Category manager

At Allegion, we help people live, work, and visit safely.

With more than 30 brands sold worldwide, we specialize in security – everything from residential and commercial locks, door closers and exit devices, steel doors and frames, to access control, workforce productivity systems, and bike locks & lighting.

Category Manager
The Category Manager for AXA HOME Security is responsible for managing and expanding the product portfolio in the Polish and Dutch markets. This role focuses on overseeing mechanical products while strategically planning for growth into smart products. The Category Manager will lead a team of two product managers, one based in Poland and the other in the Netherlands, to drive product innovation, market penetration, and profitability. This position requires a forward-thinking leader who can balance current product management with future growth initiatives, ensuring the portfolio aligns with market demands and company objectives. Additionally, this role is part of the management team at AXA HOME Security, contributing to strategic decision-making and ensuring alignment between portfolio strategies and broader organizational goals.

Key Responsibilities
Portfolio Management:

• Oversee the current portfolio of mechanical products and develop strategies for expansion into smart products.

• Conduct market research and analysis to identify trends, customer needs, and opportunities for innovation.

• Define and execute product roadmaps, ensuring alignment with business goals and market demands.
  

Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor a team of product managers, ensuring collaboration and innovation.

• Set clear goals and performance expectations for team members, providing regular feedback and conducting evaluations.

• Support the professional development of product managers, encouraging continuous learning and growth.
  

Market Strategy

• Develop and implement market-specific strategies for Poland and the Netherlands, focusing on maximizing product penetration and profitability.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, partners, and customers in both markets.

• Analyze competitive landscape and adjust strategies to maintain a competitive edge
  

Product Innovation

• Drive the transition from mechanical to smart products, identifying new technologies and opportunities for product enhancement.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., R&D, marketing, sales) to ensure successful product development and launch.

• Ensure products meet quality standards, regulatory requirements, and customer expectations
  

Financial Management

• Manage the portfolio’s budget, including forecasting, cost control, and profitability analysis.

• Monitor financial performance and key metrics, providing regular reports and recommendations to internal stakeholders
  

Operational Excellence

• Ensure efficient and effective product management processes, optimizing workflows and systems.

• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure successful execution of product initiatives and operations.
  

Key Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Product Management, Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
  

Experience

• 7+ years of experience in product or portfolio management, with a focus on mechanical and/or smart products.

• Proven track record of managing product portfolios and leading teams.

• Experience in the home security, technology, or consumer electronics industries is a plus.
  

Skills

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate diverse teams.

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on achieving results.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships at all levels.

• Proficiency in market analysis and the ability to leverage insights to inform strategy.

• Strong understanding of product development principles, including innovation and lifecycle management.
  

Behavioral Competencies

• Results-driven and customer-focused.

• Innovative and adaptable, with a passion for continuous improvement.

• Collaborative and team-oriented.

About Allegion & GPS
Allegion is a worldwide leader in the field of security. In the Netherlands we are best known for the brands AXA, Trelock and Kryptonite!

Our Veenendaal location has a rich history dating back to 1902. Twenty years later we introduced the first bicycle ring lock, paving the way for our range of hardware, bicycle locks and bicycle lighting. Our strength lies in the absolute will to make bikes, doors and windows more secure.

We do this by developing bicycle lights for better visibility and locks that make sure you can leave your bike anywhere with confidence. With AXA Home, we offer high-quality window and door security for a secure feeling in your own home. In addition to Veenendaal, within our Business Unit GPS we also have branches in France, Poland and Germany.

Enjoy what you do and be proud of what and who we are.

Not sure if your experience is a perfect match for the role? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply for a job if they don’t meet every requirement and desired qualification listed. At Allegion, we are always looking for a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. So, if you’re excited about this position but your experience doesn’t perfectly align with every aspect of the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might just be the right candidate for this role.

Allegion heeft het recruitment proces uitbesteed aan I-recruiting B.V.

Dat betekent dat het eerste telefonische contact met een recruiter van I-recruiting zal zijn.

Indien je enthousiast bent en in het functieprofiel past, wordt jouw CV (inclusief gespreksverslag) doorgestuurd naar Allegion.

Allegion zal eventuele vervolggesprekken met je voeren en bij de juiste match treed je direct bij hen in dienst.