Robert Kurka
Madison, Wisconsin
***********@*****.***
https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-kurka-09283017?trk=hp-identity-name
SUMMARY
Product Management Leader specializing in new product development and knowledge in project management. Proven global experience in leading cross-functional teams with strong communication skills. Also experience in brand management, life cycle management, collateral creation, and presentation execution.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Spectrum Brands, Middleton, WI 2015 to 2016
Spectrum Brands Holdings is a global diversified consumer products company who’s brand portfolio consists of Rayovac, Remington, Black + Decker, Dingo, Repel, Armor All, and many other brands.
Associate Product Marketing Manager
Managed projects, including packaging and product changes, through the new product development system. Managed the brand as well as produced and approved creative marketing materials through the content management system. Developed partnerships and promotions for the Rayovac brand.
Successfully managed multiple projects in the new product development system, meeting both time and financial goals
Successfully partnered with Disney, Twentieth Century Fox and American Red Cross to enhance brand image and increase sales though promotions
Milwaukee Tool 2011 to 2015
Milwaukee Tool, a subsidiary of Techtronic Industries CO. Ltd., is an industry leader in the manufacturing and marketing of heavy-duty power tools and accessories.
Assistant Product Manager, Brookfield, WI 2012 to 2015
Led cross-functional international teams to develop and launch new products into the marketplace. Managed multiple product categories such as concrete drilling, wood boarding, and steel drilling. Managed multiple projects at a time with engineering and other departments. Traveled internationally to work with suppliers and key personnel to develop new products, improve existing products, and explore new testing opportunities.
Created and implemented multiple projects to grow categories 14% in a year
Launched over 70 new power tool accessories successfully into the market
Successfully managed and implemented project timelines for 5 categories for cohesion
Robert Kurka
Page Two
Product Coordinator, Brookfield, WI 2011 to 2012
Life cycled product categories by implementing package and artwork changes with international suppliers. Created marketing collateral and presentations for internal and external stake holders.
Successfully managed the life cycle of 3 products, meeting budget and timeline goals, that grew sales 30% year over year
Created sales presentations and other marketing guides to grow sales 11% in a complex and overlooked category
Territory Representative, Houston, TX 2011
Pitched and sold products to independent businesses and national accounts. Provided product knowledge and gave presentations to sales personnel and end users.
Managed over $1.5 million in sales of both independent and national accounts
Increased overall sales by 34% in accounts managed
Field Sales Representative, Houston, TX 2010 to 2011
Implemented planned merchandising operations for a national chain. Executed creative merchandising strategies and displays at multiple locations. Built upon and grew relationships with store managers, department heads, and store employees to improve the brand image and grow sales.
Managed over $4 million in sales within territory
Increased sales by 18% in retail stores
Additional Experience 2005 to 2009
Ed’s Express, Student Supervisor, Madison, WI
oSupervised over 150 student employees at university housing food services. Provided support to both employees and customers.
Marken International, Assembler, New Berlin, WI
oWorked with a team to pull, produce, and ship customer orders with deadlines.
Greenridge Inc., Landscaper, New Berlin, WI
oProvided landscape maintenance and services.
EDUCATION
BBA, International Business and Marketing, University of Wisconsin – Madison (GPA: 3.5)
Studied abroad at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology