Summary The Product Manager is expected to manage the marketing of software in all areas of the product marketing. Requirements Ability to multi task in a fast-paced environment Flexibility and willingness to independently navigate areas of unfamiliarity Effective oral and written communication skills Positive and professional attitude Strong word processing and other computer skills Independent worker (i.e., takes initiative and works well with little supervision) Efficient and productive Knowledge of the entertainment software industry Japanese language skills and experience working with Japanese corporations (not required, but a plus) Playing experience and in-depth knowledge on Final Fantasy series and Kingdom Hearts series (not required, but a plus) Essential Duties and Responsibilities Manage products through their entire lifecycle from early design phase through post-launch, managing the P&L and brand plan Work closely with Dept Director/VP on brand development and management. Assist in defining product features and direction, establishing long-term goals and brand metrics for success Develop and implement strategic product position, define and set budgets with Dept Director/VP, create marketing plans, and collaborate for all other cross-functional teams to deliver a fully integrated product launch Work closely with development teams on product positioning, features, enhancements, and timelines-utilizing market research and other analysis to aid in the development of existing brands and new products Plan and develop marketing communications, creative briefs, advertising, promotional and PR programs to enhance sales of product(s). This will include consulting with management and other Square Enix subsidiaries and working directly with outside agencies in strategic planning, creative execution and media planning Provide strategic and creative direction to implement packaging, point of purchase and sales collateral design and production while working with outside vendors and internal creative services Conduct market research and data analysis to define product positioning, as well as monitor competitive activity, marketing campaign metrics, and identify consumer needs, including post-mortems on releases Manage vendor/developer relationships including communication, working with Legal and Business Development on licensing acquiring approvals, and relationship development Manage, direct and train the other members of the product management team which includes personnel at the Associate, Assistant and Coordinator level Other related duties as required Education and/or Experience Bachelor's degree (MBA preferred or equivalent experience required.) Minimum of 5-7 years of marketing consumer brands and product management at a major game publisher or a consumer product company preferred Solid training in brand and/or product marketing. (package goods a plus) Must have led the development of marketing campaign(s), including strategic development and planning, packaging, leading internal teams and working external vendors Must have vendor/agency management experience, particularly pertaining to the launch of new products Must have a detailed understanding of media (online, social, broadcast, & print), its role within a games marketing campaign, and experience with "core gamer" targeted brands Ability to lead teams to set and achieve products' goals and objectives, without direction reports. Ability to maintain strict confidentially with privileged information, work well with others, handle a high-pressure environment and make sound and timely decisions in a fast paced situations Demonstrated management and coaching skills for subordinates Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment which includes both North American functional counterparts and offshore based production and marketing personnel Strong oral and written communication and organizational skills required. Must be articulate and professional Basic understanding of game development preferred Basic understanding of channel marketing a plus Exposure to both US and international marketplaces a plus Flexibility with working hours is a plus due to time zone differences with key contacts