Product Manager

Product ManagerDate: Jul 26, 2026 Location(s): Milwaukee, WI, US, 53224 Company: A. O. Smith Corporation Business Unit: NAWT Workplace Setting: HybridA.O. Smith is a global leader applying innovative technologies and energy-efficient solutions to products manufactured and marketed worldwide. The company is one of the world's leading manufacturers of residential and commercial water heating equipment and boilers, as well as a manufacturer of water treatment products for residential and light commercial applications. A. O. Smith is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with approximately 12,000 employees at operations in the United States, Canada, China, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.Primary FunctionThe Product Manager is responsible for the product planning and execution for assigned products throughout the lifecycle, including: gathering and prioritizing product and customer requirements, defining the product vision, and working closely with engineering, sales, marketing and support to ensure revenue and customer satisfaction goals are met.ResponsibilitiesManage assigned product life cycle from concept through development, introduction, cost optimization and obsolescence.Conduct market research by ongoing visits to retail and wholesale customers, sales groups, job sites, contractors, service agents and trade showsDrive specifications and solutions across cross-functional development teams through to implementation.Conduct competitive studies to identify product strengths and weaknessesInnovator: Extend core product lines and increase profitabilityIdentify and terminate products that are no longer neededDevelop new productsIdentify the need for and conduct research to determine future products or servicesBusiness Partner: Educate Marketing Communications/outside agencies and serve as SME in development of the go-to-market strategyWork within Product Engineering's Stage Gate process and develop Multi-Generational Product Plans (MGPPs) for their productsWith Finance, develop business plan/case for products including sales forecasts, target pricing, and cost targetsHelp profitably grow market share by providing Sales with extensive product information, competitive information and appropriate trainingKeep Customer Service up-to-date on new products and requirements affecting the order entry processProvide Distribution with relevant information to move products through our system efficiently and in good conditionEnsure service training and support materials are developed, available, and distributed to the Service group at time of launch; gather information on products in the field that can be used for improvements or to identify quality concerns before they become major issuesCollaborate with Procurement on new component options, volume forecasts and cost reduction opportunitiesOther responsibilities may be assigned as needed.QualificationsBachelor's degree, preferably in business or a related field 3+ years of related experienceAdditional Qualifications: Prior experience in plumbing, HVAC, or a related field, in retail and/or wholesale channels Core competencies include analytical ability & problem solving, strong verbal & written communication, technical aptitude, portfolio management, and working knowledge of Microsoft Office Successful track record of adding profitability to a product line using data and consumer insights Strong interpersonal skills and decision-making ability Effective and professional communication and organization skills. Superior negotiation skillsWe Offer Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits plans which include medical and dental insurance, company-sponsored life insurance, retirement security savings plan, short- and long-term disability programs and tuition assistance.