Product Manager

Kuraray America•Houston, TX

23d

About The Position

The Product Manager utilizes the processes, systems, and monthly schedules needed to meet Kuraray America's product commitments to its customers and Global Business Unit partners. This role leads complex product lifecycle management activities, develops data-driven analyses to improve products and user experiences, and coordinates cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions. Through the Product Management Systems (Short-Term and Long-Term Plan Dashboard), the Product Manager leads efforts and defines the information needed to: Plan production on Kuraray America's PVOH production line Manage inventory within all Kuraray America controlled warehousing Work with Global PVOH and Product Manager's to manage import/export of PVOH and resins Optimize data management within all of Kuraray's computer and software systems Manage the sale and/or disposal of all non-prime, aged, scrap, and damaged material Analyze and evaluate feasibility of proposed complex products and services Provide support and direction to the PM team for the POVAL BU Act as sales contact for internal customers

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

Production Scheduling & Asset Lifecycle Management
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
Inventory Management
Optimize inventory levels using data-driven systems
Manage inventory of imported materials
Work with third-party warehouses and import/export brokers as appropriate
Global Production Coordination
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
Innovation & Product Development
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
Data Management & Analysis
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
Project Team Management
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
Leadership & Team Development
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.
General Administrative Support
Serve on Administrative teams as needed within Kuraray America
Uncover emerging issues or needs, identify potential causes, barriers, and key stakeholders