Assistant Product Manager at Hotpoint Appliances Ltd

Reports to: Commercial Director

Department: Commercial

Location: Head Office, Ruiru

Job Purpose:

• To lead the sales and marketing process and strategy for the specific product categories assigned.
• To optimise revenue generation for the specific product line to meet business objectives.

Job Responsibility and Accountability:

• Develop a strategy for the assigned product portfolio.
• Ensure product portfolio is relevant to the market based on local and global trends.
• Ensure time-based strategy for any EOL models.
• Maintain and update rolling forecasts for all products in line with sales & inventory levels.
• Develop and maintain strong relations with suppliers to derive maximum value
• Ensure proper contracts and SLAs are maintained with all suppliers
• Negotiate with suppliers for specifications, MOQs, prices, terms and promotions.
• Ensure suppliers have a robust quality control policy for the sourced products
• Resolve any quality issues with suppliers to get timely support and rectification.
• Ensure competitive pricing based on market intelligence and product strategy.
• Ensure timely shipments in the most cost-effective mode.
• Maintain inventory levels to avoid overstocking or stockouts.
• Track market information on competitor products, pricing and trends
• Have full product knowledge and impart the same to sales team.
• Execute timely promotions as per annual marketing plan, based on supplier discussions and channel requirements.

Requirements and Inventory Positions:

• Prepare annual purchase budgets based on strategic goals.
• Create and update training materials.
•  Assist in conducting regular product trainings.
• Assist with market survey reports.
• Advice the sales team on stock situations as and when required.
•  Assist in development of sales promotions and other portfolio related marketing activities
• Resolve any service issues from dealers.
• Ensure correct pricing and descriptions of the products in the category.
• Ensure website listing of products is active and accurate.

Qualification:

• Minimum qualification of a degree in business or any other relevant field.
• Previous experience in commercial, procurement or sales. Preferably in similar industry.
• Extensive knowledge of the channel management, forecasting and strategic planning.
• Understanding of market trends and mapping.
• Extensive financial & supply chain knowledge.
• Knowledge of preparation of budgets
• Track record of effective strategy execution.
• Track record negotiating with suppliers

Key Skills:

1. Planning and forecasting skills.
2. Problem solving skills.
3. Ability to prioritize and timely execution
4. Report writing and presentation skills.
5. Budget management skills.
6. Market mapping – trends, segmenting and tracking
7. Ability to understand product and train
8. Identifying and sourcing products based on market trends and requirements