Overview
The Product Manager is responsible for the strategy, performance, and product lines for the assigned portions of the Axchem USA product portfolio. Serving as the central point of coordination for product-related activities, this role develops and executes product line strategy, interfaces with SNF manufacturing and third-party supply partners, maintains accurate and accessible product information, and optimizes supply and cost position to support profitable growth.
Reporting to the Sales Operations and Product Manager, the Product Manager provides strong support to the Field Technical and Sales organization and the entire Axchem USA team, and works closely with SNF, global Axchem counterparts, and external partners. The role requires strong indirect leadership, as success depends on influencing and aligning stakeholders across functions and geographies without direct authority.
LOCATION: Kennesaw, GA - Onsite at Axchem's Office.
Responsibilities
• Product Strategy & Portfolio Management • Develop and propose product line strategy to leadership and lead execution of the approved plan.
• Monitor market trends, competitor offerings, and raw material dynamics to inform portfolio decisions and competitive positioning.
• Support pricing strategy by providing cost, margin, and competitive insight to leadership and the commercial team.
• Product Information & Technical Knowledge • Collect, organize, maintain, and continuously improve product information, and communicate it effectively to internal stakeholders, primarily Sales & Business Development, Customer Service, and Logistics.
• Ensure accuracy and availability of key information, including sources, packaging, regulatory status, transport, storage, handling and feeding guidelines, quality specifications and properties, application guidelines, competitive positioning, and cost.
• Respond to customer information requests and support resolution of product-related incidents and quality concerns.
• Supplier & Partner Management • Serve as the primary point of contact for current and prospective manufacturing partners and third-party suppliers.
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative supplier relationships to develop product lines, manage existing products, and resolve technical and transactional issues.
• Leverage colleagues’ existing relationships where others own the contact, ensuring clear and coordinated communication.
• Coordinate sample availability with SNF and third-party partners in support of trials and sales opportunities.
• Supply Chain & Cost Optimization • Strengthen supply security and cost position by qualifying additional sources, negotiating improved terms, and developing supplier capabilities.
• Collaborate with Business Operations on inventory planning, logistics, and product and vendor setup in business systems.
• Identify, screen, source, and set up new products quickly to respond to emerging sales opportunities.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration • Partner with the AxTION, Innovation, R&D, Business Operations, and Marketing teams to align on product launches, training, regulatory matters, product literature, and other shared priorities.
• Support the sales organization with product training, technical and commercial positioning, and opportunity-specific guidance.
• Contribute to additional projects and initiatives as aligned with skills, experience, and organizational needs.
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards
Qualifications
REQUIREMENTS:
• Bachelor’s degree in Pulp and Paper Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field; equivalent industry experience demonstrating comparable capability will be considered.
• Minimum of three (3) years of commercial experience in an industrial technical or specialty materials environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to lead through influence.
• Ability and willingness to travel up to 50%.
• Preferred • Direct experience in the specialty chemicals industry, particularly supplying or selling to the pulp and paper industry. Comparable experience in other process industries will be considered.
• Experience identifying, evaluating, establishing, and managing third-party relationships for supply or technology collaboration.
• Proven success supporting projects across global, culturally diverse, and cross-functional teams.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics 365) and Microsoft SharePoint.
• Background in product management, procurement, or supply chain within a manufacturing or distribution business.
BENEFITS:
• Competitive Salary
• Medical Benefits
• Dental Benefits
• Vision Benefits
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Vacation Days
• Incidental/Sick Days
• Paid Holidays
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• Long-Term Disability
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Development & Training
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position.
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