Overview

Product development managers oversee product control, strategy and distribution throughout sales networks.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Develop new products through an existing range of key accounts and customer contacts
• Identify and develop new technology that will potentially add value to the company
• Assess the profitability of new products through market research and competitive analysis
• Work closely with other business units to trial products and plan field trials
• Assist in positioning product performance and present at company meetings as well as commercialization meetings
• Manage global development programs including proper design and execution of activities across multiple areas according to approved budgets and timelines
• Train and support sales staff
• Develop label use recommendations
• Manage relationships with production personnel, stakeholders, trial staff and brand managers
• Analyze and communicate results and recommendation to upper management
• Assist with customer service calls as necessary

What education and training is required?

In the agricultural industry, a master’s or a doctorate degree in your desired field is typically required. For example, you may need a degree in plant pathology to work as a product development manager for a seed or crop services company.

To pursue a career as a Product Development Manager / Demand Planner:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, a focus on sciences, computer and business courses, and mathematics.

Where can I work?

Product development managers work for medium to large-scale agricultural companies and organizations as well as some governmental agencies. 

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a product development manager will be great over the next five years. 

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• Product Development and Management Association
• National Society of Professional Engineers
• Institute of Food Technology
• Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• American Society of Plant Biology