Director of Product Management (Commercial & Partnerships)

The HR Team•Jessup, MD

5d•$160,000 - $180,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Morningstar Corporation is seeking a Director of Product Management with a focus on hardware product management experience. This role will lead the commercial strategy for Morningstar's core components and systems businesses, combining strategic product lifecycle management with the development of key commercial partnerships. The Director will drive new product launches, maximize the profitability of the industrial off-grid solar portfolio, and execute strategic outsourcing initiatives. Initially, the role will function as an individual contributor, defining the operational foundation, with the future goal of scaling and mentoring a team.

Requirements

7–10+ years of hardware product management experience, with a heavy emphasis on commercial strategy, go-to-market execution, and partner management.
A Bachelor's degree in engineering, software, systems & controls, or a closely related technical field.
Proven track record of sourcing and managing contract manufacturers (CMs), Joint Design Manufacturers (JDMs), or white-label partners, ideally with experience in Asian supply chains.
Deep understanding of P&L management, margin optimization, and financial modeling (NPV, ROI) for power conversion products and systems.
Ability to engage confidently in technical discussions with engineers, customers, and partners while translating complex concepts into clear business value, market positioning, and commercial strategy.
Brings a positive, proactive attitude and a bias for action.
Thrives in evolving environments, embraces challenges, builds alignment across teams, and focuses on solutions rather than obstacles.
Known for building strong cross-functional relationships, fostering alignment, and influencing without ego.
Demonstrated success working across engineering, sales, marketing, operations, and executive leadership teams.

Nice To Haves

An MBA is preferred, but not a requisite.
Prior experience in power electronics, IoT platforms, inverters, hybrid systems design, solar hardware, or industrial components is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

Drive the successful commercial launch of integrated industrial power product lines.
Develop and refine pricing strategy and positioning across wholesale distribution and E-commerce channels.
Define clear commercial metrics for success and ensure rapid time-to-revenue.
Own the roadmap and profitability of the established components business.
Guide and prioritize new R&D investments to maintain competitiveness.
Identify outsource and white label opportunities to fill gaps.
Implement pricing and margin restructuring strategies to defend against aggressive market competitors while protecting the bottom line.
Act as the primary commercial leader responsible for identifying, vetting, and managing external partners.
Assess and execute strategic outsourcing initiatives.
Translate complex technical requirements into commercial Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and vendor contracts.
Operate as a hands-on, Individual Contributor.
Define the operational cadence for the department function.
Scope, hire, and mentor to scale the team's execution capabilities.
Serve as the connective link between Engineering, Sales, Marketing, Operations, and Executive Leadership.
Build alignment around product strategy, priorities, launch plans, and customer needs.
Ensure customer, market, and commercial insights are incorporated into product decisions.
Foster a culture of transparency, collaboration, and shared accountability across teams.
Lead product reviews and planning processes that create clarity and organizational alignment.