Project Manager – Research, Design and Development (Hybrid)

Company Description

At Lakeshore, we create innovative learning materials and world-class guest experiences for teachers, parents and children. Since 1954, we’ve grown into a global community—with a thriving e-commerce business, multiple catalogs, 60+ retail stores, a peerless national sales force, plus international offices that support our preeminent supply chain division. But today we’re working better, smarter and faster than ever—and setting our sights even higher. We’re building an infrastructure designed for scalability, embracing data-driven decision-making and using technology to improve efficiency and ensure the best tools for the best work. Most importantly, we continue to invest in a diverse team of inquisitive top talent who fuel each other’s passions and curiosity, take risks, try new things, and believe that every new day brings opportunities for growth

Job Description

In a time of unprecedented expansion, we are seeking a Project Manager to join our Product Development team. In this role, you will oversee and ensure implementation of product development items from concept through launch. The position also requires leading a cross-functional team to deliver projects on time across a variety of product types and complexities. You will also be accountable for building project plans, aligning partners, managing the timeline and driving team accountability. Applicants should have sharp project management and leadership skills, demonstrated by the ability to influence and lead within a rapidly evolving environment. The ideal applicant is experienced and well-grounded in fundamental principles as they pertain to managing product development. 

A day on the job looks like this: 

• Apply project management principles including analyzing performance and driving continuous improvement opportunities 
• Lead cross-functional project teams (which may include Research & Development, Engineering, HK Master Planning, Commercial Planning or Regulatory) from concept through launch  
• Clearly communicate key milestones, critical path deliverables and project expectations to project team members, while also identifying and creating mitigation plans for project risks 
• Drive accountability among cross-functional team members, ensuring an approval readiness and priority for concept and design approval meetings 
• Provide regular project status updates highlighting project risks to the senior management team 
• Utilize effective communication skills to appropriately inform various levels of the organization and team members in a timely manner 
• Facilitate discussions and meetings to enable project teams to resolve conflicts and make timely decisions 

Qualifications

Got the skills and experience? Here’s what we’re looking for: 

• Bachelor’s degree in business or equivalent experience required; master’s degree preferred 
• Minimum 2 years of experience in any of the following areas required: product management, new product planning, commercial planning or project engineering 
• Experience in the new product introduction process, sales and operations planning, and the product development process 
• Experience in MS Excel required, with an emphasis on an ability to build and present reports 
• Experience in communication through remote mediums, such as video conferences, emails and text communication 
• Must be comfortable with systems and data analysis 
• Experience in change management and with Kaizen principles a plus 
• Experience using Workfront a plus 
• PMP or CAPM Certification a plus 

Additional Information

And here’s our end of the bargain! 

• Salary: $67,000-$85,000 with an annual bonus of up to 10%
• Paid leave for new parents to support work/life balance and family bonding
• Excellent medical/dental and vision coverage—EPO, PPO and HSA
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution (because you will retire someday)
• Flexible benefits—choose what you like, ignore the rest
• Generous employee discount on products that make you smarter
• Casual dress…and we really mean it

At Lakeshore, we know our diversity makes us stronger, and when everyone feels included and valued, we all win. We strive to embrace our differences and create an intentionally diverse and inclusive community that is representative of the teachers, families and children we serve.

We know we couldn’t do the extraordinary things we’re doing without the people on our team. Thanks to the passion and enthusiasm of this spectacular group, Lakeshore is more than a great place to work—it’s a great experience to be part of. Day in and day out, we give everything we’ve got to create products that instill a sense of wonder and foster a true lo