Japanese company seeks Corporate Planning Manager or Analyst.

THE POSITION:

As an Associate Product Manager for the Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) team, you will be responsible for developing and executing product category strategies and tactics, including market and business analysis, product and supplier development, pricing, stocking, sales, costs, marketing initiatives, service improvements, product merchandising, and customer support. You will support the customer’s inquiry, delivery and RFQ. Since most of our products are procured from our head office in Japan, we require personnel who can adjust delivery dates and prices in Japanese. This position has a hybrid schedule, and you will be required to be in the Schaumburg, IL office 3 days per week. We provide relocation assistance. We provide relocation assistance. Your activities will include:


Managing assigned portfolios as product and application expert. Category ownership of the product line plan: new product/supplier selection, definition, pricing, procurement, launch, and sustaining maintenance of the product line.
Providing product expertise and assistance to internal and external customers related to performance, function, pricing, packaging, merchandising, and value.
Analyzing and reporting on key financial metrics, develop product, pricing and promotion strategy for the category.
Collaborating with suppliers and ensure optimal performance standards of products.
Conducting primary qualitative & quantitative end user research in partnership with sales, engineering and product management team members.
Facilitating development of detailed scopes for individual projects, action plans for implementation, and communication with other departments to ensure timely completion.
Collaborating with all internal departments and management to ensure all assigned projects are completed efficiently and on schedule.
Driving merchandising and strategic plans that improve web performance and profitability.
Learning and implementing the Strategic Framework.
Supporting Japanese language-related operations, including US expansion of Japan-developed products, product inquiries, special order support, etc.


WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU:

2+ years of experience managing a product portfolio with strong growth/results.
Experience in product lifecycle management.
Highly motivated, driven, responsible, and results oriented.
Capacity to work on several projects at the same time.
Strategic and goal-oriented mindset
Excellent problem solving, interpersonal, leadership and conflict management skills.
Able to identify and analyze relevant information to develop suitable solutions.
Knowledge of Fastener and Measuring tool product category
Knowledge of webpage development and digital marketing.
Highly proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, Word and Outlook.
Experience working in an international environment preferred.
Some travel required (15-30%).