Lead Category Manager, Braking Systems - North America Aftermarket

ZF • Vernon Hills, IL

126d

About The Position

The Lead Category Management team drives product strategy and growth across multiple business lines, partnering closely with sales, marketing, and engineering to deliver innovative solutions that meet customer and market needs. With expertise in product development and market analysis, the team ensures ZF's offerings remain competitive and future-focused.

Requirements

• BS in Marketing or similar major (MBA preferred).
• 8-10 years' experience managing multiple product lines and people.
• Computer proficiency: MS Office required; SAP with expertise in MS Excel.
• Experience with braking and braking systems is a huge plus.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work within tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• In conjunction with the Sales Team, conduct market studies and create business plans for project/future programs and products to meet customer and market requirements.
• Develop and propose product line service readiness projects with proposed and designated budgets.
• Maintain, revise, and expand current product offerings and consistently introduce new, related products or product lines, with preparation of service readiness for new product introduction into the marketplace.
• Lead project managers and sales teams in developing sales and marketing strategies and appraise the results of each sales program against objectives.
• Regulate the sales force of new products, applications, and updates by creating marketing material to introduce those into the marketplace.
• Ensure the development and availability of bulletins, flyers, promotions, catalogs, price sheets, etc., in order to increase the program's overall performance and profitability.
• Annual product line review development illustrating current position in market, strategy by product line, and a clear roadmap for the future.
• Ensure effective control and achievement of the Product Management budget and ensure corrective actions are enacted when necessary.
• Coordinate and ensure the tracking, recording, and implementation of all product-related revisions in cooperation with the affected departments and vendors.
• Propose and agree on sales rates, decisions, and actions, measuring performance set goals and metrics.
• Lead and develop a team of direct reports.

Benefits

• A supportive collaborative team environment
• Annual Incentive Plan
• Paid Vacation
• 401k Plan
• Health Care Benefits
• Paid Holidays
• A Hybrid Work Schedule (2 days remote/3 days onsite)
• A strong diversity culture
• Supportive Employee Groups and community outreach activities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree