Product Manager, Special Projects, Toys

The product development manager is responsible for driving the technical development and execution of assigned product portfolios from conception to distribution. The product development manager assesses the viability of new products, and once in development ensuring high quality standards, meets deadlines, is within budget, and that the end product meets consumer needs and is within industry trends. This role collaborates closely with internal cross functional teams.

What you will do:

1. Manage programs to time, cost, and quality and reconcile against business and development objectives
2. Coordinate with multi-disciplinary teams and global partners to streamline project communication and drive product from concept through to production and shipping
3. Establish project plans in collaboration with cross-functional development teams to determine tasks, milestones, resources, and ship dates
4. Supporting manufacturing and design activities by developing prototypes for products in development
5. Partner with global operations to provide early warning of delays and strategize appropriate solutions in development plans or processes and provide updated development calendars when necessary
6. Identify, anticipate, and manage risks or issues prior to each development milestone, and provide alternate process solutions. Report and escalate potential red flags to management as needed with defined plans and resolutions
7. Consulting market research materials and sales data to ensure that products are viable and competitive
8. Update all key product development/project management documents and systems daily
9. Use appropriate verification techniques to manage changes in project scope, schedule, and costs
10. Interfacing with key vendors/suppliers and Asia product managers, to ensure a smooth business process
11. Work with Brand Management Team to develop competitive assessments and research trends to identify future opportunities and to develop product expansion strategies for successful product lines
12. Ensure that all outsourced work is quoted in a timely fashion and approved prior to work performed
13. Collaborate with Sales to plan and execute effective presentations and achieve profitability targets
14. Ensure item master is accurate and updated on an ongoing basis (costing, factory info, product dimensions, etc...)
15. Track/analyze sales & profitability of new & existing products
16. Supports senior leadership
17. Perform other duties as assigned

Manages People: No

What we look for:

1. Bachelor's degree in engineering, industrial design, or industry relevant field required
2. 5+ years of relevant experience
3. Project management experience
4. Experience with plastics, materials, manufacturing
5. Experience in consumer goods industry
6. PMP or equivalent project management certificate a plus
7. Strong verbal and written communication skills
8. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
9. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop productive and professional relationships
10. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office & G-Suite
11. Able to work cross functionally, collaboratively, and reciprocally with multiple departments
12. Self-Motivated, and a self-starter
13. Able to multitask, organize, prioritize, and manage time efficiently
14. Can easily adapt to shifting priorities, and can manage multiple priorities at one time
15. Excellent attention to detail
16. Ability to deal effectively with diverse individuals at all organizational levels in a professional manner
17. A mindset that is collaborative, flexible, and growth oriented
18. Ability to gain an in-depth knowledge of our brands and products
19. Proven track record of successfully managing long and short-term projects
20. Strong presentation skills, with the ability to influence decision makers
21. Effective planning and analytical skills, including ability to define a problem, collect data, determine root cause, and work to resolution with a team
22. Experience in the toy/baby/costume/pets industry
23. Experience in the consumer goods industry
24. Multilingual a plus

Working Conditions

Environment: Office

Extreme Exposures: None

Schedule: Regular office; may require calls with Asian counterparts outside of normal business hours

Physical Requirements: Light; Lifting up to 25 lbs. Must be able to sit at desk for extended periods of time

Travel Required: None

Who We Are: Jazwares, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a leading global toy manufacturer with an award-winning, robust portfolio of wholly owned and licensed brands. Founded in 1997, Jazwares celebrates imaginative play with a progressive focus on identifying new and relevant trends to transform into high-quality products for consumers of all ages. Jazwares engages consumers through innovative play experiences with popular brands such as Squishmallows, Pokémon, Star Wars, CoComelon, Fortnite, AEW, Adopt Me!, Hello Kitty, and many more. In addition to toys, offerings also include Metaverse gaming, costumes, and products for pets. Headquartered in Sunrise, Florida, Jazwares has offices worldwide and sells its products in over 100 countries.

Working at Jazwares: At Jazwares, we believe an innovative idea can come from anywhere, and anyone. Through our three pillars, we foster innovation and encourage creativity in every area of our business.

Humility: We recognize the value in others and treat everyone with respect. Our strength lies in our people and talent.

Passion: Our conviction and enthusiasm show in our products, relationships, and commitment to our community.

Collaboration: We share one vision worldwide, constantly striving to improve and innovate together.

Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to be part of the fastest growing toy company in the industry. Connect with us today and let's shape the future of play together!

JAZWARES is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, ancestry, disability, age, military status, marital status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.

What We Offer: At Jazwares, we believe in providing our employees with comprehensive and competitive benefits that support their well-being and overall satisfaction. The salary range for this position is $82,000 - $100,000/ salary may vary based on experience, role tenure, performance, industry, location. Eligibility for annual performance incentive may apply. Jazwares is a multi-state employer, salary range may not apply to other states.

Our benefits package includes basic medical insurance that is 100% company-paid for employees and their children, employee basic life and AD&D insurance, a 401(K)-retirement program with Jazwares matching up to 4% of pretax or post-tax deferrals, short and long-term disability, and tuition reimbursement.

Our work environment provides a flexible work schedule that includes a Monday to Friday on-site, Fridays Work from Home, up to 20 workdays fully remote each year and PaidTime Off. Through Jazwares Cares, you can volunteer for up to 16 hours a year on community service projects.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.