Director of Product Strategy

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Director of Product Strategy Company: SIGNATURE SOLAR LLC Location: Irving, TX, US Job Type: Full-Time Category: Product Strategy & Operations Date Posted: 2026-01-20T15:01:00 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee, manage, and optimize the product line for Signature Solar, serving as a critical leadership role in shaping the company's supplier portfolio and product offerings.
• Drive product selection, market negotiations, and expansion of product offerings to strategically align with evolving market needs and overarching company objectives.
• Position Signature Solar as a leader in the solar market through astute product selection, favorable supplier terms, and a forward-thinking approach to product development.
• Build and enhance product offerings by identifying emerging technologies, negotiating pricing and contracts, and collaborating internally to make data-driven decisions on product market fit and profitability.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Director level, implying significant strategic responsibility and leadership. The focus on product strategy within a distribution model, specifically in the solar industry, suggests a strong need for market analysis, supplier relationship management, and a deep understanding of product lifecycle management from a distribution perspective. The AI-identified category "Product Strategy & Operations" reflects this blend of strategic planning and operational execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Articulate Signature Solar’s vision and go-to-market strategy, ensuring product offerings are aligned with customer needs, market trends, and business objectives.
• Conduct comprehensive market research to identify customer pain points, emerging technologies, and new opportunities for portfolio expansion and enhancement.
• Develop and maintain a dynamic product roadmap that strategically aligns product selection with business objectives, evolving market trends, and customer demands.
• Monitor industry trends, supplier activities, and competitor behavior to proactively identify and capitalize on potential threats and opportunities affecting the distribution strategy.
• Evaluate and recommend emerging technologies to enhance Signature Solar’s product offerings and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
• Prioritize products based on business impact, customer needs, and market readiness, ensuring optimal resource allocation for successful product development and launch.
• Ensure new products meet stringent quality standards and are effectively positioned in the marketplace, aligning with Signature Solar’s overall product strategy.
• Coordinate cross-functionally with product management, marketing, sales, and other departments to ensure seamless product selection, marketing, and distribution processes.
• Collaborate closely with sales teams to ensure products are well-supported, effectively marketed, and meet customer expectations to drive sales growth.
• Lead and execute supplier negotiations to secure favorable pricing, terms, and delivery schedules that support Signature Solar’s product strategy and profitability goals.
• Regularly evaluate supplier performance to ensure compliance with quality standards, delivery expectations, and pricing agreements, fostering strong supplier relationships.
• Define, track, and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of distributed products and the effectiveness of vendor relationships.
• Adjust distribution and product strategies based on data-driven insights and market feedback, continuously improving product positioning and customer satisfaction.
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, such as product availability issues, quality concerns, and cost fluctuations, by implementing proactive strategies.
• Ensure the timely and effective processing of warranty claims, replacement coverages, spare part receipts, and adherence to all supplier contracts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a strategic and operational leadership role focused on the product lifecycle within a distribution model. The emphasis on market research, supplier negotiations, product roadmap development, and cross-functional collaboration are core to GTM and Product Operations functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree or relevant certification preferred but not required. Experience: Proven experience managing teams and leading supplier management and product strategy initiatives, particularly in product selection, negotiations, and market positioning. Extensive experience in supply chain management, procurement, product management, and supplier relationship management. Demonstrated expertise in negotiating complex supplier contracts, securing favorable terms, and managing cost optimization strategies. Strong experience in assessing market trends, product demand, and identifying new products for inclusion in the portfolio.

Required Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of the solar industry, current trends, emerging technologies, and competitive market dynamics.
• Exceptional negotiation skills, with the ability to secure favorable supplier terms and drive cost savings without compromising product quality or supplier relationships.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to align product strategies with the company’s business goals.
• Proven experience in product selection and portfolio management within a distribution environment, focusing on optimizing offerings to meet customer demand.
• Deep understanding of market dynamics and customer behavior, enabling data-driven decisions on product selection, positioning, and pricing.
• Expertise in market research methodologies and data analysis, with the ability to identify trends and opportunities for growth.
• Proven experience in cross-functional collaboration, ensuring that products are effectively brought to market and supported by all necessary resources.
• Strong leadership skills and experience managing teams, particularly in product strategy and market negotiations.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with product lifecycle management (PLM) software.
• Familiarity with CRM systems for tracking product performance and sales alignment.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools for market trend identification and forecasting.
• Knowledge of international sourcing and supply chain logistics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Skills" section is very robust, indicating a high level of expertise needed. The "Preferred Skills" are inferred based on the nature of the role and typical tools/knowledge that would enhance performance in this capacity, aligning with typical GTM and operations skill sets. The emphasis on "10+ Years" experience level further supports the depth of these requirements.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a history of successful product portfolio development and optimization, detailing the strategic rationale behind product selection and expansion.
• Provide examples of market research initiatives, demonstrating how data was used to identify opportunities, assess demand, and inform product strategy.
• Present case studies of significant supplier negotiations, highlighting negotiation strategies, secured terms, and the resulting impact on cost, quality, or availability.
• Demonstrate experience in developing and executing product roadmaps, illustrating how they aligned with business objectives and market shifts.

Process Documentation:

• Documented methodologies for market analysis and competitive intelligence gathering.
• Frameworks for evaluating new product introductions and emerging technologies.
• Processes for supplier evaluation, performance management, and contract negotiation.
• Workflow examples for cross-functional collaboration between product, sales, marketing, and operations teams.
• Systems for tracking product KPIs, performance metrics, and ROI analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: While no explicit portfolio requirements were listed, a Director-level role in Product Strategy necessitates a portfolio demonstrating strategic thinking, negotiation prowess, market analysis capabilities, and leadership in product lifecycle management. These inferred requirements are standard for such roles in operations and GTM functions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Director of Product Strategy with 10+ years of experience in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, the estimated annual salary range is $150,000 - $200,000. This range accounts for the leadership responsibilities, strategic impact, and specialized knowledge required for the role, including expertise in the solar industry and complex negotiations.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions (e.g., 401(k)).
• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit sharing.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and industry conferences.
• Life and disability insurance coverage.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week. While a standard office schedule is expected, flexibility may be available based on project needs and team collaboration requirements, with potential for occasional extended hours during critical negotiation periods or product launches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation for a Director-level role in a major metropolitan area like Irving, TX, requires referencing industry salary data for similar positions, factoring in experience level (10+ years), industry (Solar/Energy Distribution), and the strategic nature of the role. The benefits are standard for full-time positions at this level.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Renewable Energy (Solar Distribution). Signature Solar operates within a rapidly growing and technologically evolving sector, focusing on distributing solar products. This industry demands innovation, efficiency, and strong supplier partnerships. Company Size: Information not explicitly provided, but the need for a Director of Product Strategy suggests a company of significant scale or with ambitious growth plans, likely employing over 100 individuals to require such a specialized leadership role. Founded: Information not provided.

Team Structure:

• The Director of Product Strategy likely leads a dedicated product strategy or product management team, potentially including product managers, market analysts, and negotiation specialists.
• This role will report to senior leadership, such as a VP of Operations, Chief Commercial Officer, or even the CEO, given its strategic importance.
• Close collaboration is expected with Sales, Marketing, Procurement, Operations, and potentially Engineering or R&D departments.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, utilizing market research, sales data, and supplier performance metrics.
• Strategic planning and roadmap development will guide product selection and future offerings.
• Negotiation and relationship management are core to securing favorable terms with suppliers.
• Cross-functional collaboration ensures alignment and effective execution of product strategies.

Company Website: https://signaturesolar.com/ (Inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company industry and the role itself strongly imply a culture focused on growth, efficiency, and market leadership within the renewable energy sector. The inferred company size is based on the organizational need for a Director-level strategic role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents a senior leadership role within the product and operations domain. As a Director, the individual is responsible for high-level strategy, team management, and significant business impact. It signifies a transition from individual contributor or manager to a strategic architect of the company's product future. Reporting Structure: The Director of Product Strategy likely reports to a VP or C-level executive, indicating a direct line of influence on company-wide strategy and profitability. This position is critical in bridging the gap between market opportunities and the company's operational capabilities. Operations Impact: The role has a direct and substantial impact on revenue and profitability through optimal product selection, favorable supplier terms, and strategic market positioning. Effective product strategy directly influences sales performance, customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to VP-level roles in Product, Commercial Operations, or Supply Chain.
• Potential to lead broader strategic initiatives or business unit P&Ls.
• Opportunity to significantly shape the future direction and product portfolio of a growing company in the renewable energy sector.
• Development of advanced negotiation and strategic partnership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: A Director role typically offers significant growth potential, either within the current organization or by leveraging the experience for leadership positions elsewhere. The analysis is based on standard career progression for strategic operations and product leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site in Irving, TX. This suggests a traditional office environment conducive to collaborative work, team meetings, and focused strategic planning. Office Location(s): Irving, TX, a major business hub within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, offering accessibility and proximity to a diverse talent pool and business resources.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative workspace designed to foster interaction between product strategy, sales, marketing, and operations teams.
• Access to necessary analytical tools, market data platforms, and communication technologies to support strategic decision-making and supplier engagement.
• Opportunities for direct engagement with leadership and cross-functional teams to drive product initiatives.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time business hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected, with potential for flexibility and occasional extended hours to meet critical business demands, particularly during negotiations or product launch phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation and location in Irving, TX, are standard for many leadership roles. The description focuses on how the physical environment supports the collaborative and strategic nature of the role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely conduct a preliminary call to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and salary expectations.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A deep dive into experience with product strategy, market analysis, supplier negotiations, and leadership capabilities. This stage will assess strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from Sales, Marketing, Operations, and potentially Procurement to evaluate collaboration and communication skills.
• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a strategic analysis of a market opportunity, a plan for product portfolio expansion, or a successful negotiation case study.
• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership (e.g., VP or C-suite) to finalize the decision, focusing on strategic vision and long-term fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Strategic Impact: Highlight how your product strategy decisions directly led to revenue growth, market share gains, or cost savings. Quantify achievements whenever possible.
• Demonstrate Negotiation Prowess: Prepare detailed examples of complex supplier negotiations, outlining your approach, challenges, and successful outcomes.
• Illustrate Market Acumen: Present evidence of market research capabilities, including how you identified trends, assessed customer needs, and translated insights into actionable product strategies.
• Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Include examples of leading teams, influencing cross-functional partners, and driving consensus on product initiatives.
• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by strategic initiative, product category, or negotiation success, with clear executive summaries for each piece.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss your approach to product portfolio optimization in a dynamic market.
• Prepare to articulate your strategy for identifying and evaluating emerging technologies in the solar sector.
• Practice presenting your negotiation philosophy and provide specific examples of how you've secured favorable supplier terms.
• Develop a framework for how you would assess and manage supply chain risks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process for a Director-level role emphasize strategic thinking, leadership, and demonstrable impact. The advice is tailored to showcase the candidate's ability to drive business outcomes through product strategy and operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot): For understanding sales pipelines, customer segmentation, and market feedback integration.
• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software: To manage product data, roadmaps, and development cycles.
• Data Analysis & Business Intelligence Tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Excel): For market research, trend analysis, KPI tracking, and financial modeling.
• Project Management Software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Jira): For managing cross-functional initiatives and product development timelines.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Market Intelligence Platforms: To gather data on industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging technologies.
• ERP Systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite): For understanding inventory, supply chain logistics, and cost structures.
• Financial Modeling Software: For assessing product profitability, ROI, and negotiation impact.

CRM & Automation:

• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) Tools: To track supplier performance, contracts, and communication.
• Negotiation Support Tools: Potentially specialized software or advanced Excel models for deal analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are typical for roles involving product strategy, supply chain, and GTM operations. Proficiency in data analysis and CRM systems is crucial for informed decision-making and cross-functional alignment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Strategic Alignment: Ensuring all product decisions and supplier engagements directly support Signature Solar's overarching business objectives and market positioning.
• Data-Driven Excellence: Relying on robust market analysis, performance metrics, and customer insights to inform product strategy and negotiation tactics.
• Collaboration & Partnership: Fostering strong working relationships internally (Sales, Marketing, Operations) and externally with suppliers to achieve mutual success.
• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies and market trends, and being agile in adjusting strategies to maintain competitiveness.
• Efficiency & Profitability: Focusing on optimizing product offerings and supplier terms to maximize profitability and operational efficiency.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Regularly engaging with Sales, Marketing, and Operations to share insights, gather feedback, and ensure alignment on product strategy.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Guiding and influencing teams outside of direct reporting lines to achieve product objectives.
• Data-Informed Discussions: Using data and analytics to drive productive conversations and decision-making in team meetings and stakeholder discussions.
• Feedback Integration: Open to constructive feedback from all levels and departments to refine product strategies and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The inferred values and collaboration style are based on the strategic nature of the role and the typical demands of a growing company in the technology/energy sector.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Market Volatility: Navigating rapid changes in solar technology, government regulations, and global supply chain dynamics.
• Supplier Management: Balancing the need for competitive pricing with maintaining quality, reliability, and strong long-term supplier relationships.
• Forecasting Accuracy: Accurately predicting market demand and emerging technology adoption to inform product roadmap decisions.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring all departments are aligned with and executing the product strategy effectively.
• Data Integration & Analysis: Consolidating and analyzing data from various sources to gain actionable insights.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening expertise in the solar industry and renewable energy technologies.
• Enhancing advanced negotiation and strategic sourcing skills.
• Developing leadership capabilities in managing teams and influencing senior stakeholders.
• Gaining exposure to broader commercial and operational strategies within Signature Solar.
• Potential for attending industry conferences and specialized training programs in product strategy and supply chain management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges and growth opportunities provides a realistic outlook for candidates and highlights areas where they can develop their skills and contribute to the company's success.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for identifying and evaluating new product opportunities within a distribution model. How do you balance market demand with supplier capabilities?"
• "Walk me through a complex supplier negotiation you led. What were the key objectives, challenges, and the ultimate outcome? What did you learn from it?"
• "How do you develop and maintain a product roadmap that aligns with both short-term business needs and long-term market trends? Can you provide an example?"
• "What are the critical KPIs you would track to measure the success of a product portfolio and supplier relationships? How do you use this data to drive decisions?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Signature Solar and the solar industry, what do you see as our biggest product strategy challenge and opportunity in the next 1-3 years?"
• "How do you foster collaboration between product strategy, sales, and marketing teams to ensure successful go-to-market execution?"
• "Describe your leadership style and how you motivate and develop a team focused on product strategy and supplier management."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your solution (product strategy/negotiation), and the quantifiable results (revenue, cost savings, market share).
• Visual Aids: Use charts, graphs, and concise visuals to illustrate market trends, negotiation outcomes, and roadmap progression.
• Tell a Story: Frame your experiences as narratives that demonstrate your strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership.
• Be Prepared to Dig Deep: Anticipate questions about your methodologies, decision-making rationale, and how you handled specific challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: These sample questions and preparation tips are designed to help candidates understand the depth of knowledge and strategic thinking expected for a Director-level role, focusing on their ability to impact revenue and operations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Director of Product Strategy position:

• Submit your application through the ADP WorkNow portal link provided.
• Tailor your resume: Highlight specific achievements related to product selection, supplier negotiations, market analysis, and team leadership, using keywords from the job description such as "Product Strategy," "Supplier Management," "Market Research," and "Negotiation."
• Prepare your portfolio: Curate examples that clearly demonstrate your strategic impact, negotiation successes, market analysis findings, and leadership experience. Focus on quantifiable results.
• Research Signature Solar: Understand their current product offerings, market position, and any recent news or initiatives to tailor your application and interview responses.
• Practice your pitch: Be ready to articulate your strategic vision for Signature Solar’s product portfolio and how you can drive growth and profitability.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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