Product Line Manager Soft Armor

Summary: We are seeking a strategic, detail-oriented, and hands‑on Product Line Manager to lead the lifecycle management and production performance of our soft armor product lines. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of the personal protection and body armor industry, outstanding cross‑functional leadership, and the ability to balance technical, customer, and business requirements. This position plays a key role in driving innovation, ensuring product quality, overseeing production processes, and delivering on both customer expectations and business goals.

• Oversee the full product lifecycle from concept to end‑of‑life for soft armor lines.
• Define and execute product strategies that align with customer needs, market demands, and organizational objectives.
• Collaborate with R&D, Sales, Marketing, and Engineering to develop and refine product roadmaps.
• Maintain deep knowledge of industry standards (e.g., NIJ) and ensure compliance across all products.

• Engage in both pre‑production (planning) and production (control and supervision) stages.
• Lead cross‑functional efforts to ensure efficient, high‑quality production output.
• Address real‑time production issues and bottlenecks, making rapid decisions to minimize downtime and meet delivery goals.
• Ensure that customer orders are completed on time, within budget, and meet or exceed quality standards.

• Liaise between Product Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, Sales, and Customer Support to align strategy and execution.
• Communicate production goals, changes, and process improvements clearly across teams.
• Support the integration of customer feedback into continuous product and process improvements.

• Collect, analyze, and report on production and performance data.
• Deliver insights and updates to factory leadership and customers to ensure transparency and alignment.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process enhancements to improve efficiency, cost‑effectiveness, and quality.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Kaizen.
• Identify and execute on opportunities to streamline workflows, reduce waste, and increase productivity.
• Ensure that all production strategies align with broader company policies, operational goals, and compliance requirements.

• Product Lifecycle Management:
  Oversee the full lifecycle of bulletproof vest products, from concept and development through production, launch, and ongoing support.
• Market Research:
  Conduct market analysis to understand customer needs, industry trends, and competitor activities, and use insights to shape product strategies.
• Cross‑Functional Leadership:
  Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, sales, marketing, and customer support teams to align product development and delivery goals.
• Customer Focus:
  Engage with law enforcement and military stakeholders to gather feedback, understand operational challenges, and ensure products meet end‑user needs.
• Operational Oversight:
  Collaborate with manufacturing teams to establish process flows, production timelines, and capacity plans. Provide support to address production bottlenecks and maintain efficiency.
• Compliance and Standards:
  Ensure all products comply with applicable safety, quality, and regulatory standards, working closely with quality assurance and compliance teams.
• Data Analysis:
  Track product performance metrics, customer satisfaction, and market trends, and use data to guide product improvements and innovation.
• Decision‑Making:
  Make informed decisions regarding product features, enhancements, trade‑offs, and resource allocation to maximize product value and profitability.
• Cost Management:
  Work with finance and manufacturing teams to ensure products are developed and produced within budget while maintaining high‑quality standards.
• Product Launch:
  Drive go‑to‑market strategies, ensuring successful product launches in collaboration with marketing and sales teams.

• Bachelor's degree…