Product Manager Structures

Product Manager

Freeman is a global leader in events, on a mission to redefine live for a new era. With a data-driven approach and the industry's largest network of experts, Freeman's insights shape exhibitions, exhibits, and events that drive audiences to action. The integrated full-service solutions leverage a 97-year legacy in event management as well as new technologies to deliver moments that matter.

We're seeking an experienced Product Manager to lead the development and implementation of innovative modular products nationwide. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in product development, modular systems, and products with integrated electrical and lighting components. You will lead innovation initiatives for the entire company and identify and manage internal and external resources, while reducing the costs of development and ownership. You will be responsible for supporting product category managers who manage products such as cabinets, lighting, retail fixtures and furniture. This position will support our Global Supply Chain team. It is eligible to work a hybrid schedule, generally requiring work in-office and / or show-site 2-3 days per week. This position is based out of our Adler office in Dallas, TX.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of new structures products, ensuring they meet internal and external customer requirements, regulatory standards, and safety guidelines
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including safety, detailing, national operations, quality, rigging, sales, design, and third-party suppliers and manufacturers to ensure product requirements are met and be able to value engineer as necessary
• Partner with engineering to ensure products meet all safety standards, including electrical & UI standards
• Support competitive, innovative product programs to reduce costs and increase both revenue and profitability and support our merchandising and e-commerce strategies
• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of product development, testing, and regulatory compliance
• Responsible for the entire product lifecycle including phase out and disposal planning
• Organize and participate in cross-functional design-thinking workshops
• Develop prototypes ranging from mock-ups through 3D models
• Generate product requirements including product features, pricing, sustainability, and containerization specifications
• Develop minimum construction standards for design and manufacturability and create standardization across the Freeman network
• Test and refine product and containerization concepts. Troubleshoot production samples and make necessary changes to improve per branch feedback
• Collaborate with procurement on domestic and global partnership maintenance and development, utilizing trade show and complimentary industry resources
• Work with regulatory bodies to ensure all required certifications are issued and assigned per industry requirements
• Provide cost estimates and financial analysis for all products in development
• Support product claims and protect intellectual property through collaboration with legal department
• Partner with Operations Enablement to create and implement product training processes across the enterprise - Growth, Design and Delivery
• Identify areas for process improvement and implement changes to enhance product development efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance

Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree from an accredited 4 year college or university with 5-10 years related product development experience or equivalent experience is required. Trade show, retail or hospitality industry experience preferred. Strong understanding of product development processes, including design, testing, and validation. Knowledge of lean product development principles. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite. Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to communicate with all levels in the organization. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Travel Requirements

Travel up to 25%

What We Offer

Freeman provides benefits that aim to empower our people and their families to thrive mentally, physically, and financially. These are a handful of the types of programs and benefits our full-time people may be eligible for. There may be some variances in specific benefits across regions.

Diversity Commitment : At Freeman, our commitment to diversity and inclusion is helping us to create not only a great place to work, but also an environment where our employees, our customers and our communities around the world can reach their goals and connect with each other. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status and other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.