Ergon Asphalt and Emulsions, Inc. - Product Innovation & Strategy Manager

Ergon Asphalt and Emulsions, Inc•Flowood, MS

21d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Product Innovation & Strategy Manager is responsible for identifying, developing, and advancing innovative technologies, products, services, and business processes across Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions. This role serves as a key collaborator and connector among Sales, Marketing, Technical Services, Operations, Engineering, Quality, R&D, and Executive Leadership to support growth initiatives, accelerate commercialization efforts, enhance competitiveness, and create long-term value. The Product Innovation & Strategy Manager drives innovation projects from concept through implementation, helping ensure alignment with company objectives, customer needs, and market opportunities while influencing stakeholders across multiple functions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Marketing, Construction Management, Pavement Management, or a related field.
Five or more years of experience in product management, construction management, pavement management, business development, innovation, or related disciplines.
Demonstrated understanding of product development and commercialization processes.
Strong business acumen with the ability to evaluate market opportunities and develop business cases.
Ability to present, train, and communicate technical and business information effectively to diverse audiences.
Experience working in cross-functional environments and influencing stakeholders without formal authority.
Understanding of market development, customer adoption, and product lifecycle management principles.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; SAP, CRM, and project management software experience preferred.
Strong relationship-building and collaboration skills.
Strong organizational and project management skills.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
Strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
Self-motivated, collaborative, and results-oriented.
Ability to work independently while driving alignment among diverse stakeholder groups.
Comfortable operating in ambiguous environments and identifying opportunities for improvement and growth.
Valid U.S. driver's license and the ability to maintain an insurable driving record.

Nice To Haves

SAP, CRM, and project management software experience

Responsibilities

Support the development and execution of the company's innovation strategy and technology roadmap.
Identify emerging market trends, technologies, materials, and business opportunities that align with strategic objectives.
Coordinate cross-functional innovation initiatives from idea generation through commercialization.
Support new product development efforts, pilot programs, field trials, and market validation activities.
Facilitate innovation stage-gate processes and assist with portfolio management activities.
Partner with R&D, Operations, Technical Services, and commercial teams to accelerate implementation and adoption of innovative solutions.
Build and maintain relationships with universities, suppliers, industry organizations, and other strategic partners.
Assist in evaluating licensing opportunities, strategic alliances, acquisitions, and other growth initiatives.
Prepare business cases and financial analyses to support innovation investments and project prioritization.
Promote a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and knowledge sharing throughout the organization.
Represent Ergon at technical conferences, industry meetings, committees, and customer events.
Track, analyze, and communicate innovation project performance, milestones, and outcomes to leadership.
Serve as a subject matter resource on innovation processes, product lifecycle management, and market development activities.