Product Manager - Generator/Engine Kohler

Seeking a candidate with a Bachelor’s/Master’s degree and 4+ years of experience in marketing/product engineering with customer interaction and commercial experience – preferably with a  technical product line. This role is responsible for product specifications and planning, competitive analysis, sales forecasting, strategic pricing, P&L, product lifecycle management, and cross-functional leadership. Kohler also has an opening for a Gaseous Product Manager. Message me for more info!

Job Description:

 

The Product Manager is responsible for development, profitability, growth and maintenance of the assigned residential and light commercial product lines. This includes strategic market and financial planning, competitive analyses, product development plans, product specifications, pricing strategy, cross functional project management, cost reductions, sales forecasting and aftermarket product support. This position works closely with Design Engineering and Channel Management to improve competitive position and increase market share.

 

This position is located in Saukville, WI approximately 30 minutes north of Milwaukee.

 

HOW YOU WILL CONTRIBUTE

• Analyze, identify and aggressively target growth opportunities in worldwide residential and light commercial generator market. (Products to include gensets, and corresponding accessories)
• Conduct market research to identify key accelerators and inhibitors to market growth and end use consumers’ demand for this product.
• Develop complete product line that competitively positions Kohler in all required product nodes; while creating merchandisable differences between competitive products.
• Coordinate new product launch kits with Marketing, Communications, Technical Publications, Service, Training, etc.
• Responsible for product costing and lead cost reduction team to aggressively position Kohler as cost competitive; help maintain product leadership position in the market.
• Target key competition within the market; leverage our competitive resources/advantages to exploit competitor weaknesses and gain market share.
• Support strategic and financial planning for residential/light commercial product line.
• Develop and implement product forecasts and new product introduction strategies/tactics.
• Lead in a matrix team (cross functional) environment; supervise on-going product related teams consisting of Marketing, Engineering, Sales, Advertising, Service, Operations, and Corporate staff personnel.
• Support after market opportunities in regards to service parts, quality, and reliability.
• Provide Program Review to top management monthly.

RELATIONSHIPS AND CONTACTS

 

Supervisory Relationships:

• Reports to the Director-Marketing, Residential Light Commercial Business

Organization Relationships:

• Coordinate with Marketing Department personnel; i.e., Sales, Channel Management, Market Planning, Administration, Service, etc.
• Coordinate with Kohler Power Systems departments; e.g., Engineering, Sales, Manufacturing, HR, Marketing, Materials, Reliability and Accounting.
• Coordinate with Group and Corporate departments; e.g., Accounting, HR, Credit, Legal, Communications, etc.

External Business Relationships:

• Contact with end-users, customers and all current / potential channels of distribution.
• Attend trade shows, exhibits, seminars, and conferences.
• Contact with federal agencies, industry associations, customers, and consumer groups to obtain market information.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - WHAT YOU NEED TO QUALIFY

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or Marketing.
• 4+ years of product marketing/management and/or product engineering experience with strong project management skills and a background in strategic planning, consumer product marketing, and product line P&L.
• Strong engineering aptitude and a keen analytical mind, be strong on planning, detail and accuracy.
• Ability to communicate with all levels of management and with outside contacts.

SKILL PREFERENCES – HOW YOU CAN STAND OUT

• MBA preferred
• Generator, engine or power distribution experience preferred.

For application instruction, please contact me at kimberly.hughes@adp.com

Purchasing Manager - NPD, Kohler Global Faucets

Seeking a candidate with a Bachelor's degree (SCM, Operations, Business, Engineering), 6+ years of work experience including 2 years in purchasing and 3 years in managerial preferred. Also prefer SAP experience, professional Purchasing Certification (CPSM, ISM), negotiations background, global experience, business law/international law for intellectual property, consumer goods - fixtures, brass, zinc die-cast or casting, white goods, and strong project management skills.

Description

Manages all purchasing related functions for department. Receives and grants approval for purchases of goods or services. Analyzes changes or new issues in materials and supply to reduce costs and improve quality.  Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.  Recruit, develop and manage professional purchasing resources.  Responsibilities extend to managing departmental budgets and setting objectives for department.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

·         Strategic and operational responsibility for Business Unit supply-base network.  Accountable for preparing annual departmental budget.

·         Managing the day to day operations for strategic purchasing, new product sourcing and/or supplier quality management resources.  Interview, recommend and coordinate hiring, training, disciplining and resource utilization of all associates within department.   Identify and evaluate critical positions within the department and establish strategies to develop a strong talent pool.  Coach and develop talent utilizing documented performance management tools. 

·         Responsible for all aspects of supplier management to ensure cost-effective products and services are provided to Business Unit with consistent quality and acceptable delivery levels maintained.  Coordinate with cross-functional resources to specify strategy, identification, selection and performance of supply base.

·         Responsible for all supplier contracts to ensure that the required legal terms, conditions and cost/service components are in place to meet Business Unit requirements. 

·         Responsible for monthly reporting regarding purchasing activity and supplier quality performance.  For example, cost savings and avoidance, supplier delivery, supplier quality, days payable outstanding and percentage of raw material inventory value on a leading-edge procurement program (such as consignment, VMI, dock-to-shop).

·         Implement flexible supply network strategies to support business unit requirements.   Evaluate, recommend and champion best-in-class tools/programs to perform purchasing function.  Drive efficient and effective programs internally and externally.  For example, electronic catalog procurement, reverse auctions, supplier innovation and cost reduction idea collection, as well as, supplier collaboration through web-based portal communications, supplier EDI and quarterly business reviews.

·         Prepare business case(s) as required to support make-versus-buy decisions.

·         Develop and maintain comprehensive policy and procedures for all purchasing functions to support an environment that is ethical and free of conflict of interest, ensures compliance with internal approval schedules, and complies with all local, state and governmental laws and regulations.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Business/Technology

Understands Business Law and aware of International Law.  Able to create unique contract T&Cs for Legal Review, with working knowledge of Intellectual Property.  Involved in the acquisition and/or re-sale of Intellectual Property.   Manage complex commercial relationships, understanding potential differing needs between Internal & External customers.  Consistently exceed customer expectations by dealing with internal complexities across multi or global organization in a manner invisible to customers.

Able to construct and manage complex, sophisticated arrangements; Capable of creating pre-negotiation strategy including company BATNA.  Experienced in negotiating/managing point-to-point purchase agreements.  Able to create detailed market/industry supply & demand models, build detailed supplier should cost models, and calculate TCO including non-monetary values.  Ability to create spend category strategy, with the understanding of interdependences, risks, and impact of strategy by business unit.

Skilled in developing and managing contingency plans and risk factors with unaided assistance during the capture/creation of project scope.  Capable of managing/leading multi-location projects marshalling adequate project resources.  Demonstrates expanded domestic awareness of culture, currency, geography, political and limited international exposure.  Some experience utilizing freight forwarding/customs clearance services.  General understanding of computer network technology & B2B applications; Demonstrate methods for streamlined supplier connectivity.

Provides solution/alternatives to improvement ideas.  Takes initiative to undertake improvement opportunities that are global in scope and complexity, setting strategies for process improvements that impact the work product of the department.  Drives one company one process initiatives.  Skilled in implementing continuous improvement opportunities within the supply base. 

Interpersonal

Demonstrated professionalism in communicating and effectively maintening critical documentation.  Provides presentation opportunities for developing talent visibility with senior management.  Issues undertaken are significant in scope and complexity.  Actively supports change opportunities to maximize personal, departmental and/or company performance.  Influences relationships and proficient in market research and reacting to the speed of the industry.  Recognizes and capitalizes on team dynamics, seeking out both internal and external opportunities for a team environment.  Identitifies critical relationship building opportunities.

Managerial

Capable of leading multi-location projects and marshal adequate project resources.  Accurately documents performance for professional development and establishes criteria for levels of performance.

Participates in the development of departmental and group strategic plans and goals, and shares the vision both internally and externally.  Understanding of industry direction and influences that force change.

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Business or Engineering,  Minimum of six(6) years professional experience and two (2) years purchasing experience.  Previous SAP experience desirable.  At least three years managerial experience and Professional Purchasing Certification preferred.

For application instruction, contact: kimberly.hughes@adp.com 

Customer Care Representative, Part-Time, Kohler, Wisconsin

Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED required, 2-4 year degree preferred. 
• A minimum of two years total work experience is desired – preferably in a customer service environment.
• Previous computer experience is necessary to be successful in this position. 
• Experience in a call center environment is preferred.
• Hours of availability: Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m, ~32-36 hours per week. 

Responsibilities

• Primary duty is to answer inbound customer inquiries via multiple channels (e-mails, phone calls, chats) by performing diagnosis of products, and taking the appropriate action
• In addition to working with end-users of products, also perform advance troubleshooting and advice specification guidelines with plumbers, designers and retail, wholesale and showroom personnel
• In addition to troubleshooting, also walk end customer and trade professionals through step by step installation and/or repair of Kohler/Sterling/Robern products
• Effectively use Customer Care Center (3C) technology (i.e. customer registration software, portal, SAP, Intranet, Internet, email, phone system, scheduling software) and all other tools/resources available, including technical literature and price books
• Knowledge of at least one Kohler/Sterling/Robern products and the warranties associated with that product line
• Read and understand technical publications, diagrams and specification documents
• Track orders, provide availability and other shipping information
• Up sell Kohler products and accessories as appropriate
• Assist with implementing procedures to maximize up-time and phone coverage
• Track trends in product variations and report to engineering and quality as appropriate
• Participate in department projects as needed
• Participates in various Customer Service Support functions as needed including order block reports, credit card reports and shipping resolution

For application instruction, contact kimberly.hughes@adp.com 

Kohler Power - Sr. Service Application Specialist - Generator Service

Seeking a candidate with an electrical degree or equivalent experience and knowledge of generators, engines, or other power generation electrical power equipment and controls.

As a Sr. Service Application Specialist with Kohler Power Systems, this is your unique opportunity to set your mark and live on the leading edge. Under the supervision of the Supervisor-Service Switchgear Systems, the Sr. Service Application Specialist provides leadership in field service which includes troubleshooting, technical information assistance, application data, warranty processing assistance, and distributor/dealer training in a back-up role.

 

HOW YOU WILL CONTRIBUTE

• Provide informative and technical advice to distributors and customers by telephone, correspondence, and field trips in regard to proper generator maintenance, repair, operation, and training.
• Provide informative and technical support via telephone and email to distributors, dealers, Kohler switchgear technicians and occasionally end customers, on Kohler product ranging from the early vintage to present day product lines. This service is necessary for customer satisfaction and repeated sales.
• Aid and support Distributors, Dealers, and OEM’s and other accounts with applications, installations, and technical support on products including :
  • •Industrial Generator Sets including units manufactured by Kohler and SDMO
  • •Automatic Transfer Switches including Kohler manufactured and non Kohler
  • manufactured product sold by Kohler including Zenith, Westinghouse, Thompson Technologies, and Square D products.
  • •Residential/Commercial Generator Sets
  • •Mobile Generator Sets including Auxiliary Power Units including knowledge of HVAC systems
  • •Marine Generator Sets
  • •Generator Set Accessories including enclosures and fuel tanks manufactured by 3rd party suppliers
  • •AC Generators manufactured by other companies and used by Kohler including Marathon Electric, Leroy Somer, Kato Engineering
  • •Engineered Special Products
  • •Setup, Configuration, and troubleshooting of Kohler and Industry based network communication systems and devices such as but not limited to:
    • Monitor II,
    • Monitor III
    • RSA 1000
    • ATS Annunciator
    • Modbus communications
    • Ethernet communications
    • Modbus/Ethernet converters
    • Kbus/Modbus converters
    • Remote Digital Gauges
    • Power Scan wireless monitor
    • Device installer software
    • Surveyor
    • MPAC Setup software
    • Site Tech Software
    • OnCue

• Basic knowledge of network communications is required of: terminology, protocols, standards, internet models, system wiring, and network configuration.
• Utilize knowledge of engine communications (J1939 & CAN Bus, Smartcraft) as well as engine manufactures monitoring software and associated diagnostic tools to properly assist in troubleshooting engine issues, but not limited to the following software/hardware products:
  • • E-Controls (General Motors, Doosan)
  • • John Deere Service Advisor
  • • Vodia (Volvo)
  • • Woodward Tool Kit (Mitsubishi)
  • • PST (DPG governor controls)
  • • KPST (Kohler brand labeled governor controls)
  • • DDDL (Detroit Diesel)
  • • Diasys (MTU, MDEC/ADEC)
• Successfully provide extended Project Management for long term customer service issues including administration of assigned field rework programs, field updates, and unique customer issues.
• Technical support for all products manufactured in Kohler and support for Kohler and SDMO offices worldwide:
  • Support warranty administrator by reviewing warranty claims to determine their validity and to determine if the claim cost is valid. Contact customer direct to discuss the claim and drive to a common resolution.
  • Support Supplier Recovery process by inspection of product to determining if returned components, were due to application issues, installation issues, customer misuse or if the component failed and should go back to the supplier for recovery. Direct contact with suppliers to provide information on the application and failure mode.
  • Respond to letters e-mails, and other forms of communications regarding Kohler generator product issues, complaints, parts identification, wiring diagram requests, etc.
  • Investigate and evaluate field complaints on product issues being reported by customers and owners. Provide documentation to various departments for corrective action. Assist Engineering and quality in answering the field complaints driving resolutions to complaints. By providing input and ideas to solve the field problem. These solutions are then implemented into production.
  • Coordinate the return of generator products and components from the field for further evaluation to determine the cause of failure and the validity of warranty claims
  • Provide support to Sales Administration Department for the application, service, and troubleshooting of our products.
  • Provide support to the Aftermarket Parts Department with regard to interpretation of parts needed for repair and the identification of parts requested by customers.
  • Provide support services for all Kohler Power Systems Group offices worldwide including EMEA, Singapore, and China. Provide backup technical support for worldwide customers when local offices are not available
• Travel as needed worldwide to support customers and owners in the event that field issues cannot be resolved by local support.
• Attend meetings regarding field issues, field complaints, and new product development.
• Work with our Technical Publications Department to review technical manuals on existing and new product. Review of operators manuals, service manuals, wiring diagram manuals, installation manuals, TT sheets, and service bulletins. Using our technical knowledge we advise the technical publications staff as to changes that should be made to the manuals and alert them to mistakes that are in current manuals.
• Under the direction of the Supervisor – Switchgear Service, provide testing support for in house switch gear line up testing.
• Service Specialists are required to provide pager / telephone support, during factory and holiday shutdowns.

RELATIONSHIPS AND CONTACTS

Supervisory Relationships:

• Reports to Supervisor-Service Switchgear Systems

Organizational Relationships:

• Frequent contact with Generator Production, Sales, and Inspection Departments to solve service problems and improve product quality.
• Frequent contact with the Technical Publications Department to review and obtain service literature.
• Frequent contact with Sales Administration staff to provide technical assistance.
• Frequent contact with Parts Marketing staff to determine service needs, stocking codes, identification, and supersession.
• Frequent contact with Engineering Department to keep informed on new developments.
• Frequent contact by phone and conversation with our Area Sales Managers and Account Executives providing technical assistance in all areas pertaining to service.

External Business Relationships:

• Daily contact with distributors and dealers by phone and correspondence.
• Frequent contact with original equipment manufacturers by phone and
• correspondence.
• Frequent contact with individual customers by phone and correspondence.
• Moderate personal contact with dealers, distributors, and OEM accounts to train their service personnel and discuss service and warranty problems.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - WHAT YOU NEED TO QUALIFY

• Associate’s Degree in Electromechanical Technology or related field or equivalent experience.
• A thorough understanding of generators, engines, and related controls is necessary.
• 5+ years experience with experience in operation of ATS, gensets, or other electric power distribution equipment.

SKILL PREFERENCES – HOW YOU CAN STAND OUT

• Some knowledge of electronics is desirable.

For application instruction contact kimberly.hughes@adp.com 

Kohler - Sr. Manager, Social Activation and Analytics

Seeking candidate with Bachelor's/Master's degree and extensive experience in digital strategy, marketing, social media, analysis, metrics, and team management.

The Sr. Manager, Social Activation and Analytics is a creative, strategic thinker with a passion for digital and social media, the evolution of the interiors landscape, and the evolving way that people consider their home. At Kohler Co., you will sit in the center of an industry that is in the middle of its digital evolution and lead a team of social analysts to establish Kohler Co. as a best in industry social media marketer.

 

This role will be responsible for building a social strategy and framework for each of Kohler Company’s business groups that enables social activity, diligent listening, quick and nimble response, and observable and actionable insights.  Day to day work will be centered on delivering relevant and actionable social brand strategies and social campaign activations to each business, while managing and scaling Kohler Co’s social “command center” within the global Communications organization; ultimately bringing all of Kohler Co. a social organization that drives innovative and exciting ideas to market and delivers measurable and impactful results to Kohler Co.

 

 

HOW YOU WILL CONTRIBUTE:

• Develop and apply a global social strategy and architecture to support and drive increased customer engagement, brand advocacy, and campaign activation across earned, owned, and paid social.
• Synthesize information from internal teams into an overarching strategy, working closely with business digital, channel, and product marketing organizations, legal, and larger communications teams.
• Oversee the creation and scale of a real time ‘social news room/data center’ and leverage data and analytics to enhance understanding of various social communities and conversations, measure engagement and recommend actions.
• Determine metrics of success and assess effectiveness of social marketing initiatives and investments; influence investment decision makers with formal recommendations and internal networking.
• Define the voice of Kohler Co. and each business group and ensure that it meets the needs of our target audiences.
• Determine resourcing solutions to enable ongoing social media monitoring, real time content management and event coverage.
• Continuously experiment and innovate with original and disruptive ways to leverage social activities that generate buzz, brand, and product visibility.
• Educate colleagues regarding the inclusion of social media procedures into the company’s culture, products, and services.
• Keep abreast of industry trends and competitive strategies to identify potential challenges and opportunities in the short and long term.
• Work closely with market research team on customer, competitive, and industry tracking as it relates to marketing strategy and as a function of social oversight and listening tools.

 

 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - WHAT YOU NEED TO QUALIFY

• Bachelor’s Degree required; Masters/MBA preferred.
• 10+ years of experience in digital strategy & social media within a marketing organization, leading agency, or leading media/social technology organization.
• Significant experience in digital marketing & social media technology, strategy, and execution.
• Experience with social listening tools, social management platforms, and digital media technologies.
• At least 5 years of team management and staff leadership.
• Familiarity with and ability to capably review qualitative and quantitative research.
• Proven ability to interact with people at all levels of an organization, fostering strong cross-functional teamwork and results.
• Strategic thinking ability with balanced analytical and creative approach digital.
• Experience successfully bringing together people from different disciplines (internally and externally) to achieve desired outcomes. 
• Understanding of multiple communications channels and their role in brand marketing.
• High-level proficiency in MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook.

For application instruction contact: kimberly.hughes@adp.com 

Sales Manager - The American Club - Kohler - Luxury hotel, 5 star, 5 diamond, golf resort

Seeking a candidate with 3+ years in hospitality/hotel sales, incentive house/3rd party planner (Maritz), prefer a Bachelor’s degree and experience with luxury property/golf resort.

Reporting to the Director of Sales – Destination Kohler, the Sales Manager is dedicated to maintain a focused sales effort to maximize group business (typically defined as 12 room nights or more per night with conference space requirements) in achieving proposed occupancy and financial goals for The American Club. This position is responsible for promoting and representing The American Club in a sales capacity for group business.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Active and participative member of group sales team. Working within guidelines to promote team and individual productivity and growth.
2. Achieve or exceed group room night / revenue goals as outlined in the approved financial plan.
3. Achieve or exceed individual room night / revenue goals as determined by Director- Sales, Destination Kohler.
4. Manage assigned sales territories.
5. Produce targeted sales action plans on a quarterly and annual basis for assigned market segments.
6. Achieve and maintain exceptional knowledge of all Kohler hospitality businesses: history, business operations etc.
7. Conduct tours of hospitality businesses for qualified clients.
8. Develop and maintain Key Accounts within assigned market segments and promote repeat group bookings.
9. Utilize all hospitality resources responsibly.
10. Provide consistent and timely delivery of services to clients and assure group satisfaction.
11. Organize assigned event(s) (Fam trip, offsite promotion etc.) complete with timeline for completion while maintaining approved budget.
12. Provide detailed client information maintained in client management system, Delphi.
13. Active participation in the Manager On Duty program.
14. Handle duties as assigned by Director-Sales, Destination Kohler.
15. Attend industry trade shows as mutually determined with DOS.
16. Active participation in local membership organizations for all outside sales representatives.

OFFICE HOURS
8:00 am – 6:00 pm Monday through Friday Outside sales representative required to cover Kohler office once per week.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS AND SKILL PREFERENCE
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum three years of hotel sales experience required, preferably within a luxury property and/or golf resort.
• Effective oral & written communication skills, excellent follow through, and an ability to multi-task.
• Excellent listening, communication and presentation abilities.
• Computer literate.
• Must possess a valid drivers license

Contact kimberly.hughes@adp.com for application information!

Global Category Manager - Kohler, WI

Seeking a candidate with 6+ years in category/commodities and 2+ years in purchasing with global/international multi-site, multi-product experience. Bachelor's or Master's Degree required.

Responsible for financial and operational performance within specific spend categories.  Position involves purchasing and negotiating materials, equipment, and/or services across multiple Kohler Co. business units.  Accountable for all supplier selection decisions within categories. Prepares and evaluates supplier quotations and services to determine most competitive solution based upon a total cost of ownership.  Familiar with a variety of purchasing concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of complicated procurement tasks.  Conducts multi-functional supplier performance management reviews.  Responsible for setting performance objectives and strategies within assign categories.  A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected.  Typically manages a team of purchasing associates.

 

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

 

·         Manage the design and implementation of category strategies to attain year over year material cost reduction (PPV/MPV), material quality/delivery improvements and inventory reduction targets through the use of appropriate supply chain tools.

 

·         Lead the strategic sourcing process of team formation, research, evaluation, and structure. To include RFQ development, quotation reviews (traditional and on-line reverse auctions), supplier/contract negotiations and supplier development.  Lead sourcing meetings with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing etc. to reach consensus on sourcing strategy.

 

·         Own the supplier relationship for the key suppliers in designated spend category while leading negotiations with suppliers to deliver stated objectives. 

 

·         Maintain a working knowledge of world-class supply chain processes to ensure that existing processes are targeted to attain excellence versus industry benchmarks.  Lead best cost country sourcing for the appropriate sub-categories for year over year net cost reductions.  Lead the supply base in implementation of eCommerce tools to automate transactions, bring flexibility and transparency to the supply chain.

 

·         Work closely with strategic and preferred suppliers to identify and resource productivity/cost down initiatives through the use of VA/VE tools.

 

·         Work with Supplier Quality and Engineering to develop new suppliers as required.  Drive leading edge procurement by working closely with the supply base and the material planning group to actively integrate the suppliers into Kohler plants through the appropriate use of Kanbans, VMI or related tools.

 

·         Assist in mentoring and training buyers in best practices.

 

 

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

 

Business/Technology

 

Understand Legal Interpretation of contract T&Cs and proficient in working with Domestic & International Law.  Involved in the acquisition and/or re-sale of Intellectual Property.  Understanding potential differing needs between Internal & External customers.  Consistently exceed customer expectations by dealing with internal complexities across multi or global organization in a manner invisible to customers.

 

Ability to construct and manage complex, sophisticated commercial arrangements; Capable of creating pre-negotiation strategy including company BATNA.  Experienced in negotiating/managing point-to-point purchase agreements.  Ability to construct value stream (profit margin) industry maps, utilize advanced financial techniques (commodity hedging),  and build market comparable cost analysis.  Skilled in multi-tier supply chain analysis.  Ability to create spend level strategy, understanding of interdependences, risks, and impact of strategy by business unit.  Able to develop & implement contingency planning processes.

 

Proficient in managing/leading multi-location/global projects with expanded domestic awareness of culture, currency, geography, political and limited international exposure.  Experience utilizing freight forwarding/customs clearance services.  General understanding of computer network technology & B2B applications.  Demonstrated methods for streamlined supplier connectivity.

 

Provides solution/alternatives to improvement ideas.  Takes initiative to undertake improvement opportunities that are global in scope and complexity, setting strategies for process improvements that impact the work product of the department.  Drives one company one process initiatives.  Skilled in implementing continuous improvement opportunities within the supply base. 

 

Interpersonal

 

Communicates departmental vision and goals, creating atmosphere of open communication.  Provides presentation opportunities for developing talent visibility with senior management.  Issues undertaken are significant in scope and complexity.  Actively supports change opportunities to maximize personal, departmental and/or company performance.  Influences relationships, proficient in market research and capable of reacting to the speed of the industry.  Recognizes and capitalizes on team dynamics, seeking out both internal and external opportunities for a team environment.  Identitifies critical relationship building opportunities.

 

Managerial

 

Required to lead multi-location projects and marshal adequate project resources.  Accurately documents performance for professional development and establishes criteria for levels of performance.

Participates in the development of departmental and group strategic plans and goals, and shares the vision both internally and externally.  Understanding of industry direction and influences that force change.

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

           

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, Materials Management or related field is required.  A Master’s Degree in Business or a Technical field is preferred.  Minimum of six (6) years professional work experience with two (2) years purchasing experience in global manufacturing companies with increasing responsibilities in a multi-site, multi-product, company is required. International experience and previous global travel required. 

Contact me for application instruction: kimberly.hughes@adp.com 

Manager - Development and Reliability Labs - Kohler Power Systems

Seeking a candidate with a Bachelor’s degree from an ABET accredited program and 5+ years of product testing experience including 3+ years of supervisory experience. Experience in data acquisition systems, electronics test validation, and managing timelines and budgets is ideal.

 As a Manager – Development and Reliability Labs with Kohler Power Systems, this is your unique opportunity to set your mark and live on the leading edge. The Manager – Development and Reliability Labs manages the daily operations of the generator development lab, reliability lab, and electronics lab. This includes supervision and oversight of the technicians and scheduling work. The lab operation in Mosel is a template for other global KPS facilities including India, CZ, and Singapore.

HOW YOU WILL CONTRIBUTE

• Ensure safe operations in the labs by performing quarterly safety reviews, ensuring completion of established safety training for lab associates and lab visitors, and developing new safety procedures as necessary, and maintaining all safety records.
• Oversee maintenance of testing equipment and facilities ensuring the preventative maintenance is completed and providing a safe working environment for associates.
• Ensure DVPR and Reliability test plans for generator sets, electronic components, and generator systems (ATS, RSA, generator sets, and controllers) are well written and executed to plan.
• Ensure that measured data in labs are accurate and tested according to ISO, UL, and other third party standards.
• Schedule lab resources with multiple horizons (weekly, monthly, and annually) ensuring that customer needs are met.
• Develop and maintain a system to estimate testing duration for standard tests.
• Continuously improve standard tests with targeted improvement projects. Ensure projects are executed on time and within cost targets.
• Develop and manage KPS-Mosel lab budget.
• Develop and maintain 5 year plan for global laboratory facilities ensuring that lab can support future testing requirements having appropriate capacity, capabilities, and testing efficiency to meet the needs of the business.
• Performance manage supervisor, two genset based test engineers, and lead electronics test engineer.

RELATIONSHIPS AND CONTACTS

Supervisory Relationships:

• Reports to Manager-Analytical Modeling and Testing Labs
• Direct management of Supervisor: Test Labs that oversees 10 hourly technicians
• Direct manager of two generator test engineers
• Direct manager of lead electronics test engineer that oversees 4 electronics tests engineers
• Total size of organization is 18 people including second level

Organization Relationships:

• Daily contact with lab supervisor, technicians, and test engineers.
• Daily contact with internal customers (genset and electronics engineers)
• Frequent contact with personnel from the Product Design, Quality, and Reliability engineering staff.
• Frequent contact with other KPS and SDMO lead test engineers.
• Occasional contact with personnel from Marketing, Sales, and Manufacturing Engineering.

External Business Relationships:

• Contact with suppliers, contractors, and end customers

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS - WHAT YOU NEED TO QUALIFY

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical or Mechanical) from an ABET accredited program
• 3+ years of supervisory experience
• 5+ years of experience in product testing
• Experience with data acquisition systems
• Solid understanding of electronics and test methods for validation of hardware and software functionality.

SKILL PREFERENCES – HOW YOU CAN STAND OUT

• Working knowledge of engines, generators, and fuel systems.

For application instruction contact me at kimberly.hughes@adp.com

LinkedIn Geographical Territories

I'm always trying to find more information on how LinkedIn names/categorizes geographic areas. I've worked a lot on targeting folks in Wisconsin, so I thought I'd share a string of areas in the state. What geographic territories have you honed in on or are you looking into?

"Greater Milwaukee Area" OR "Madison, Wisconsin Area" OR "Sheboygan, Wisconsin Area" OR "Oshkosh, Wisconsin" OR "Green Bay, Wisconsin Area" OR “Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin” OR "Appleton, Wisconsin" OR "Wausau, Wisconsin Area" OR "Janesville, Wisconsin" OR "Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin" OR "Middleton, Wisconsin" OR "Stoughton, Wisconsin" OR "Eau Claire, Wisconsin Area" OR "Beaver Dam, Wisconsin" OR "Beloit, Wisconsin" OR "La Crosse, Wisconsin" OR "Kaukauna, Wisconsin" OR "Janesville/Beloit, Wisconsin" OR “Hales Corners, Wisconsin”

Senior Market Analyst - E Commerce Kohler, WI

Seeking a candidate with a Bachelor’s degree and 3+ years of experience in digital marketing/ecommerce with consumer products and strong Microsoft Excel skills as well as customer facing skills. This role will engage and drive third-party sales of Kohler and Sterling plumbing brands with e-tailers. Seeking an analytical individual that will own the digital marketing reporting and analysis and contribute to a quality customer experience.

Under limited supervision from the Channel Manager - E-Commerce, the Senior Market Analyst is responsible for conducting comprehensive and detailed marketing analysis and persuasively making recommendations based on those results. This would involve developing and compiling layers of in-depth analytics to help drive business in the online sales channel. In addition, this associate will engage and drive sales with third-party e-tailers selling KOHLER & STERLING plumbing products online. This position will be highly customer oriented with the expectation be effective in communicating with customers on a very regular basis.

The ideal candidate will have exceptional people skills with the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and written. Candidates must possess a keen analytical mind, be strong on planning, detail and accuracy and be a creative thinker. This is a highly visible role within the Kohler Company in a growth channel that has dedicated resources for continued expansion. This role will give the right candidate an opportunity to grow the scope of the role.

Join KOHLER in a Market Analyst role and have the opportunity to take a new role and make it your own! You will have a direct impact on the business by utilizing analysis to create and enhance e-commerce opportunities for the KOHLER brand.

HOW YOU WILL CONTRIBUTE
• Provide expert business and marketing analysis in all phases of marketing processes by providing reports and recommendations that capture a clear picture of the competitive environment and market share.
• Liaise between KOHLER Authorized E-Tailers and Kohler associates, including account management, promotional planning and sales reporting.
• Develop, analyze, and maintain statistics obtained from trade publications, government reports, competitive price sheets, visits to distributors and trade shows, etc. showing trends and conditions based on sales.
• Maintain continuous awareness of competitive products, pricing, performance, and market share including trends in product design, architecture, interiors, living environments, etc. for the purpose of recommending product continuance or modifications, market potential, etc.
• Recommend revision to existing or new programs based upon thorough studies to obtain justification for their introduction. Utilize Branch, Sales Administration, Sales and Service, Engineering, Market Research, etc. personnel to assist in justification.
• Analyze performance of online sales channel in terms of profitability, volume contribution, and its potential, and recommend marketing programs to grow sales in this channel.
• Collaborate with internal teams to drive product assortment, and content development and syndication with Kohler authorized E-Tailers.
• Work with distributor partners who supply E-Tailers with new product pricing and availability.
• Maintain continuous contact with end customers, sales, and distributors to keep Kohler apprised of market conditions.
• Maintain awareness of legislation, trade group agreements, federal, state and local codes, etc. that may affect sale of products online and recommend the necessary action.
• Compile information and statistics on various subjects that affect the marketing or products, general economic conditions, and changing buying patterns. Prepare summaries of relevant data for distribution to appropriate managers.
• Participate and assist the managers in planning, developing, and implementing trade shows, conventions, and meetings.
• Actively participate in seminars, professional organization meetings, trade shows, etc. to keep abreast of new marketing concepts or other developments germane to the function.
• Demonstrate appropriate level of competency in the following areas: Drive Continuous Improvement, Set High Standards of Performance, Leadership, Teamwork, Communication, Business Acumen, Management of Self, Management/Development of Others, Focus on the End Customer, and Build Trust.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor’s degree is required.
• Minimum of three years experience in marketing with progressively more responsibility and a track record of results is required. Candidates with an MBA and no professional marketing experience may be considered in lieu of required work experience.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS
• Degree in marketing, business or related degree is preferred.
• Experience with e-commerce is strongly preferred.
• Advanced knowledge of Excel.

SKILL PREFERENCES – HOW YOU CAN STAND OUT
• Maintain a high level of accountability and ability to execute complex projects
• Display initiative to remove obstacles.
• Demonstrate high-level presentation/communication skills.
• Work across functional areas to see the “big picture.”
• Set strong examples through work product, attitude, technical skills, and project management tools/philosophies used.
• Function as a leader in all facets of analyst position.
• Understand channels of distribution and own communication to the customer.


For application instruction please contact kimberly.hughes@adp.com