Product Manager

HexArmor•Grand Rapids, MI

About The Position

The Below The Neck Product Manager will have an opportunity to oversee the entire lifecycle of our glove product lines, from initial concept to market release and beyond. This role requires a deep understanding of the glove industry, including materials, technology, and customer needs. The Product Manager collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, Product Development, Marketing, Sales, and Production, to ensure successful product launches and continuous improvement of the glove portfolio.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree: degree in Business, Engineering, Sciences, or Design preferred
3-7 years relevant work experience
Experience in assortment management, including analyzing sales data, product lifecycle management and optimizing product portfolios.
Proficient in purchasing negotiations with international suppliers, particularly in Asian markets.
Expertise in supporting sales teams as a product expert, providing insights and guidance.
Proven project management experience, serving as a link between R&D, Product Development, Marketing, Sales and Production
Efficient in the use of Microsoft Office applications

Nice To Haves

CAD experience would be a nice to have
Knowledge and experience in Adobe Creative Suite are a plus

Responsibilities

Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of assigned product line(s), capable of educating, presenting, and training others as a subject matter expert.
Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure favorable pricing, terms, and agreements that align with company cost and quality objectives.
Develop a thorough understanding of product cost drivers, track relevant market indexes, and challenge supplier pricing using an agreed-upon strategy to optimize value and margin.
Collaborate with R&D and Product Management to transform innovative glove concepts into reality, integrating feedback from customers and internal teams.
Design SuperFabric arm and body products through via CAD program. Identify raw material components, coordinate with production team to produce finished goods, construct bill of materials and manage glove alteration program.
Conduct comprehensive market research to identify customer needs, assess competitor activities, and recognize emerging trends in the glove industry.
Partner with marketing, sales, and manufacturing teams to ensure smooth product launches and fulfill customer expectations.
Engage with suppliers to source materials, manage production timelines, and ensure product quality aligns with company standards.
Collect and analyze customer feedback to drive continuous product improvement and address market demands.
Oversee product costs, pricing strategies, and profitability throughout the product lifecycle.
Provide training for sales teams and customers on product features, benefits, and proper usage.
Ensure all glove products comply with relevant industry regulations and safety standards.
Collaborate with the quality assurance team to uphold high standards for product durability and performance.
Monitor product performance metrics and report key performance indicators (KPIs) to senior management.
Possess a thorough understanding of material performance test standards utilized by HexArmor, with the ability to teach and present confidently on their application, calculations, and implications of results.
Maintain in-depth knowledge of HexArmor's competitors' product lines, understanding their strengths and weaknesses in relation to HexArmor.