Product Line Manager

Nordson Test & Inspection, a global leader in world-class metrology equipment and inspection systems, is seeking a highly motivated and talented Product Line Manager Automated X-Ray Metrology to join our team in Aylesbury, United Kingdom. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we are looking for candidates who share that same commitment.

Summary of the role

As Product Line Manager, you will manage the product lifecycle to ensure that it meets the requirements of customers, conduct Voice of Customer activities with key global customers in our focus markets, and set the development of the product roadmap. You will create the product development strategy and work with multiple teams involved in the process to deliver a product that will satisfy the customer base. You will work with other department heads such as the Sales teams, Applications Engineering, Customer Service Representatives, Development Engineering and Operations. You will establish the key features of a product and use market trends and customer buying habits data to create specifications and prototypes. You will also develop strategies for positioning and pricing products, as well as the strategy for end-of-life and simplification.

You will be responsible for setting the direction, leading and managing the Product Line globally to maximise sales revenue and profitability, in alignment with the financial and strategic plans for the Test & Inspection business. As a key member of the cross-functional Product Line team, you will drive excellence in all aspects of the business through implementation and application of the Nordson NBS Next and ASCEND strategies.

You will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment, where your ideas and contributions will be valued and respected.

Role and Responsibilities

Product Line Roadmap

• Assume ownership of the Product Roadmap for the Automatic X-Ray Semiconductor Metrology Product Line, with market input from customers, Sales and Applications, technical input from Engineering, and manufacturability input from Operations.
• In close collaboration with the Regional Sales teams, and backed up with market intelligence, develop a product and feature roadmap which meets future customer needs and delivers revenue growth through the development of Top New Products.
• In close collaboration with the Engineering team, specify the product requirements for development, adjusting and refining them as needed in line with market requirements, and identify and incorporate new technology innovations into long-term Product Roadmaps.
• In close collaboration with the Operations Director and team, identify and mitigate risks related to manufacturing, sourcing and quality for the roll-out of Top New Products on the Product Roadmap.
• Manage and communicate relevant market intelligence, ideas, competitive activity and other relevant information to Engineering, Regional Sales, Service and Applications teams. Using input from the Regional Sales teams, identify competitor products and systems that should be benchmarked against our own products to help identify how we differentiate against them.
• Together with the Regional Service Managers for service and spares, manage the product lifecycle to maximise aftermarket revenue, while ensuring the ongoing rationalisation and simplification of the product portfolio.

Strategic Product Marketing Contribution

• Support the Business Development Director in creating annual and strategic marketing plans which are suitable for the Product Line, and develop and present business proposals for emerging markets and applications for Test & Inspection products.
• Develop collateral and content for Regional Sales teams, such as sales presentations, brochures, application notes, specification data sheets, web information and other promotional activities, either individually or with the Marketing team.
• Support product training for Regional Sales teams, internal staff and representatives.

Product Line Commercials

• Assume commercial responsibility for the Product Line, and specifically Top New Products revenue and gross margin.
• On an annual basis, support the development of our five-year strategic plan, identifying market and business opportunities and strategic direction for the Product Line with regard to Product Innovation.
• Define the price lists for the Product Line, regularly reviewing and optimising them in line with the Gross Margin commitments for the business. Ensure that pricing is optimised regionally and all price lists are current and accurate at all times.
• Where appropriate, work with the other Product Line Managers to maximise sales opportunities across all product lines, and support the service and spares organisation in ensuring that revenues are maximised.
• Provide accurate monthly and quarterly forecasts for the Product Line, and specifically Top New Products.

Skills and Qualifications

• Professional engineering and/or business qualifications; Master’s and/or PhD degree preferred.
• A technical background, preferably in electronics, and experience or knowledge of the semiconductor, electronics or capital-equipment market.
• Strong business development and product management experience, including strategic ownership of product roadmaps.
• A breadth of business and technical knowledge covering engineering, including technology innovation, product specification, system architecture and product development, combined with commercial understanding.
• Experience applying Voice of Customer methodologies to identify unmet customer requirements and translate them into product strategy, requirements and roadmaps.
• Experience with new product development and Stage-Gate or equivalent launch processes, together with the ability to develop business cases and apply financial and commercial judgement.
• Excellent influencing and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage a range of cross-functional stakeholders and create alignment without direct authority.

Travel

Travel 30–40% to trade shows, key accounts, and other relevant Test & Inspection sites both in the UK and overseas.

Benefits

We offer a flexible work schedule, a comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for growth and development. Our benefits do further include:

• Employee Incentive Plan
• Pension scheme
• Possibility to join our Healthcare scheme Aviva, including optical and dental support
• 25 vacation days
• Free parking

About Nordson Test & Inspection

Nordson Test & Inspection manufactures world-class metrology equipment and inspection systems to ensure electronic products are built to meet the highest standards. We use X-ray inspection, acoustic imaging, and optical inspection technologies to create testing systems that enable the identification of even the smallest defects at high resolution. By joining our team today, you will help us bring innovative ideas to life.

Nordson Test & Inspection is a global team that works to create machines and systems that improve the manufacturing process for a wide range of industries, including electronics, aerospace, automotive, energy, lighting, and medical. We offer a supportive culture in a growing and dynamic work environment. Whether you're just beginning your career or you're a seasoned professional, there's a place for you to belong at Nordson Test & Inspection. We offer hourly and salary positions in production, maintenance, customer service, quality, engineering, and more. We actively invest in our teams to help you build your skillsets and advance your career.

Our recruitment process is designed to identify the best qualified candidates for the role, and we are committed to ensuring a fair and equitable interview process. We are looking for candidates who have a passion for inclusion, diversity and equity, and the ability to contribute to a culture where all employees feel valued, respected, and included.

Interested?

If you are interested in being a part of a team that is dedicated to providing advanced inspection and testing solutions and creating an inclusive and diverse workplace, please apply online with your CV.

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