Product & Accessory Planning Lead

Summary:

This position researches and analyzes product information to identify specification gaps and assists in efficient specification management. It also identifies opportunities to enhance the value chain of new vehicle sales through conversion and accessorizing, aligning with overall operational strategies and coordinating business integration with other functions of AAM.

Responsibilities:

• Perform periodic analysis of the existing product offering vs competitors to pinpoint the positioning of product specifications.
• Identify any regulatory requirements or regulations that may have an impact on our product lineup.
• Generate timely Product Intelligence Reports.
• Identify potential future products and specifications for future product planning.
• Monitor automotive innovation progress to detect potential technological requirements and provide updates on the advancement of connected services in the automotive sector.
• Conduct periodic surveys with customers to gauge the acceptance level of product specifications & identify areas of improvement.
• Analyze the product specification and application lineup to identify any specification gaps that could be addressed through local accessorizing or conversion options.
• Identify the sources that meet the Toyota Standards.
• Coordinate with relevant business units for optimal procurement and execution processes, including IT for SAP Business Process, accessory merchandising, and ensuring SOPs for proper fitment with After Sales/LVD.
• Execute the launch plans.
• Ensure optimal inventory and capacity planning with business units for fitment.
• Monitor market dynamics to capture VOC (Voice of the Customer) promptly.
• Conduct value analysis to optimize costs through product and process enhancements.
• Develop an annual revenue plan for the business.                           
• Present findings through reports and presentations to the Head of Department (HOD)

Requirements:

• Bachelors in a related field of study
• Min. 8+ years of experience in product planning, product management, or a related role
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.