Customer & Product Manager Christmas packaged cards & gift dressings

Job Description

Working with the Strategic Account Director and wider Special Editions and New Customer & Channel Team, the role of Customer and Product Manager will manage the development process from concept to release of Special Editions Trade and Charity ranges (Christmaspackaged cards & gift dressings) and Private Label exclusive Christmas ranges to the correct specification, COG and on time.You will be responsible for identifying, developing and implementing product opportunities to drive retail sales and profitability. The role will operate across a multiple customer base as well as brand so the ability to juggle multiple priorities is essential,along with coaching and supporting a team of Product Managers. This role is expected to directly input into the P&L, with an understanding of the end to end contribution of decisions you are making. The role requires significant retail account contact alongwith internal presentations to the Salesforce.Key Duties:- Develop and implement ideas to drive sales and profitability of Special Editions Trade and Charity ranges. This will include product, pricing mix and merchandising to improve the performance of Special Editions product.- Analyse the retail market and identify business opportunities.- Generate original and compelling ideas based on good understanding of the consumer, customer and UKG to drive sales for the customer and UKG.- Ensure the product spec offers good value for money, clear step offs and adhere to COG targets.- Collaborate with Far East Sourcing to drive lower cost of goods and drive efficiencies in product development and lower cost to serve.- Work with the Independent sales force to ensure they are well equipped to sell the Trade and Charity Special Editions ranges.- Collaborate with the Strategic Account Teams to develop private label ranges in line with the business strategy, to the correct timeframes.- Collaborate with all UKG departments including Business Improvement, Consumer Insight, CDS & Supply Chain.- Support the Strategic Account Business Managers in prospecting for new accounts.- Communicate effectively across the business to ensure a joined-up approach to Special Editions strategies and process.- Coach and manage the PM team to ensure there is a well-trained highly motivated team.- Working with other parts of UKG, develop & adhere to the CDP internally and with customers.- Develop visual merchandising and retail experience initiatives.You will have at least 3 years experience in retail/Buying/Merchandising/Product Management/Category Management or ideally similar functions. You should have in depth knowledge of the competitive marketplace, the consumer and our product along with workingknowledge of financial and operational impacts of decisions.You will have excellent problem-solving skills including advanced analytical and reasoning skills and strategic thinking capabilities. You will be confident in preparing and presenting to both retail partners and the senior UKG Team. You should have the abilityto effectively manage your own time & resources to ensure multiple priorities are balanced and managed successfully.A hybrid of home and office working is applicable to this role.