Technical Product Manager - Refrigeration & HVAC

About the role

An established supplier of refrigeration, HVAC and air-conditioning products is looking for a Technical Product Manager in Selby, Johannesburg. The role takes ownership of the product portfolio, focusing on product evaluation, development and continuous improvement. It is technical, analytical and commercially focused, working closely with Procurement, Engineering, Sales and the branch network.

Key responsibilities

• Evaluate, manage and continuously improve the refrigeration, HVAC and air-conditioning product portfolio
• Identify new products, improvements to existing ranges and emerging technologies
• Evaluate suppliers and equipment on technical performance, quality, suitability and commercial viability
• Analyse product costs, selling prices, margins and market competitiveness
• Spot gaps, overlaps and obsolete equipment in the product range
• Advise the national branch network and work with Procurement on product lifecycles, stock suitability and alternatives
• Collaborate with Engineering on product testing and performance evaluations
• Train staff on product knowledge and support product selection by interpreting technical specifications

Required profile

• Matric and a formal technical qualification in Refrigeration, HVAC or Mechanical Engineering
• Extensive practical experience with refrigeration, HVAC and air-conditioning equipment
• Strong understanding of compressors, condensing units, evaporators, refrigerants, controls and related systems
• Understanding of product costing, pricing, margins and commercial viability
• Knowledge of inventory management and product lifecycles
• Previous product management, technical management or supplier evaluation experience is highly advantageous

Required skills

• Interpreting technical specifications and equipment performance data
• SAP Business One or a similar ERP system (highly advantageous)
• International sourcing and supplier relationships (highly advantageous)