Product Manager

Volkswagen AG•Ajax, ON

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Product Planning Manager is tasked both with the management of product portfolios for select series models, as well as development of long-term cross-car line portfolio and pricing strategy for the Volkswagen Brand within the Canadian market. The incumbent will lead development of proposals and receive approval of market required lifecycle measures for assigned portfolio and also ensures initiation of the input and implementation of approved product strategies into various areas within VWCDuties & Responsibilities Develop offer structure (packaging & pricing strategy) for assigned model line(s) to achieve VWC sales and profitability objectives, taking into account customer needs and various market forces Ensure products adhere to predetermined pricing strategy relative to competitors, balancing against sales & profitability targets Coordinate internal approval of proposals with Sales, Controlling (Finance), and executive leadership Develop proposals for future model actions supported by market research and sound financial analysis Recommend market-driven mixes for the assigned models including trim structure, optional packages, powertrain, transmission, and colour offerings; balance market needs against overall complexity to maximize sales efficiency Represent Canadian market and its needs in meetings with VW Group stakeholders (region, factories, headquarters, etc.) Manage deliverables based on new model Start of Production (SOP) timing, adjusting when required Inform internal stakeholders of project premise changes (SOP, offer structure, features, etc.) Support all launch readiness steps, including set up of production systems (MBV, Spider, etc.) Support development of Order Guide(s) and Dealer Information Package(s) for assigned model line(s) Support internal stakeholders (Sales, Marketing, Training, Network Planning, etc.) in review of product-related materials to ensure accuracy and strategic alignment Lead integration of Product/Marketing in product development and communication strategy Support Departmental and Organizational endeavours Support management of departmental budgets where required

Requirements

Bachelors degree in Marketing, Business or a Technical discipline.
3+ years experience in developing and formulating product and pricing strategies, configuration and marketing direction
3+ years exposure to product planning, corporate strategy, project management, and/or automotive industry in a related capacity or technical discipline
Dealing with customers and suppliers who are geographically and culturally different
Exceptionally strong communication and interpersonal skills

Nice To Haves

Volkswagen factory experience considered a strong asset
Knowledge of Volkswagen products considered a strong asset

Responsibilities

Develop offer structure (packaging & pricing strategy) for assigned model line(s) to achieve VWC sales and profitability objectives, taking into account customer needs and various market forces
Ensure products adhere to predetermined pricing strategy relative to competitors, balancing against sales & profitability targets
Coordinate internal approval of proposals with Sales, Controlling (Finance), and executive leadership
Develop proposals for future model actions supported by market research and sound financial analysis
Recommend market-driven mixes for the assigned models including trim structure, optional packages, powertrain, transmission, and colour offerings; balance market needs against overall complexity to maximize sales efficiency
Represent Canadian market and its needs in meetings with VW Group stakeholders (region, factories, headquarters, etc.)
Manage deliverables based on new model Start of Production (SOP) timing, adjusting when required
Inform internal stakeholders of project premise changes (SOP, offer structure, features, etc.)
Support all launch readiness steps, including set up of production systems (MBV, Spider, etc.)
Support development of Order Guide(s) and Dealer Information Package(s) for assigned model line(s)
Support internal stakeholders (Sales, Marketing, Training, Network Planning, etc.) in review of product-related materials to ensure accuracy and strategic alignment
Lead integration of Product/Marketing in product development and communication strategy
Support Departmental and Organizational endeavours
Support management of departmental budgets where required

Benefits

Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
Opportunities for growth and development
A flexible, collaborative work culture
The chance to work with innovative Volkswagen and Audi vehicles
Health Insurance Coverage: We offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, including a flexible plan to ensure employees and their families have access to quality healthcare tailored to their needs.
Health Spending Account: Extra support for your wellness needs.
Retirement Plans & Savings: We offer a competitive defined contribution retirement plan and a generous savings match to help employees prepare for their future
Compensation: We recognize individual contributions and share company success through our Bonus & Merit Program, fostering a pay-for-performance culture
Vehicle Leasing and Purchase Programs: Employees and eligible family members can lease up to four vehicles annually at discounted rates, providing convenience and cost savings.
Personal Days: We value work-life balance and offer personal days for your discretion, whether for personal reasons, recharging, or celebrating important holidays or events.
Volunteer Days: These days allow employees to support meaningful charities aligned with our values and social responsibility.
Company Designated Holidays: We recognize the importance of celebrating the holiday season with our team. Therefore, we reserve specific company holidays in December to ensure employees can enjoy the festivities.
Wellness Programs: We prioritize our employees’ holistic well-being through initiatives like discounted gym memberships and mental health resources to support physical, mental, and emotional health.
Tuition Reimbursement: Part of our commitment to employee growth, this benefit covers approved course expenses to support ongoing education and long-term career development.