Market and Product Strategy Analyst
π Job Overview
Job Title: Market and Product Strategy Analyst Company: Candela | 100% Electric Boats Location: Stockholm, Sweden & Sollentuna, Sweden Job Type: Full-Time Category: Product Strategy & Operations Date Posted: 2025-10-23T13:23:55 Experience Level: 2-5 Years Remote Status: Hybrid
π Role Summary
- Drive market and product strategy by analyzing customer segments and their specific needs, ensuring alignment with Candela's innovative electric hydrofoil vessel offerings.
- Prioritize product features and influence the roadmap by translating complex customer insights and market intelligence into actionable product development directives.
- Develop sophisticated pricing models, customization packages, and compelling business cases, including Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and Return on Investment (ROI) analyses, to support sales and customer acquisition.
- Evaluate and identify new aftermarket and service opportunities, such as digital subscriptions and predictive maintenance programs, to enhance customer value and generate recurring revenue streams.
- Leverage real-time data analytics from Candela vessels to optimize fleet performance, inform predictive maintenance schedules, and continuously improve the overall customer experience.
π Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at the intersection of Product Management, Sales Operations, and Market Analysis, requiring a strong blend of strategic thinking, analytical rigor, and commercial acumen. The focus on data-driven decision-making and the development of business cases with clear ROI demonstrates a need for operations professionals who can quantify impact and drive measurable growth.
π Primary Responsibilities
- Conduct in-depth mapping and analysis of diverse customer segments, including public transport operators, municipalities, tourism/ferry operators, and fleet owners, to thoroughly understand their unique operational requirements, economic constraints, and critical success factors.
- Translate identified customer needs and comprehensive market intelligence into prioritized product features and strategic roadmap decisions, ensuring Candela's product development efforts are precisely aligned with market demand and competitive landscape.
- Design and implement robust pricing models, flexible customization packages, and persuasive business cases that clearly articulate the value proposition, TCO, and ROI for potential customers, thereby enabling effective sales negotiations and deal closures.
- Proactively identify, research, and evaluate new revenue-generating aftermarket and service opportunities, such as innovative digital subscription models, advanced predictive maintenance solutions, and value-added support services, to expand Candela's service portfolio and customer lifetime value.
- Analyze and interpret real-time operational data generated by Candela vessels to identify trends, optimize performance parameters, refine predictive maintenance algorithms, and enhance the overall customer experience, ensuring maximum fleet efficiency and reliability.
- Foster close collaboration with Sales, Marketing, and Engineering teams to develop insightful dashboards, comprehensive performance reports, and compelling executive recommendations that inform strategic decision-making and drive cross-functional alignment.
π Enhancement Note: The emphasis on analyzing specific customer segments like "public transport operators" and "municipalities" suggests a B2B or B2G focus, requiring an understanding of procurement cycles and stakeholder management beyond typical B2C sales. The responsibility to "analyze real-time data" points towards a need for data engineering or BI skills for pipeline management and performance tracking.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education: Master's degree in Engineering (specifically Industrial Engineering/Financial Mathematics), Business Administration, or a closely related field.
Experience: 1-5 years of demonstrated experience in commercial analysis, particularly within Product Management and/or Sales functions.
Required Skills:
- Exceptional analytical skills with a proven ability to derive actionable insights from complex datasets.
- Strong commercial acumen and a deep understanding of market dynamics, pricing strategies, and business case development.
- Proficiency in advanced Excel modeling for financial analysis, pricing, TCO, and ROI calculations.
- Demonstrated ability to translate analytical findings into clear, concise, and persuasive presentations using tools like PowerPoint for executive leadership.
- Proven experience in developing sophisticated pricing models, commercial modeling, and customization strategies.
- Experience in constructing business cases, TCO models, and ROI models tailored for customer value demonstration.
- Excellent collaborative skills with a track record of working effectively across diverse departments (Sales, Marketing, Engineering) to achieve shared objectives.
- Fluency in English, both written and spoken.
Preferred Skills:
- Familiarity with data visualization tools for creating impactful dashboards and reports.
- Experience in market research methodologies and competitive intelligence gathering.
- Understanding of subscription-based business models and digital service offerings.
- Knowledge of product lifecycle management and roadmap prioritization frameworks.
- Exposure to the marine or transportation industry, particularly with innovative or sustainable technologies.
π Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Master's degree in Engineering or Business Administration, combined with 1-5 years of experience, suggests this role is ideal for early-to-mid-career professionals looking to specialize in product strategy within a high-growth, technology-driven environment. The emphasis on Excel and PowerPoint indicates a need for strong quantitative and presentation skills, common in roles that bridge analytics and strategic decision-making.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- Showcase examples of market analysis reports and customer segmentation studies that led to strategic product recommendations.
- Present detailed business cases, including TCO and ROI models, demonstrating your ability to quantify value and drive commercial decisions.
- Include examples of pricing strategy development and the rationale behind them, illustrating how pricing was aligned with market conditions and customer value.
- Provide evidence of data analysis projects where you translated raw data into actionable insights that influenced product roadmaps or sales strategies.
Process Documentation:
- Document workflow designs or process improvements you have implemented or contributed to, particularly those related to market analysis, product prioritization, or sales operations.
- Illustrate how you have utilized data to measure the performance of processes, products, or services, and how these measurements informed future iterations.
- Demonstrate experience with system implementation or optimization projects, highlighting your role in improving efficiency or data integrity within a business context.
π Enhancement Note: For a Market and Product Strategy Analyst, a portfolio should emphasize strategic thinking, analytical rigor, and the ability to translate data into tangible business outcomes. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how their analytical outputs have directly influenced product development, pricing, or sales strategies, with a clear focus on quantifiable results and ROI.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Market and Product Strategy Analyst with 1-5 years of experience in Stockholm, Sweden, the estimated annual salary range is SEK 450,000 - SEK 650,000. This range accounts for the cost of living in Stockholm and the specialized nature of the role within the advanced marine technology sector.
Benefits:
- Full-time employment with an initial 6-month probation period.
- Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in a rapidly growing, revolutionary industry.
- Diverse and inclusive work environment with over 50 nationalities represented.
- Collaborative and ambitious team culture that values kindness, humility, and fun.
- Candela Months: Year-round calendar of bonding activities and events to foster team cohesion.
- Office-first, but not office-only approach, balancing in-person collaboration with personal flexibility.
- Potential for test rides of Candela vessels to experience the product firsthand.
- Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement in a dynamic startup environment.
- Regular social events and team-building activities that contribute to a positive work atmosphere.
Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility in how work is structured to accommodate personal life, aligned with the "office-first but not office-only" philosophy.
π Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on data from reputable salary aggregators and HR consulting firms for similar roles in Stockholm, Sweden, considering the specified experience level and industry. Benefits are inferred from the company culture description, emphasizing a dynamic startup environment with a focus on employee well-being and team integration.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Advanced Marine Technology, Electric Vehicles, Sustainable Transportation. Candela is at the forefront of a new category of electric hydrofoil vessels, disrupting traditional waterborne transport with a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and performance. The company operates in a high-growth, innovation-driven market.
Company Size: Growing, with a team of over 50 nationalities. This indicates a dynamic, international, and rapidly scaling organization that likely values diverse perspectives and rapid adaptation to market changes.
Founded: 2014. Candela has a history of innovation, moving from early prototypes to delivering game-changing vessels like the Candela P-12 ferry. This suggests a company with a strong technological foundation and a proven ability to bring complex products to market.
Team Structure:
- The Product team, to which this role reports, is likely composed of individuals focused on product development, strategy, and market analysis.
- Reporting to Nicklas Jonsson, suggesting a clear line of leadership and guidance within the product function.
- Cross-functional collaboration is heavily emphasized, with frequent interaction expected with Sales, Marketing, and Engineering teams.
Methodology:
- Data-driven decision-making is central, with an emphasis on analyzing customer insights, market intelligence, and real-time vessel performance data.
- Agile and iterative product development is implied, given the focus on prioritizing features and roadmap adjustments based on feedback and data.
- A strong emphasis on business case development and ROI, indicating a focus on commercial viability and measurable impact.
- A culture that encourages bold ideas and embraces challenges, typical of a pioneering technology company.
Company Website: https://careers.candela.com
π Enhancement Note: Candela's focus on electric hydrofoil technology positions it as an innovator in a niche but rapidly expanding market. The company culture, described as "revolutionary spirit and kindness," suggests a blend of high performance and supportive teamwork. The international diversity of its workforce is a key cultural aspect that likely influences communication styles and problem-solving approaches.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an Analyst within the Product Strategy function. It is suitable for individuals with 1-5 years of experience who are looking to deepen their expertise in market analysis, product development, and strategic commercial planning. It represents a foundational role for a career in product management, strategy, or business operations within a technology-focused company.
Reporting Structure: The Market and Product Strategy Analyst will report directly to Nicklas Jonsson, who is likely a Product Manager, Head of Product, or a similar senior leadership role within the product organization. This direct reporting line offers visibility and opportunities for significant learning and mentorship.
Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on Candela's growth ambitions. By providing critical market insights, prioritizing product features, and developing robust business cases, the analyst will directly influence product direction, sales strategies, and the company's ability to capture market share and achieve its mission of transitioning to fossil fuel-free waterborne transport. The analysis of aftermarket opportunities also contributes to long-term revenue generation and customer retention.
Growth Opportunities:
- Specialization in Product Strategy: Deepen expertise in market analysis, competitive intelligence, product roadmapping, and go-to-market strategy within the burgeoning electric marine sector.
- Leadership Development: Progress into more senior product management or strategy roles, potentially leading specific product lines or strategic initiatives as the company scales.
- Cross-functional Expertise: Gain broad exposure to Sales, Marketing, Engineering, and Operations, building a holistic understanding of the business that can lead to diverse career paths.
- Industry Expertise: Become a subject matter expert in electric marine technology and sustainable transportation, a highly sought-after niche.
- Mentorship: Benefit from guidance from experienced leaders like Nicklas Jonsson, and potentially mentor junior analysts as the team grows.
π Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear pathway for growth from an analytical position to more strategic and potentially leadership-focused positions within product management or GTM strategy. The company's rapid growth phase provides ample opportunities for individuals to expand their responsibilities and impact.
π Work Environment
Office Type: Candela operates with an "office-first but not office-only" philosophy. This implies a hybrid work model where in-person collaboration is valued and encouraged, particularly for team building and strategic discussions, but with flexibility for remote work. The primary base is at HQ in Frihamnen, Stockholm, with occasional visits to the production facility in Rotebro.
Office Location(s):
- HQ: Frihamnen, Stockholm (Frihamnsgatan 25, 115 56 Stockholm) - This is the main hub for strategic and collaborative work.
- Production Facility: Rotebro (RotevΓ€gen 2, 192 78 Sollentuna) - Occasional visits are expected, suggesting the need for some onsite presence for understanding manufacturing realities.
Workspace Context:
- Collaborative Environment: The office setting is designed to foster collaboration, with an expectation of in-person interaction for brainstorming, problem-solving, and team bonding.
- Technology & Tools: While not explicitly detailed, a company focused on cutting-edge technology and electric vessels will likely provide modern office infrastructure, high-speed internet, and access to necessary software and hardware for analysis and communication.
- Team Interaction: The hybrid model and emphasis on collaboration suggest opportunities for regular interaction with colleagues across product, sales, marketing, and engineering teams, both formally and informally.
Work Schedule: Approximately 40 hours per week, with a flexible approach that acknowledges the need for work-life balance while ensuring core operational needs and collaborative requirements are met. This flexibility is beneficial for individuals who need to manage personal commitments alongside demanding project work.
π Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key aspect of the work environment. Candidates should understand that while there is flexibility, a commitment to in-person collaboration at the Stockholm HQ is expected, along with occasional site visits to the production facility. This blend ensures both strategic alignment and practical understanding of the product.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
- Initial Screening: A review of your application, focusing on your resume and cover letter for relevant experience in commercial analysis, product strategy, and data-driven decision-making.
- First Interview (likely with Hiring Manager): A discussion to assess your analytical skills, commercial acumen, understanding of pricing and business cases, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your experience with Excel, PowerPoint, and translating data into insights.
- Case Study/Analytical Challenge: You may be given a take-home assignment or an in-interview exercise to analyze a market scenario, develop a pricing strategy, or build a business case. This assesses your practical application of required skills.
- Team Interviews: Meetings with potential colleagues from Product, Sales, or Marketing teams to evaluate your collaboration style and ability to integrate into the team.
- Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit for the company's growth trajectory.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Quantify Achievements: For each project or experience, clearly state the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., "Increased conversion by X%," "Developed pricing model that projected Y% ROI," "Identified customer segment leading to Z% revenue growth").
- Showcase Analytical Process: Detail your methodology for analysis, including data sources, tools used (Excel, etc.), and the steps taken to derive insights.
- Highlight Business Impact: Connect your analytical work directly to business outcomes and strategic decisions. Emphasize how your contributions drove revenue, improved efficiency, or informed product direction.
- Tailor to Candela: If possible, reference Candela's products or market position in your portfolio examples to demonstrate your understanding of their business and industry.
- Conciseness and Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and clearly communicates your skills and achievements without unnecessary jargon.
Challenge Preparation:
- Master Excel & PowerPoint: Be ready to demonstrate advanced proficiency in Excel for modeling and data manipulation, and in PowerPoint for clear, impactful presentations.
- Understand Market Dynamics: Research the electric boat market, Candela's competitive landscape, and potential customer segments.
- Practice Business Case Development: Prepare to outline the components of a strong business case, including market analysis, financial projections, risk assessment, and ROI calculations.
- Articulate Strategy: Practice explaining how you would approach analyzing a new market segment or developing a pricing strategy for a new product.
π Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be rigorous, focusing heavily on analytical capabilities, commercial thinking, and the ability to present complex information effectively. A strong portfolio demonstrating past successes in similar analytical and strategic roles will be crucial for advancing.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
- Microsoft Excel: Essential for detailed financial modeling, data analysis, pricing calculations, TCO, and ROI models. Advanced proficiency is expected.
- Microsoft PowerPoint: Crucial for creating executive-level presentations, reports, and recommendations based on analytical findings.
- CRM System (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot): While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with CRM data for customer analysis and sales process understanding is highly beneficial.
- Data Analysis & BI Tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI): Experience with these tools for creating dashboards, visualizing data, and generating reports is a strong preference.
Analytics & Reporting:
- Spreadsheet Software: As mentioned, Excel is primary for deep dives.
- Presentation Software: PowerPoint for communicating insights.
- Potential for dedicated analytics platforms: Depending on company infrastructure, exposure to more advanced data warehousing or BI tools could be an advantage.
CRM & Automation:
- CRM Data Analysis: Ability to extract and interpret data from CRM systems to understand customer behavior, sales pipelines, and market trends.
- Process Optimization Tools: General understanding of how to identify bottlenecks and propose improvements in workflows, potentially involving automation concepts.
π Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint is a non-negotiable requirement. Experience with BI tools like Tableau or Power BI would be a significant advantage, as would familiarity with CRM systems, given the role's close ties to sales and customer data.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
- Data-Driven Decision Making: A commitment to using data, analysis, and customer insights to inform all strategic and product decisions.
- Innovation & Boldness: Embracing a "revolutionary spirit" to push boundaries, develop cutting-edge technology, and challenge conventional approaches in the marine industry.
- Collaboration & Kindness: Fostering a supportive team environment where individuals from diverse backgrounds work together harmoniously, sharing knowledge and supporting each other's success.
- Efficiency & Impact: A focus on driving tangible results, optimizing processes, and ensuring that Candela's products and strategies have a significant impact on its mission of sustainable transportation.
- Customer Centricity: A deep understanding of customer needs and a commitment to delivering exceptional value through product features, pricing, and aftermarket services.
Collaboration Style:
- Cross-functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working seamlessly with Sales, Marketing, and Engineering to ensure alignment on product strategy, market needs, and business objectives.
- Open Communication: Encouraging clear, direct, and constructive communication across all levels and departments.
- Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes sharing insights, best practices, and lessons learned to collectively improve performance and drive innovation.
- Agile & Responsive: Adapting quickly to market changes and customer feedback, with a willingness to iterate on strategies and product plans as needed.
π Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of high-performance, innovation-driven ambition and a genuinely supportive, inclusive team environment. Candidates who thrive in dynamic settings, value data integrity, and enjoy collaborative problem-solving will be a strong fit.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
- Rapidly Evolving Market: The electric marine sector is nascent and fast-paced, requiring continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies, regulations, and competitive pressures.
- Balancing Innovation with Commercial Viability: Ensuring that cutting-edge product development is supported by sound pricing strategies, viable business cases, and a clear path to profitability.
- Data Integration and Analysis: Effectively integrating and analyzing data from various sources (customer interactions, vessel performance, market trends) to generate comprehensive insights.
- Cross-functional Alignment: Navigating the complexities of collaborating with diverse departments (Sales, Engineering, Marketing) to ensure strategic alignment and buy-in for product initiatives.
- Scaling Operations: Contributing to the strategic planning and operational execution needed to support Candela's ambitious growth trajectory.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Deep Dive into Product Strategy: Gain in-depth expertise in market analysis, product lifecycle management, and go-to-market strategies for innovative technologies.
- Advanced Analytics and Financial Modeling: Hone skills in complex Excel modeling, TCO/ROI analysis, and potentially BI tools for data visualization and reporting.
- Industry-Specific Knowledge: Become an expert in the electric hydrofoil technology, marine industry trends, and sustainable transportation solutions.
- Exposure to High-Growth Environment: Learn how to operate and strategize within a fast-paced, scaling tech company.
- Mentorship and Networking: Benefit from guidance from experienced professionals and build a network within the cleantech and marine sectors.
π Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to tackle complex challenges in a groundbreaking industry. The growth opportunities are substantial for individuals willing to embrace continuous learning and contribute to a mission-driven company.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
- "How would you approach analyzing the market potential for Candela's P-12 ferry in the North American market, considering different customer segments like municipal transit and private operators?" (Focus on methodology, data sources, and key considerations)
- "Describe a situation where you developed a pricing strategy for a new product or service. What factors did you consider, and what was the outcome?" (Demonstrates pricing expertise and commercial thinking)
- "Imagine Candela wants to introduce a subscription service for predictive maintenance. Outline the key components of a business case you would build to evaluate its viability." (Tests business case development and understanding of aftermarket services)
- "How do you balance the need for product innovation with the demands of commercial viability and customer affordability?" (Assesses strategic trade-offs and operational pragmatism)
Company & Culture Questions:
- "What excites you most about Candela's mission and its technology?" (Evaluates passion and alignment with company values)
- "How would you contribute to Candela's collaborative and innovative culture?" (Assesses cultural fit and teamwork approach)
- "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders from different departments to adopt your recommendation. How did you approach it?" (Tests communication and stakeholder management skills)
- "How do you stay updated on market trends and technological advancements in the electric vehicle or marine industry?" (Gauges proactivity and industry engagement)
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Structure your Case Studies: For each key project, use a clear narrative: Problem/Opportunity -> Your Approach/Analysis -> Solution/Recommendation -> Outcome/Impact (quantified).
- Visualize Data Effectively: Use charts, graphs, and dashboards (even mock-ups if necessary) to illustrate your analysis and findings. Highlight key metrics clearly.
- Focus on ROI and Business Value: For pricing, business cases, and strategy recommendations, always emphasize the financial impact and strategic benefit to the company.
- Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your methodologies, assumptions, and the rationale behind your conclusions. Be ready to defend your work with data and logic.
- Practice your Pitch: Rehearse your presentation to ensure it is concise, engaging, and within any time limits provided.
π Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong analytical foundation, commercial thinking, and the ability to translate complex data into actionable business strategies. Candidates should be ready to articulate their thought processes and quantify their impact.
π Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
- Submit your application through the Candela careers website at https://careers.candela.com.
- Tailor your Resume: Emphasize quantifiable achievements related to market analysis, product strategy, pricing, business case development, and data analysis. Use keywords from the job description such as "commercial analysis," "pricing models," "business cases," "ROI," and "customer segments."
- Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Clearly articulate your interest in Candela's mission and technology, and how your specific skills and experience align with the responsibilities of a Market and Product Strategy Analyst. Highlight your analytical rigor and commercial acumen.
- Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate examples of your work that showcase your ability to conduct market analysis, develop pricing strategies, build business cases with ROI, and translate data into actionable insights. Be ready to present and discuss these confidently.
- Research Candela: Thoroughly understand Candela's products, mission, market position, and recent news. Familiarize yourself with their innovative hydrofoil technology and their commitment to sustainable transport.
β οΈ 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.
Application Requirements
Candidates should have a Master's degree in Engineering or Business Administration and 1-5 years of experience in commercial analysis. Fluency in English and experience in developing pricing and commercial modeling strategies are also required.