Brand Chief Engineer - Pontoons

The Brand Chief Engineer is responsible for leading the strategic direction, product development, and execution of brand engineering initiatives. This role integrates product planning, project management, and engineering expertise to drive innovation, ensure profitability, and maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace. The Brand Chief Engineer serves as the central leader across cross-functional teams, ensuring seamless collaboration between design engineering, marketing, sales, production, manufacturing, and aftermarket divisions. This position plays a critical role in defining brand vision, overseeing the product lifecycle, and optimizing product performance to align with White River Marine Group’s strategic objectives.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Strategic Leadership & Product Development

• Develop and execute multi-year product and technology roadmaps to drive brand growth and innovation.

• Lead competitive analysis and market research to identify trends, opportunities, and threats.

• Define product vision, ensuring alignment with market needs and WRMG business goals.

• Guide product planning, development, and execution in collaboration with design engineering, project teams, and cross-functional stakeholders.

• Manage product lifecycle strategies, ensuring effective product launches, enhancements, and sunsetting decisions.

Engineering & Technical Oversight

• Lead engineering teams in designing, testing, and validating new product features and improvements.

• Ensure technical feasibility, manufacturability, and compliance with industry standards and regulations.

• Collaborate with quality, supply chain, production, and manufacturing teams to enhance product reliability and production efficiency.

• Provide expert guidance on complex engineering challenges and problem-solving initiatives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Brand Strategy

• Partner with marketing, sales, production, and manufacturing teams to develop and execute brand strategies, promotional campaigns, and customer engagement initiatives.

• Align product positioning and messaging to enhance brand perception and competitive differentiation.

• Gather market intelligence, incorporating customer feedback into product and brand strategies.

• Serve as the primary liaison between internal teams, dealers, and end customers to ensure successful brand execution.

Financial & Business Performance Management

• Monitor financial performance, ensuring revenue and profit goals are met.

• Analyze sales, market trends, and customer data to inform strategic decisions.

• Develop and implement pricing strategies in line with brand objectives and market conditions.

• Prepare financial forecasts, return on investment analyses, and product-related reports.

• ALL OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED

EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum Degree Required:    Bachelor's Degree

• Preferred Degree:  Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Business, Marketing, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

• Years of experience:  10+ years of experience in product brand management, engineering leadership, or project management within the marine or outdoor industry.

• Strong background in product development, technical design, and cross-functional leadership.

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

  Ongoing verification of driving eligibility will be conducted to ensure compliance with company and regulatory standards.

• Must be at least 21 years old to qualify for this position

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITY:

• Deep understanding of the marine and boating industry, including trends, competitors, and customer needs.

• Strong technical knowledge of boat engineering, manufacturing, and product design principles.

• Excellent financial and business acumen with experience managing product profitability.

• Highly effective leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and drive results in a fast-paced environment.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and engineering tools.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make informed business decisions.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Moderate travel required (up to 25%) during peak periods, including trade shows, dealer visits, and manufacturing site support.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Regularly sits and does computer work.

Occasionally walks and stands.

Seldom/Never lifts up to 50 lbs.

INDEPENDENT JUDGEMENT:

Develops objectives and general policies and procedures for a specific program or functional area of responsibility within general scope of established operational goals and plans. Day-to-day work and decisions do not require direction or review by immediate supervisor. End results are reviewed by supervisor.