Product Line Director - Chicago, United States - JBT

Description

Overview ...:

JBT Diversified Food & Health is a prime solutions and equipment provider within the fruit and vegetable industry segment. From preparation to preservation, conveying and packaging, our comprehensive range of technologies captures the freshness, taste, texture, appearance and nutritional value of fresh and processed fruit and vegetable products, and we have a fantastic opportunity for a Product Line Director to join our team.

JBT is consistently ranked one of the top 10 suppliers of best-in-class food processing solutions in the world. From solution development to installation and service, JBT responds to the ever-changing conditions that affect the worlds largest food processors, suppliers and fast-food chains, as well as institutional and commercial restaurants. They have a local presence in over 75 countries.

Purpose of the Position:

The Product Line Director provides regional strategic leadership to one or a set of product lines/technologies (new equipment & aftermarket) in the DIVERSIFIED FOOD & HEALTH (DFH) portfolio. The position is responsible for the assigned technology/product line(s) P&L, providing support to regional sales organizations, and developing specific marketing plans, product road maps, driving voice of customer activities, managing market research information and activities to establish, enhance, or distinguish placement within the competitive arena & pricing.

Major Responsibility Areas:

Provide strategic leadership

• Develop and implement a strategic plan for product line(s) that aligns with DFH overall strategy to grow earnings.
• Through travel and personal interaction maintain high-level external perspective regarding threats and opportunities relevant to the assigned product line(s). Understand industry/segment trends, customer requirements, and competitive dynamics.
• Research customer product requirements, competitive offerings, and product gaps to determine market needs for new products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure products are designed, manufactured, and market effectively to meet market/customer needs or gaps
• Work closely with sales and marketing to develop and execute effective marketing campaigns and sales strategies for the products
• Communicate the product line strategy & direction to appropriate functions/individuals within the company.
• Actively participate in creating the Annual Operating Plan
• Lead strategic planning sessions annually.
• Create brand strategies working with DF&H Marketing

Provide management oversight to ensure the tactical execution/ direction of the strategy

• Use the necessary tactics, tools, logistics, campaigns, and basic messaging to position assigned technology/product line(s).
• Research and use sales intelligence from the field to obtain market data, monitor competitive activity, and identify customer needs. Pull in region sales, business development and marketing resources as needed.
• Establish global pricing strategies and determine appropriate prices for new and existing products in each region.
• Identify competing and adjacent technologies that could fit into the JBT portfolio.
• Identify, implement and commercialize new products that can be developed internally through Product Development.
• Lead cross-functional teams/groups, (i.e., launch teams); developing new products or enhancing existing product(s) or product line(s).
• Final decision maker on product specifications.
• Manage risks during the execution of product rationalization and new product launches.
• Support the commercial team with market launch and product training packages (internal and external).
• Maintain and keep current the database of equipment installed at customer locations.

Manage and provide day-to-day leadership to the sales support team (Application Engineering function

• Lead and establish challenging objectives and develop and assess competencies of subordinates to assure development and growth in a balanced, motivating, safe, & healthy work atmosphere.
• Manage HR related activities for direct reports: salaries, bonus, individual objectives and development plans. Determine training goals, prepare succession plans

Timelines and Targets

• Though not directly responsible for Project Management, understand project timelines and make recommendations when a project is off course.
• Set and monitor target revenues, unit and margin goals for the year for each assigned product line.

Why is JBT a Great Place to Work?

We are a stable organization with strong values: Integrity, Accountability, Relentless Continuous Improvement, Teamwork, and a Passion for our customers.

As part of a large global organization, you will have opportunities for learning within your trade and growth beyond your current skillset. Multiple locations around the US and around the world provide numerous job opportunities. We also offer an educational reimbursement plan for employees who want to advance their formal education.

• We have competitive health and welfare benefits and more
• Three options of medical coverage through United Healthcare
• Two options of dental coverage through Delta Dental
• Vision coverage through VSP
• Paid holidays
• Paid vacation
• Company paid Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match - up to 6.5%
• Tuition Reimbursement (*eligible after 2 years)
• Employee discounts on products and services like event tickets, personal cell phone service, car insurance, and more

Education:

Mandatory: 4 year college degree in business management

Preferred: MBA

Mandatory Skills and Experience:

• 10+ years experience leading strategy for a product line
• Working knowledge of integrated business systems. Proficient in MS Office
• 5+ years supervisory or leadership experience.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Excellent oral and written communication in English; Multi lingual would be beneficial

Travel Requirements:

• Willing to travel as needed, both domestically and internationally.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

It is the policy of JBT Corporation to provide equal opportunity for qualified persons and not to discriminate against any applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law at the JBT Corporation location to which this application is submitted. In addition, as a Federal Government contractor, JBT Corporation is an affirmative action employer. If you require accommodation during the application process, please contact the local Human Resources department. EOE-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

If you have a disability or impairment that prevents you from completing the online application, please seek the assistance of your local employment services agency. JBT maintains active relationships with local employment services agencies, and they have pledged their support in assisting any applicant needing help in applying. To find information on agencies throughout the United States, please go to

You may also call Susan Cotton at if your disability or impairment prevents you from applying online. NOTE: Do not use this number unless you need assistance because of a disability or impairment. The personnel attending this phone line will not be able to give you a status update regarding your application and will not be the individuals making a decision regarding your employment.

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