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Product Manager – Classifieds

Job Summary
Product managers are responsible for guiding the development, branding and product life cycle of MI’s products. It is the responsibility of the product manager to be the expert on their individual product or product lines. Product managers talk to affiliates, prioritize strategic priorities and communicate these needs to the product development managers in the development department through functional specifications for their products.

Specifically, the Classifieds Product Manager will guide the transition into new Classified Advertising products and manage the strategic direction of its existence. Additional responsibilities relating to the classified space also falls under this position.

Major Responsibilities/Activities

• Conduct SWOT analysis of the market for the product/service line and make recommendations on the future direction and product strategy and roadmap based on multiple stakeholder input of our products based on the assessment of our audience and affiliates’ needs and market trends.
• Develop Use Case studies, MRDs and PRDs with prioritized features and corresponding justification on new as well as existing products and services to lead to enhancements or guide a build-or-buy analysis and assessment of third party products.
• Bridge the knowledge gap between developers, affiliates and other internal stakeholders by building consensus. Develop into a subject matter expert within responsible channels and act as a leader within the company.
• Responsible for setting and maintaining the expectations of our affiliates through active communication concerning priorities and development progress on our products. Educate and champion the practical use of our products.
• Works with the documentation specialist to create product documentation and marketing materials as required. Conducts product demonstrations to assist the external sales staff in the sale of our products and services.

Qualifications:
Education: College degree in Marketing, Advertising, Business or similar field is required or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the necessary background and skills to accomplish responsibilities.

Ability to cope with fast-paced and constantly changing environments is needed. Must have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with ability to bridge communication gaps between technical and business stakeholders. Strong knowledge of web based technologies and applications, including programming languages’ and relational databases. Excellent customer service skills are required.

Experience:

• 6 + years experience in on-line product management or related field required; preferably within a classifieds, order-entry or ecommerce based product.
• 2+ years experience in requirements gathering and document development.
• Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams without formal authority.