Associate Product Operations Specialist

GENERAL PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

The Associate Product Operations Specialist is responsible for supporting operational excellence within the Product Group (Product Management, Product Operations, & Technical Services). This role blends various supportive responsibilities that range from process ownership, operational support, and system administration to solution design, process optimization, and project management to support cross-functional teams in delivering high-impact product initiatives. The Specialist owns and supports programs, processes, and systems. The role works closely with Product Management, Technical Services, R&D, Marketing, Customer Service, and other business partners.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as the primary owner and administrator for assigned Product Group programs, processes, and tracking systems.

• Manage day-to-day operations for assigned programs, ensuring requests, approvals, documentation, and workflows are completed accurately and on time.

• Maintain and support operational processes such as but not limited to: Item Creation (PIFs), PIM (Product Information Management, Sample Program, Field Trials, Material Returns, Product Exits, UPCs, Policies & Procedures. [EV1] [WR2] [WR3]

• Monitor program performance, identify bottlenecks or issues, and recommend opportunities for improvement.

• Maintain process documentation, standard operating procedures, forms, workflows, reports, dashboards, and knowledge repositories.

• Provide support to stakeholders by answering questions, resolving process-related issues, and ensuring adherence to established procedures.

• Coordinate activities between Product Management, Technical Services, R&D, Marketing, Customer Service, Manufacturing, and other business partners.

• Collect, validate, maintain, and report on program data to support decision-making and operational visibility.

• Support implementation, administration, and continuous improvement of business systems including Smartsheet, SharePoint, SAP, SafetyCulture, Scribe, and other approved technologies.

• Identify opportunities to automate, standardize, and streamline operational processes and workflows.

• Assist with implementation of new processes, tools, and operational initiatives.

• Facilitate communication and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure alignment and program success.

• Ensure compliance with established procedures, documentation standards, governance requirements, and risk management practices.

• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of best practices across the Product Group.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

None required. It would be advantageous to have any of the following:

• Intro to BPM (Business Process Management)

QUALIFICATIONS

• Self-starter who can work independently, take direction when needed, anticipate work needs, organize workflow and follow through with minimal oversight in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio, Teams)
• Experience with or willingness to learn Smartsheet, SAP, and workflow design tools
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Experience or interest in process improvement, product operations, or project management.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to support projects and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to actively listen, ask questions, and collaborate with team members and stakeholders.
• Organizational Skills: Able to manage multiple tasks, prioritize work, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Technical Aptitude: Basic understanding of product lifecycle processes, business systems, and data management concepts, with a willingness to learn new tools and technologies.
• Execution Focus: Supports project and process activities by following established procedures and completing assigned responsibilities accurately.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Uses analytical thinking and available data to identify issues, recommend solutions, and escalate concerns when appropriate.
• Adaptability: Demonstrates flexibility and a willingness to learn new processes, systems, and responsibilities.
• Integrity: Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and reliability.
• Relationship Building: Develops positive working relationships and contributes to a collaborative team environment.
• Enthusiasm: Seeks opportunities to learn, improve processes, and add value.