Assistant Product Manager

About Company:

Build Your Career with an Industry Leader

Century Martial Arts has been a trusted leader in the martial arts industry since 1976. We are proud to support martial artists, schools, and enthusiasts worldwide—and we’re looking for team members who want to grow with us.

As part of the Century team, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and professional development. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) with company match, paid holidays, and employee product discounts. We also invest in your future with tuition reimbursement, company-paid life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage. Additional perks include free onsite martial arts training and access to our onsite fitness center.

Owned and Operated by Martial Artists

At Century Martial Arts, our passion is rooted in experience. Many of our team members actively train, compete, teach, or own martial arts schools. Founder Mike Dillard, is a two-time Karate National Champion, and that same dedication to excellence continues to shape our culture today. Whether in the workplace or on the mat, we value discipline, growth, and continuous improvement.

About the Role:

The Assistant Product Manager in the manufacturing industry plays a critical role in supporting the development, launch, and lifecycle management of manufacturing products. Product management is the intersection between business, technology, and user experience. A good Product Manager must be experienced in at least one, passionate about all three, and conversant with practitioners in all.

Responsibilities:

• Analyze product performance and identify opportunities to improve or expand the product line in alignment with business goals
• Support development and execution of product strategy, roadmap, and positioning
• Conduct market, competitor, and materials research to inform product decisions and innovation
• Develop pricing recommendations and assist with sales and margin forecasts for new product launches
• Collaborate with vendors and suppliers during product development; support cost negotiations
• Manage multiple product initiatives from concept through launch, ensuring timelines and deliverables are met
• Ensure products meet quality standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., CPSIA)
• Partner cross-functionally with Engineering (R&D) to support product design, materials selection, and manufacturing feasibility
• Collaborate with Marketing to define product features, benefits, and go-to-market support materials

Competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities):

• Working knowledge of product development, materials, and basic manufacturing processes (sporting goods/apparel preferred)
• Ability to analyze product performance, market trends, and competitive landscape
• Basic financial acumen (pricing, cost, and margin understanding)
• Strong project management, organization, and time management skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, changing environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook) and familiarity with Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop (preferred)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally and influence without direct authority
• Reliable, professional, and team-oriented with a strong sense of accountability

Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 years experience in product management or a closely related role
• Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally in a team environment
• High School diploma or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Engineering, Product Development, or a related field
• Experience in manufacturing, product development, or sourcing of sporting goods, apparel, or related consumer products
• Familiarity with materials, production processes, and vendor management
• Experience working with overseas suppliers or manufacturing partners
• Understanding of product lifecycle management in a physical goods environment