IMG Product Concepting Lead

We are seeking a highly creative and experienced Product Concepts Lead to join our innovative team within Ford's Advanced Product Concepting team. This role requires a deep understanding of the customer and market landscape, a proven track record of generating successful product concepts, and the ability to lead and mentor junior team members.

Responsibilities:

• Lead brainstorming sessions, utilizing various ideation techniques to generate innovative and commercially viable product concepts aligned with Ford's strategic goals.
• Study and understand the market research to understand the unmet customer needs within the segment, analyze competitive landscapes, and utilize emerging trends relevant to potential product concepts.
• Develop detailed concept documents, including translating the concept into product actions, functionality, and defining the concept emotional and attitudinal.
• Continuously evaluate and refine the product concepting process based on lessons learned from past projects, industry best practices, and emerging technologies.
• Effectively communicate product concepts to senior leadership, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams through compelling presentations and clear, concise written communication.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members, fostering a collaborative and innovative team environment within Ford's EV Vehicle Programs.
• Maintain a deep understanding of industry trends, technologies, and best practices in product development and concepting.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in strategy, marketing, product concepting, product management, or a related field within the automotive industry.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, design, marketing, business). An MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
• Proven ability to generate innovative and commercially viable product concepts.
• Deep understanding of the automotive market, including competitive landscape, customer needs, and technological advancements.
• Ability to interpret data to identify opportunities that deliver market value and differentiation.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to clearly communicate a concept through storytelling to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in creating compelling concept documents and presentations.
• Experience working with global cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong understanding of the product development lifecycle, specifically within the automotive industry.
• Proficiency in design thinking methodologies.
• Strong leadership and mentorship skills.