Manager of Automotive Product Applications

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

WHAT TO EXPECT

As an innovation leader, we look for ambitious, forward-thinking, open-minded and well-rounded individuals to join our global team. Located in our downtown Denver office, you will be responsible for managing the product application engineering commercialization process, including the proper application and selection of automotive/heavy duty/other-motive products for both Gates Corporation and Gates Catalog Services clients.

• You will be responsible for new product set-up and commercialization.
• Maintain Gates as a market leader and maximize Gates's profits.
• You'll be responsible for serving as an expert technical consultant in developing product lines & company technical tactics & strategic initiatives.
• You and your team provide technical support and manage the Automotive Aftermarket hotline.

Key responsibilities:

• Manager/Management: Incumbent leads a team as a working manager and the point person for Application Engineering activities. You will be responsible for defining and executing strategic objectives, evaluations, and allocations of work, and will help develop team members. The incumbent is responsible for forecasting and controlling departmental budgets. Lastly, the manager will be a part of the Product Data Services Leadership team and help define strategy and future process improvements.
• Application Process: The incumbent will build strong relationships with the Automotive Technician community at end-user customers, vehicle dealerships, automotive technician industry initiatives, and application data vendors globally. You will define and implement new ways of collecting and processing data to improve departmental efficiency. Processed & analyzed information to collaborate with stakeholders; and ensure the quality of the process.
• New Product Commercialization: You will support product management in developing existing and new products for Gates, including recommendations and testing. The incumbent will guide new product set-up, creating the best solution products and kits for future applications. Direct support & process development through a disciplined approach focusing on opportunity expansion.
• Technical Customer Service: Incumbent will manage the Technical Customer Service department which staffs the National Automotive Hot Line as well as customer technical e-mail box, website product sources & Gates Forum Blog. Statistics are tracked to lead new training or process changes that will improve the education of the requestors. The incumbent recognizes the need for rapid response to clients/customers.
• Training and Communication: You will participate in key training programs, committees & workshops as well as outside strategic partner organizations (i.e. MAP, ASE) participation. Training & educational opportunities include Professional Technician Forums & websites, technician test writing workshops, videos, etc. Responsibility aligns key initiatives with organizational goals while converting strategies into tactical plans to drive end-market growth.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

ABOUT YOU

• 4+ years of automotive aftermarket experience.
• ASE Certification is required with actual work experience in the automotive repair industry.
• BS/BA in Business or Engineering a plus.

• Works well under pressure, effectively handles conflict, and demonstrates flexibility in work style to accommodate changing priorities and fixed deadlines.
• Self-motivated, capable of seeking quality solutions and continuously focusing on process improvements, while keeping the needs of the business in the forefront.
• Ability to convert big-picture strategies into tactical plans, focus on expansion opportunities, be creative in reaching solutions, and grow the Gates brand.
• Effective communication skills both written and oral.
• Strong communicator, globally and situational adaptable to drive change, effectively builds relationships, and demonstrates professional poise.
• A high degree of mechanical aptitude is required.
• Strong people skills, able to adapt to the audience, and flexible in delivery.

• Experience in customer service and dealing directly with customers is preferred.
• Microsoft Office experience is required (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

• Must be a technical leader capable of planning, organizing, and directing projects in a professional and logical manner.
• Achieves results while building a disciplined approach using metrics & sustained objective focus.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Extremely organized, able to juggle multiple priorities, and flexible to accommodate changing business needs and fixed deadlines.
• Strong team leader; proactively able to step in to support other team members as needed and share knowledge to allow cross-training of all functions, building collaborative relationships.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills: understanding of appropriate escalation points.
• Takes responsibility for personal development.
• Experience with Automotive, Heavy Duty (on/off-road), and/or other vehicle applications a must. Must be capable of understanding vehicle part blueprints/documentation provided by OEMs.

• Approximately 75% of the work environment is in an office setting; 25% is working with vehicles.
• Excited to work in the office with great teammates
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship

PAY & BENEFITS

• Full-Time
• Salary Range: $82,440 - $100,000
• Relocation is not provided
• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance, and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
• Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued
• 401(k): 3% company contribution and an additional 3% company match
• Tuition Reimbursement

WHY GATES?

Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.

While we expect the best, we also want to give you the best. That's why at Gates we provide an environment where people can succeed from our policy of 'Dress for your Day' (yes - that means you can wear jeans), health club reimbursement, to your ownership of your work/life balance and more. Visit www.gates.com/careers to learn more.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

At Gates, we believe that we are better together. Proximity has been important to our success over the years as there are critical items that are simply better when done together. One of those critical items is efficient collaboration. We cannot underestimate the power of informal conversations and connecting face-to-face with our coworkers.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

Gates is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.

For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role.

ARE YOU DRIVEN BY POSSIBILITY?