At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product strategy, manage launches, and optimise offerings in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a fast-growing chemical distributor making waves in the industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work options and a collaborative team culture.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative team that values your input and fosters growth.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in product or project management; strong analytical and communication skills required.
- Other info: Office-based in Cambridge with opportunities for international collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Office Based in Cambridge - Hybrid
Our client is a rapidly expanding chemical distributor looking for an ambitious Product Manager with a technical and commercial background in chemical supply and distribution. You will be expected to use your technical knowledge in chemistry together with your commercial experience to develop and execute a comprehensive product strategy aligned with business objectives, market trends, and customer needs under the direction of the Head of Product Management.
Key Responsibilities and Requirements
- Identify and evaluate new product opportunities by conducting market research, competitor analysis, and customer feedback analysis.
- Plan and manage product launches, including but not limited to material creation complying with regulatory requirements, pricing, value proposition and promotional strategies.
- Conduct market assessments, monitor product performance and make data-driven decisions to identify areas for improvement, optimise product offerings and manage product life cycle.
- Liaise with supply chain teams to manage comprehensive material requirement planning, coordinate demand forecasting, ensure optimal supply, inventory management and timely delivery.
- Coordinate and organise sample management by liaising with sales and logistics.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and global product managers, fostering collaboration, and ensuring high supplier performance.
- Negotiate terms and pricing with suppliers and global product management teams to optimise profitability.
- Monitor supplier performance, resolve issues, and ensure compliance with applicable regulations and standards.
Technical Skills
- Highly numerate with an ability to calculate pricing, margins and costs are key to this role.
- Ideally the candidate will have experience in an international trading and/or distribution environment and be familiar with incoterms.
- The ideal candidate will have CRM and ERP experience (SAP).
- A minimum of 5 years’ experience in the same or similar role such as supplier management or project management.
- Capacity to manage multiple projects.
Candidate Requirements:
- Ability to work both as part of a team and on own initiative with excellent listening, verbal and written communication skills and attention to detail.
- Understand client needs.
- Good planning, organisational and problem-solving skills with the ability to prioritise competing demands.
- Exceptional at problem-solving and able to remain calm under pressure.
- Can meet targets and deadlines with a willingness to learn.
Product Manager employer: Merritt Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Merritt Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in the chemical distribution industry. Understanding current market dynamics and emerging technologies will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the chemical supply and distribution sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues or mentors who can provide insights and possibly refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your negotiation skills, as this role involves liaising with suppliers and managing pricing strategies. Consider role-playing scenarios with friends or colleagues to build confidence in your negotiation techniques.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed product launches or improved product performance in previous roles. Having concrete stories ready will showcase your experience and problem-solving abilities effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in product management, particularly in the chemical supply and distribution sector. Emphasise your technical knowledge in chemistry and any commercial achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Discuss how your background in market research, product launches, and supplier management makes you a perfect fit for the position.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in data analysis, project management, and CRM/ERP systems like SAP. Mention your ability to negotiate and manage supplier relationships, as these are crucial for the role.
Showcase Problem-Solving Abilities: Provide examples in your application that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. This could include specific challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you successfully navigated them.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merritt Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
As a Product Manager in the chemical industry, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of chemistry and how it applies to product strategy. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where your technical expertise has influenced product decisions or improvements.
✨Prepare for Market Analysis Questions
Expect questions about market research and competitor analysis. Familiarise yourself with current trends in the chemical distribution sector and be ready to share insights on how you would identify new product opportunities based on this information.
✨Highlight Your Project Management Skills
With a minimum of 5 years’ experience required, be sure to discuss your project management capabilities. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed multiple projects, including any challenges faced and how you overcame them.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Prepare to showcase your ability to liaise with various teams, such as supply chain and sales. Think of instances where your communication skills helped resolve issues or foster collaboration.