Michael J. Brandt
abnwo4@r.postjobfree.com
Lyons, OH 43533
Summary
An astute, analytical and resourceful professional with 10 years
experience in marketing and product management, I immediately
contribute and succeed in new environments. Well suited for
positions that require bold leadership, strong communication and
effective negotiation skills, I am seeking a career opportunity that
draws upon my experience, utilizes my skill set, challenges my
abilities and rewards success.
Experience
Product Manager
May 2007 – January 2009
MASCO Builder Cabinet Group, Adrian, MI
As a key member of the management team, I was instrumental
in the achievement of 650 million invoice sales dollars of Merillat
branded cabinetry products through the effective oversight of
project strategy and objectives. I regularly directed plant
management and key personnel through the development of
design and manufacturing specifications, product testing
protocol, engineering support initiatives, and other instrumental
launch tasks. Effectively planning strategy, I developed the
product road, analyzed the competitive set, and established
project milestones. As the principle NPI leader, I utilized Stage
Gate to tenaciously drive the New Product Introduction process
through the daily management of cross-functional teams. I
qualified and lead product innovation efforts and facilitated
accurate new product communication to all levels of the
organization and externally as required. Additional
responsibilities included frequent participation in sales
presentations, customer meetings, trade shows and
management of marketing budgets and performance metrics as
required.
Channels included builders and dealers/distributors.
Product Manager
January 2005 – May 2007
Newell Rubbermaid - Calphalon Corporation, Perrysburg, OH
As Product Manager I achieved 40 million invoice sales dollars of
gourmet branded cookware products by; driving the New Product
Development process through utilization of cross-functional
teams, planning new product strategy and developing the
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product road, analyzing the competitive set and targeting project
milestones. Lead decisions surrounding preliminary project
financials with a key focus on margin objectives. I was
instrumental in leading role in all stages of the product
development process including the front end, concept
development, design and specification, engineering,
implementation, and sales & audit stages. I assisted in sales
presentations, customer meetings and trade shows, and
managed merchandising and trade budgets.
Channels included:
Big Box – Bed Bath & Beyond, Linen’s and Things
Department – Macy’s, May Co., Dillard’s, William Sonoma, Saks
Gourmet – Le Gourmet Chef, Chef Central
E Commerce – Amazon, Chef’s Catalogue
Marketing Manager, Creative Production & Procurement
September 2000 – January 2005
Newell Rubbermaid - Calphalon Corporation, Perrysburg, OH
Production Responsibilities included the prioritization of
scheduling, production, assembly and distribution of printed
materials including marketing collateral, internal communications
and product packaging. Collectively managing a $2MM Creative
budget, I provided project oversight of freelance copywriters,
photographers, graphic designers and local agencies. I acted as
liaison between all internal departments and the Creative Group.
I worked daily with trade publications, newspapers, magazines
and other print media to meet insertion and stitch deadlines and
assisted in the organization of corporate and community events.
I supervised a graphic design staff and the Fulfillment
Coordinator, and managed literature distribution nationwide.
Procurement Responsibilities required working cross-functionally
with Product and Trade Managers to negotiated marketing
contracts that met company objectives and budget commitments.
I evaluated product mix, quality, costs and capabilities and
provided recommendations based on thorough comparisons. I
sought standard term compliance; investigated rebate incentives,
volume discounts and other opportunities that maximized
productivity while practicing corporate purchasing protocol and
driving contract results.
Promotions
January 2001, December 2002, March 2004
Account Executive
November 1998 – September 2000
Reynolds & Reynolds, Toledo, OH
Accomplishments:
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100% quota, $300,000 new accounts
Business Development Manager
February 1997 - November 1998
Hulcher Services Inc.
Accomplishments
100% quota, $2 million total sales
Account Executive
April 1992 - February 1997
Standard Register Company, Holland, OH
Accomplishments
100+ Club, $500,000 new accounts
Education
Bachelor of Arts
University of Toledo, 1992
Communications
Career Training
Situational Leadership I & II, Intro to Lean Manufacturing, Sexual
Harassment, Basic Finance, The Profit Specialist, Leadership
Essentials, AMA continuing education courses
References available upon request
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