processes and tooling requirements to support asset life-cycle management
  • Consolidate sales forecasts from local sales representatives and group companies
  • Coordinate with Sales, R&D, and manufacturing departments
  • Integrate global input from Business Unit partners (Kuraray Europe, Japan, Mexico, Shanghai, South America, Kuraray Asia Pacific)
  • Use quantitative methods to determine and establish optimal production plans
  • Optimize inventory levels using data-driven systems
  • Manage inventory of imported materials
  • Work with third-party warehouses and import/export brokers as appropriate
  • Work with the Global Product Management Team for consolidation of production and inventory across regions
  • Discuss and coordinate material requirements with other regions
  • Propose material priorities for improved global operation of the PVOH
  • Manage project schedules and identify risks
  • Evaluate feasibility and relevance of proposed solutions
  • Work in cross-functional, global or agile teams to develop significant aspects of product development
  • Develop data-driven analyses to surface new opportunities to differentiate and improve products and product management
  • Ensure consistency across digital products, services, and channels
  • Coordinate production budgets and reporting with accounting
  • Maintain product information, auto batch selection, and other related data in SAP, Visitrak and Aspen Tech
  • Approve order releases, new SKU and other data requests electronically
  • Lead small to medium-sized project teams
  • Communicate project vision and necessary outcomes
  • Coordinate team actions on project activities
  • Identify areas for improvement and build team capabilities through training, coaching, and mentoring
  • Lead, coach, and develop team members to support product and business goals
  • Set clear expectations, monitor performance, and provide regular feedback
  • Identify training needs and support employee development and growth
  • Encourage teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement across the team
  • Serve on Administrative teams as needed within Kuraray America
  • Uncover emerging issues or needs, identify potential causes, barriers, and key stakeholders

FAQs

What is the location for the Product Manager position?

The Product Manager position is located in Houston, TX.

What qualifications are required for the Product Manager role?

The minimum qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Accounting, Finance, Business, Logistics, Customer Service, or a related field, along with a minimum of 5 years' experience in a manufacturing role and 3 years of management or supervisory experience.

What kind of experience is preferred for this position?

Candidates should have advanced Excel expertise, proficiency with the MS Office suite, and experience with SAP or other ERP systems, as well as strong data-driven analytical and reporting capabilities.

What are the main responsibilities of the Product Manager?

Responsibilities include production scheduling and asset lifecycle management, inventory management, global production coordination, innovation and product development, data management and analysis, project team management, leadership and team development, and general administrative support.

Are there opportunities for professional development in this role?

Yes, the position includes leadership and team development responsibilities, providing opportunities for coaching, training, and employee growth.

What benefits does Kuraray America offer to its employees?

Benefits include a competitive compensation package with base pay and an annual incentive, robust healthcare coverage, wellness reimbursements, three weeks of paid time off, ten company holidays, paid parental leave, education reimbursement, and a matching 401k plan.

Is there a preference for internal candidates for this position?

The job description does not specify a preference for internal candidates, but it does indicate that the role will act as a sales contact for internal customers.

What competencies are valued for the Product Manager position?

Important competencies include customer focus, business insight, innovation cultivation, action orientation, accountability, results-driven focus, collaboration, valuing diversity, effective communication, courage, trust-building, and situational adaptability.

Will I need to travel for this position?

The job description does not explicitly mention travel requirements, but given the global coordination aspects, some travel may be necessary.

Does Kuraray America have a commitment to diversity and inclusion?

Yes, Kuraray America is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace.

Working to create sustainable materials for a greener future.

Manufacturing & Electronics
Industry
501-1000
Employees
1986
Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

Kuraray is a global specialty chemical company that focuses on developing innovative materials, including resins, fibres, and chemicals, catering to various industries such as automotive, electronics, packaging, and healthcare. Their ultimate mission is to create value for society through the provision of high-quality products and solutions that address the evolving needs of their customers while prioritising sustainability and environmental responsibility. Kuraray's purpose revolves around leveraging their technological expertise and research capabilities to deliver products that enhance everyday life, promote safety, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Benefits

  • Competitive salaries

  • Health, medical, and dental insurance

  • Retiree Medical Plan

  • Paid vacation

  • Paid sick and personal days

  • Employer-paid life insurance

  • Paid holidays

  • Matching Charitable Contributions

  • Matching 401K plans