Associate Product Manager -CPG/Retail

ABOUT US:

Upper Canada Soap is an industry leader with over 50 years and an innovator in the world of bath, beauty, and wellness. Our head office is located in Canada, with other offices in the UK and US. 

We are seeking a passionate and driven Associate Product Manager to join our dynamic team and contribute to the growth of our company. If you're a highly creative individual, with great multi-tasking and prioritizing skills, then this is the opportunity you've been waiting for. The sky is the limit, and we want fearless, like-minded people to soar with us!

YOUR ROLE IN THE COMPANY:

As our Associate Product Manager, you will be at the heart of our product development and marketing activities. You will play a vital role in supporting the product management team in the development of a wide variety of products. This role is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, eager to learn, and passionate about building products that meet customer needs. Your proactive approach and creativity will be key to our success.

AS WELL AS:

• Contribute to the product ideation process, turning creative concepts into tangible products.

• Conduct research to understand customer needs, market trends, and competitive products.

• Analyze data to support product decisions and identify opportunities for product improvement or new product development.

• Assist in defining product requirements and features based on market research, customer feedback, and company goals.

• Assist in planning and executing product launches, including coordinating with marketing and sales teams.

• Support the management of key customer relationships, helping to maintain their satisfaction and loyalty.

• Oversee sample shipments, ensuring our customers and sales representatives are impressed with the quality of our offerings.

• Communicate product updates and features to internal teams and external customers.

• Enhance your writing abilities by proofreading and crafting engaging copy.

• Learn and excel in sourcing, both domestically and internationally, identifying top partners to help bring our products to market.

• Learn and gain expertise in cost and margin analysis, playing a key role in our financial success.

• Monitor production and shipping processes, ensuring efficient operations and on-time deliveries.

• Stay up to date with industry trends, new technologies, and best practices in product management.

• Perform additional tasks as needed, related to the role.  

• Create visually compelling and informative presentations.

• Manage supplier quoting and negotiations; develop clear, detailed costing sheets with strong Excel proficiency to accurately analyze margins, pricing structures, and overall costs.

• Maintain strong attention to detail during sample reviews and quotation analysis.

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the product development process, proactively anticipating next steps and potential challenges.

• Align with the Product Management strategy and translate product direction into clear, comprehensive art briefs for the design team.

OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:

• 1-3 years of prior experience in a product or project development role, preferably in the beauty, bath, health or retail industry. • Post secondary diploma or certificate in product or project management, sales, or marketing is preferred.

• Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies.

• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint. 

• Strong multitasking skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities. 

• Quick to learn and adapt. Able to pivot work priorities to meet the dynamic demands of the business.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO SUCCEED:

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. As well as listening skills.

• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

• Great interpersonal skills. Able to professionally interact with people and work on group projects. 

• Enjoys taking on exciting challenges and seeking new opportunities. 

• Prefers working in unconventional ways or on tasks that require creativity. 

• Ability to work independently with little direction, as well as in a team environment.

• Ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Good analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• High level of integrity and excellent work ethic. 

• Passionate about beauty – prior experience or a genuine interest in the beauty industry is a plus.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT OUR OFFICES:

• High degree of computer focus for long durations.

WHY YOU’LL WANT TO JOIN OUR TEAM:  

• Health, Dental Optical and EAP Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule – in person to start. 

• Supportive team environment

• A growing industry!

Salary: $50,000 - $60,000

At Upper Canada Soap, we value the unique skills and experiences that each individual brings to our team and welcome all interested candidates to apply. We strongly encourage applications from members of equity-deserving communities, including Indigenous, Black, racialized individuals, women, people with disabilities, and those with diverse gender identities, expressions, and sexual orientations. UCS is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants upon request.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team. Please note that only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.