PstrongCompany /strong /ppVibram S.p.A. is an Italian multinational leader in the production and marketing of high-performance rubber soles, a symbol of innovation and design. /ppIn addition to the Italian Headquarters and its central offices in Milan, Vibram boasts international locations with production sites, research and development centers and representation in the United States, China, Japan and Brazil. /ppbr/ppstrongJob Title /strong /ppstronguProduct Line Manager /u /strong /ppstrongMission /strong /ppThe primary goal of the Product Line Manager is to maintain a constant pulse on the business by deeply understanding the consumer: who they are and what they want, and Vibram: what it can do and how it can be done. /ppThe responsibility of the Product Line Manager is to manage the current and future planning of a specified category from an initial concept through production and promotion/communication. This intermediate-level position is responsible for driving the seasonal product creation strategy and process. The primary workload includes, but is not limited to, aligning product and product direction to meet the needs of the consumer and the Company's time/strategy. /ppThe Product Line Manager: /pulliis a leader within the product organization, articulating and executing the category visions across materials, design, development, sales, marketing, and all cross-category team members to ensure key stories and strategies are aligned throughout a season; /liliprovides dynamic, visible, and inspirational leadership to positively impact business initiatives, direction, and vision for the team and peers; /liliis accountable for category business results, product line efficiencies, and executing key initiatives. /li /ulpWith a strong eye for the end-to-end product process and a track record in managing a successful business, the Product Manager will rely on overseeing, facilitating, pushing, and supporting the company in bringing market-differentiated products to life through close collaboration with all cross-functional peers. /ppWorkplace: company headquarters in Albizzate (VA) /ppbr/ppstrongMain tasks /strong /pulliServe as expert on the business and target final consumer(s) in different activities, having a deep understanding of their needs and wants, to deliver consumer focused relevant product solutions. /liliLeverage consumer and competitive insights, market research, and industry trends to influence category concepts and products. /liliBenchmark competitor products / strategies, and analyze sales and market trends, to enable fact-based decision-making. /liliArticulate and execute the category visions across all cross-category team members to ensure key stories and strategies are aligned throughout a season. /liliManage the product lifecycle from product brief to commercialization. Oversee, facilitate, push, and support the end-to-end lifecycle of complex products from conception through launch. /liliLead cross-functional teams through the product creation process, from product brief through promotion/ commercialization, to ensure the needs of the consumer are met. /liliDetermine category / product segmentation that optimizes both resource and sales opportunities, and identify what is needed for product portfolio optimization /liliCreate and lead strategic product roadmap based on brand/category mission, strategic imperatives, strategic targets, in-depth data analysis, and a clear understanding of consumer needs. /liliClearly articulate the product roadmap, vision, priorities and requirements to multiple stakeholders Gather and incorporate feedback from a diverse range of stakeholders. /liliPartner with Mktg Team to align seasonal product initiatives and brand support through creative and relevant storytelling /liliSupport the Sales Team with meeting presentations, both internally and externally /liliBrainstorm and bring advanced technology ideas to Advanced Development Team to further product interest and market position. /liliMaintain clear, timely and effective communication with all necessary parties in reviewing products progress and resolving issues as needed. /li /ulpbr/ppstrongSkills /strong /pulliMore than 7 years of Product Line Manager experience gained in multinational companies, preferable in strongsporting goods and/or footwear or sportive apparel environment /strong, /liliProfessional experience abroad (preferable in Asia). /liliBachelor’s Degree required. /liliStrong working knowledge and strongbackground in footwear product management /strong. /liliDemonstrated ability to work with and inspire a broad range of individuals to work toward a common goal. Strong leadership skills /liliHigh attention to detail and strong organizational skills. /liliStrong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to think and plan strategically. /liliAbility to manage multiple sources of data, product seasons, and conflicting objectives (product performance vs. value/costing vs. consumer need). /liliProactive thinking, initiative, and composure in a fast-paced environment. /liliExcellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex topics in a public forum. /liliStrong cross-cultural understanding. /liliPersonal interest and involvement in sports is preferred. /liliMust be able to travel internationally. Approximately 30% travel, which may include some weekends and holidays. /lilistrongFluent in English /strong and possibly in another language /li /ulpbr/ppstrongWhat we offer /strong /pulliDirect hiring into the company /liliA young, stimulating, collaborative environment /liliThe history and heritage of a universally recognized brand /li /ul