Product Manager, IR Optics / Safety & Security Applications (Optical Defense)

Jenoptik seeks a product manager in Jena for IR Optics in Safety & Security applications (Optical Defense). The role covers strategic portfolio development, product roadmaps, business plans and leadership of product managers and multidisciplinary teams.

• Strategically develop and improve the Safety & Security portfolio throughout the product lifecycle, including developing new profitable product segments internationally.
• Take responsibility for product managers assigned to the Safety & Security business field.
• Design and implement product roadmaps and strategically develop key accounts together with sales.
• Create and implement business plans for existing and new products, market and competitor analyses, and market entry strategies.
• Prepare strategic presentations for senior management.
• Act as the business and technical link between product management and adjacent departments, such as purchasing, development, manufacturing, quality and sales, including cross-functional leadership of multidisciplinary teams.
• Ensure customer satisfaction by continuously improving pilot and series products, taking responsibility for necessary changes and supporting production ramp-ups in the IR Optics portfolio.
• Provide advice and technically analyse customer enquiries and requirements.

• A completed master's degree and ideally a doctorate in physics, engineering, laser and optical technologies, aerospace engineering or an equivalent qualification.
• Extensive professional experience as a key account manager, engineer, business development professional or strategic product manager in OEM solutions is desirable.
• Several years of experience leading teams through cross-functional coordination or direct line management.
• Strong analytical, conceptual and strategic skills.
• Strong ability to work across departments, paired with persuasive communication and a clear customer focus.
• A responsible, assertive personality with a highly structured approach to work.
• German and English suitable for business negotiations, and willingness to travel nationally and internationally.