Lead, Product Manager
Reference #24557
Waterdown, Ontario
About L3HARRIS WESCAM
As a subsidiary of L3Harris Technologies and within the Integrated Mission Systems Segment, the WESCAM division develops the most advanced optical sensor and targeting systems for global defense and military sectors, National Security, Search & Rescue and Airborne law enforcement agencies. From long-range covert surveillance missions to search and rescue operations, our MX-series systems, and the mission systems solutions they are a part of, produce stabilized high-magnification electro-optical and infrared images from airborne, marine and ground based platforms, enabling our customers to see first and act first.
About the Role
We are looking for a talented individual to join our Product Line Management team located in Waterdown, ON. The Lead, Product Manager is responsible for managing the cost and schedule requirements of a product line offering through all phases from proposal to distribution. Analyzes and designs technical product enhancements, integrating the work of engineering, manufacturing, marketing, sales, and service functions for new product offerings. Plans, prepares, and presents product introduction strategies. Provides product consultation during the design stage. Participates in the marketing, forecasting and financial aspects of the product offering. Provides strategic technical consultation to field personnel and customers during the early life cycle of new product offerings. Manages offering through each phase of the IRAD Checkpoint process. The role will be on-site and requires international travel.
This motivated, self-starter should have experience developing complex new products in a product management or project management role. The successful candidate must have a “can do” attitude, and possess creative problem-solving skills. This candidate must be highly organized with the ability to multi task, while maintaining attention to details. Excellent interpersonal skills are also critical to success in this position.
Primary Responsibilities
Lead the planning, delivery, and support of a WESCAM product line(s) through the entire product lifecycle; act as SME and point-of-contact for internal stakeholders
Responsible for achieving yearly Product Line AOP revenue and profit target
Responsible for financial health of product; analyze factors impacting contribution margin, then identify and drive changes to maximize CM
Define Pricebook product configurations and options
Approve scope of work, budget, and timeline for IRAD and Sustaining projects related to their product line
Generate NPI Project SOW with top level requirements
Work cross-functionally to drive on-time completion
Review and approve budget variance and scope of work changes
Consult to help make key decisions and solve difficult problems
Develop and manage plans for market introduction and production cut-in of new products/features
Develop and manage plans for SKU rationalization, end-of-life, and supersession of current products/features
Engage and align stakeholders; communicate product lifecycle plans; adjust based on inputs and changing conditions
Provide technical sales support to BD when needed to capture new business
Support major bids by developing/reviewing the proposed technical solution, technical write-up, and compliance matrix
Lead discussions on technical topics during internal bid reviews and customer briefings
Identify risks and opportunities, and provide mitigation strategies
Approve bids that include exceptions from the Pricebook
Review and approve NRE estimates for bids that require custom development
Create technical white papers to explain new technologies, support export, or respond to customer inquiries
Train Business Development staff on new product features
Provide inputs to and approval of marketing collateral
Identify need and provide justification to acquire new Demo assets
Required Capabilities
Strategic planning to align product line objectives with the overall business strategy, considering factors such as market trends, competitive landscape, and long-term goals.
Customer focused approach, intent on understanding customer needs and preferences to maximize the product’s value proposition and achieve customer satisfaction.
Solid understanding of business case fundamentals, including cost structures, revenue forecasts, profit margins, and metrics such as return on investment (ROI) and net present value (NPV).
Analytical skills to assess the performance of product strategies and initiatives to make data-driven decisions using financial metrics, market research, and other relevant data.
Able to assess and manage risks across a wide spectrum while making product decisions under uncertain conditions.
Innovation mindset and keeps up-to-date with technology trends relevant to the product line.
Proven track record of overseeing product introductions from concept through to successful production launch, utilizing agile development processes.
Ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams without formal management role.
History of establishing strong relationships with leaders across the organization to get things done.
Able to communicate effectively and concisely
Excellent presentation skills to conduct technical product briefings to customers and internal stakeholders.
Exceptional time management skills with ability to handle multiple tasks and effectively balance priorities.
Familiar with Configuration Management practices, non-conformance management/closure, failure investigations/corrective action closure.
In-depth knowledge of the EOIR market and products, aerospace industry, and regulations.
Technical knowledge of the following:
Design of products to be used on aircraft, maritime or ground vehicles
IR and EO sensor technology and optical design
Laser illuminators, rangefinders, and designators
Digital video standards
Verification testing to military and aerospace standards
Desired Education and Experiences
Bachelor’s Degree and a minimum of 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience.
Engineering or Business degree preferred. MBA an asset.
Project Management Professional (PMP) certification desired
7+ years of experience developing high-complexity products in a manufacturing environment, preferably in the aerospace or defense industry
Experience leading multi-disciplinary product development project teams
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