This blog is the introduction to a blog series.
It briefly desribes the role of a product manager in the Chemical Industry from a point of experience. It may help future product manager to better understand what they can expect from their role in the organization and current product managers to challenge their interpretation of the role.
Future blogs elaborate on key activities and competences related with this role
The following thoughts apply to the Product Manager (PM) in a business unit of the chemical industry comprehending the functions production, marketing, product management, sales, R&D, tech service, product stewardship.
Within the unit, the PM has to acquire for the product(s) under her/his responsibilities the deepest comprehensive expertise. It starts from the product development and market introduction. It continues along the chain from raw materials or precursors, through the production process, product specifications including ecotox profile, till supply to customers and application. Eventually the PM is the function, which has to deal – and to manage- the highest number of interfaces within the unit. Furthermore, she/he is accountable for the product(s) Profit & Loss, triggers investments, issues the budget. Consequently the PM is mostly the preferred contact by the unit head (along with controlling). Therefore, the PM skills are placed on two levels: deep knowledge about the product(s) and processes in the unit, as well as a high communication ability.
For these reasons and being the “product owner”, the PM plays a centre role in the unit. This can lead to a dominant position versus other functions, especially in situations like product shortages, product range consolidation. Through the clear definition of all functions and tasks allocation, it should be well defined and implemented, how far the PM power should go. Experience shows that a balanced power weighting between the different functions, especially between PM and Marketing, is more suitable for the success of the unit.
The PM her/himself should be able to stay in balance between the product(s) – to which she/he has a high identification.- and the market.