Senior Product Manager - Trends

About the Role

As the Senior Product Manager for our global toy business, you will drive the technical development and execution of assigned product portfolios from initial concept through to distribution. You will lead project timelines and translate business needs into highly manufacturable, cost-effective designs that align with consumer trends. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams and international partners, you will proactively ensure quality standards are met while mentoring and guiding junior product managers.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of product development from concept to market while actively leading and mentoring assigned Product Managers in all product development activities.
• Create, maintain, and update project documentation utilizing software like Smartsheet to ensure seamless communication of changes across cross-functional teams.
• Collaborate with design, sales, and brand management resources to specify new products, manage design resources, and coordinate the creation of development models and photography samples.
• Liaise cross-functionally and build licensor relationships to ensure products meet functional specifications, licensor standards, and safety requirements while advising on cost, manufacturing, and scheduling.
• Interface with key vendors and Asia-based product managers to align concept and production phases, proactively resolving communication shortfalls and scheduling regular reviews.
• Request, document, and analyze 3D model costs, unit costs, and tooling expenditures to negotiate competitive pricing, manage development budgets, and form margin-based pricing recommendations.
• Partner with Brand Management to research trends, develop competitive assessments, and build a 3-5 year strategic vision for product line evolution and expansion.
• Collaborate with Sales and Contract Manufacturing to track profitability, proactively manage inventory levels, execute effective presentations, and validate direction with international subsidiaries.

Requirements

• 7+ years of relevant product development and project management experience within a consumer goods industry.
• Proven hands-on experience working directly with plastics, materials, and complex manufacturing processes.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and G-Suite, combined with a proven track record of successfully managing long- and short-term product lifecycles.
• Exceptional planning, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to define root causes and work collaboratively to drive actionable resolutions.
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills with the proven ability to influence decision-makers and build productive relationships at all organizational levels.
• A collaborative, flexible, and growth-oriented mindset with the ability to multitask, adapt to shifting priorities, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Nice to Have

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Design, or a highly related field.
• Prior experience working specifically within the toy, baby, costume, or pets industry.
• An active Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent credentials.
• Experience managing and participating in domestic and international travel for business operations.

Benefits

• Basic medical insurance 100% company-paid for employees and their children.
• Employee basic life and AD&D insurance.
• 401(K) retirement program with Jazwares matching up to 4% of pretax or post-tax deferrals.
• Short and long-term disability.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Flexible work schedule: Monday through Thursday on-site, optional WFH on Fridays, up to 20 workdays fully remote each year.
• Time Off for vacation and sick leave.
• Opportunity to volunteer for up to 16 hours a year on community service projects through Jazwares Cares.

Pay

The base salary may vary based on experience, role tenure, performance, industry, and location. Eligibility for the annual performance incentive may apply.

About Jazwares

Jazwares, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a leading global toy manufacturer with a robust portfolio of 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™, Hello Kitty™, Star Wars™, Five Nights at Freddy’s™, Disney™, BumBumz™, and BLDR™. In addition to toys, offerings include costumes, games, and pillows. Headquartered in Plantation, Florida, Jazwares has offices worldwide and sells its products in over 100 countries.