Job Description

About Us

Smead is a multi-faceted brand always looking to offer products to enhance everyday life. Established in 1906, Smead has been the industry leader in file manufacturing in the US for the last 100 years. From the invention of the bandless envelope to premium filing solutions, Smead's continued commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation led to the transformational acquisition of trend-forward stationery and office products company U Brands. As a multi-brand company, the distinct style and passion allow for a diversified product portfolio. The brands collectively span 13 categories: presentation boards, writing, desk organization, fashion filing, dry erase markers, office tools, and other accessories. Smead and U Brands remain rooted in their continued commitment to employees, customers, and community while delivering best-in-class office supplies for every home or office space.

Compensation: $27.46 - $43.44/hr

Office Location: Laguna Hills, CA

Job Type: Full-time, Non-exempt

Schedule: M-Th 8am-5:30pm & Fri 8am-3pm

Worksite: Hybrid

• 3 days in office in Laguna Hills, CA (Tues-Thurs)
• 2 days work from home (Mon & Fri)

Summary

The Assistant Product Manager works collaboratively to develop new design-focused products within their assigned portfolio. They are responsible for managing the portfolio from inception through end of life. This individual will contribute to new product ideation and innovation, manufacturing specifications, sourcing, costing, marketing strategies, and commercialization. They will work with a cross-functional team of sales, design engineers, and manufacturing sites, bringing new products and innovations to life. This position ensures all quality standards are met, executes projects on time and within budget, and identifies expansion opportunities into white space.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Manage the assigned product portfolio — maintain and manage product attributes, address changes or issues with existing items, and support all product documentation processes including mix management, product details, costing, and product life cycle.
• Serve as the primary product contact for assigned product lines for customers and sales teams.
• Support product development and manage research initiatives to establish fact-based business and marketing strategies. Develop a thorough understanding of the market, customer dynamics, product design, trends, end-user preferences, as well as key purchase drivers.
• Coordinate product design, development, and production, and maintain the product development roadmap while working under the direction of the Senior Product Manager to develop requirements for current and future products by conducting market research, collecting and analyzing market data, trends, customer attitudes and behaviors, as well as the competitive landscape.
• Source, quote, negotiate, and provide costing analysis for new developments with factory partners in Asia.
• Assist in managing multiple projects, factories, product categories, and initiatives while maintaining prioritization and staying on time and within budget.
• Coordinate meeting materials for customer product collaboration and business reviews. This includes, but is not limited to, product samples, display materials, labels, research results, and PowerPoint presentations.
• Work on special assignments as they arise.

Competencies:

• Strong multitasking and prioritization skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• High energy, positive attitude, and process-oriented mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Proven experience supporting highly technical, user-focused product development.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Education/Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution required; an MBA or technical undergraduate degree preferred.
• 2–4 years of product management experience.

Benefits:

• 401k + Company Contribution
• Paid Time Off + Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance and Wellness programs
• Medical, Dental, Vison, Life Insurance, Critical Illness benefits
• Ongoing opportunities for professional growth and development
• Hybrid work schedule - Work from home Mondays and Fridays
• Fun, fast-paced office environment Tuesday-Thursday
• Company sponsored lunch from a local restaurant every Wednesday
• A company culture that supports work/life balance
• "Summer hours" all year long (M-Th 8am-5:30pm & Fri 8am-3pm)

An individual in this position must be able to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. The above list reflects the general details necessary to describe the principle and essential functions of the position and shall not be construed as the only duties that may be assigned for the position.

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