Product Strategy and Commercialization Manager (48193)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Strategy and Commercialization Manager

Company: DURANGO COCA COLA BOTTLING COMPANY

Location: 75 Girard St., Durango, CO 81303, United States

Job Type: Other (Likely Full-Time)

Category: Sales Operations / Product Management / Supply Chain

Date Posted: September 01, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Manages end-to-end product lifecycle, from strategic planning and procurement to in-market commercialization and execution.

• Drives product availability and shelf presence through robust demand planning, inventory management, and supplier relationship management.

• Develops and implements go-to-market strategies for new products and marketing initiatives, ensuring successful launches and promotional support.

• Collaborates cross-functionally with Sales, Marketing, and operational teams to align product strategy with business objectives and customer demand.

• Optimizes purchasing decisions based on supplier performance, cost efficiency, and inventory configurations to maximize profitability and minimize waste.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Product Strategy and Commercialization Manager," the core responsibilities and skills align closely with a Sales Operations or Supply Chain role focused on product availability, demand planning, and commercial execution within the beverage distribution industry. The "Sales" job family designation further supports this.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive demand planning and forecasting models for a diverse portfolio of beverage products, syrups, and foodservice items.

• Oversee the procurement process for resale products and assigned operational supplies, ensuring timely and cost-effective acquisition.

• Maintain optimal inventory levels, adhering to specific days' supply targets, freshness, and product rotation standards to minimize stockouts and obsolescence.

• Lead the commercialization efforts for new product introductions and marketing campaigns, including initial forecasting, product placement, and launch planning.

• Evaluate and optimize purchasing decisions, considering factors such as supplier performance, cost-effectiveness, pallet configurations, and layer quantities.

• Coordinate closely with Sales and Full-Service teams to ensure alignment between business forecasts, sales activities, and inventory availability.

• Monitor customer advertising and promotional calendars to proactively anticipate and fulfill inventory requirements.

• Cultivate and manage strong, collaborative relationships with suppliers and distribution partners, actively addressing performance issues and driving continuous improvement.

• Act as a primary liaison between internal departments (Sales, Marketing, Operations) and external suppliers to facilitate seamless supply chain execution and communication.

• Partner with the Sales department throughout the entire product lifecycle, from initial launch planning to final discontinuation, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal disruption.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and company objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a critical role in bridging sales strategy with operational execution, emphasizing proactive inventory management and supplier engagement. This requires strong analytical skills for forecasting and procurement, alongside excellent communication and collaboration for cross-functional alignment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Procurement, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is strongly preferred. Experience:

• Minimum of two years of progressive experience in product procurement, demand forecasting, warehouse inventory management and reconciliation, and shipping/receiving operations. Required Skills:

• Demand Planning & Forecasting: Proven ability to develop accurate demand forecasts and translate them into actionable procurement plans.

• Procurement & Purchasing: Expertise in managing purchasing activities, evaluating supplier performance, and optimizing order quantities.

• Inventory Management: Strong understanding of inventory control principles, including stock rotation, days' supply, and obsolescence management.

• MS Office Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and particularly Excel (e.g., VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, data analysis functions).

• Relationship Building: Demonstrated ability to cultivate trust and rapport with internal teams, brand partners, and external vendors.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication for clear, respectful, and persuasive interactions with diverse stakeholders.

• Organizational Skills: Exceptional ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and maintain meticulous records.

• Math Skills: Strong quantitative and analytical skills for financial analysis, forecasting, and cost evaluation.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience within the beverage distribution or CPG industry.

• Familiarity with supply chain management software or ERP systems.

• Knowledge of trade marketing programs and national display standards.

• Experience in product lifecycle management, including launch and discontinuation processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on MS Excel proficiency and core supply chain functions like demand planning and procurement suggests a hands-on role where data manipulation and analysis are crucial. The preferred bachelor's degree indicates a potential for growth and strategic contribution beyond basic execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demand Forecasting & Planning: Examples of developed forecasting models, including methodologies used, data sources, and accuracy metrics. Showcase how forecasts informed procurement decisions.

• Procurement Strategy & Execution: Case studies demonstrating optimized purchasing strategies, including supplier evaluation criteria, cost-saving initiatives, and inventory level management.

• Inventory Optimization: Documentation of initiatives to improve inventory turnover, reduce waste, or enhance product freshness through strategic management techniques.

• Commercialization Plans: Examples of go-to-market strategies for new products or promotions, detailing forecasting, supply chain coordination, and launch execution.

• Supplier Performance Management: Documentation illustrating how supplier relationships were managed, including performance tracking, issue resolution, and partnership development.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Examples of documented workflows for procurement, inventory management, or new product introductions, highlighting any process improvements or efficiency gains achieved.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Samples of reports or dashboards created to track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to inventory, procurement, and product availability.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Evidence of successful collaboration with Sales, Marketing, or Operations teams, detailing communication protocols and joint project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role would demonstrate a candidate's ability to not only manage processes but also to analyze their effectiveness, drive improvements, and articulate strategic outcomes through data and clear documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $65,000 - $70,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Employee Discounts: Potential for discounts on Coca-Cola products.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and advancement within the company.

Working Hours: Standard business hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Occasional additional or alternative hours may be required to support customer needs or promotional campaigns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and aligns with the experience level and typical compensation for a Product Strategy and Commercialization Manager in a regional distribution company. The benefits listed are standard but should be confirmed for specifics. The mention of occasional extended hours is typical for roles supporting dynamic sales environments.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage Distribution (specifically Coca-Cola Bottling).

Company Size: Likely a medium-sized regional distributor, based on the specific location and the nature of bottling operations.

Founded: Durango Coca-Cola Bottling Company has a history rooted in serving the Durango community, implying a strong local presence and established operational framework.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role sits within the "Sales" job family but has significant operational responsibilities in procurement and inventory.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Strong emphasis on teamwork and communication with Sales, Marketing, and potentially warehouse/logistics teams.

• Local Autonomy: As a regional bottler, there's likely a blend of adhering to national Coca-Cola standards while having local decision-making authority for product strategy and commercialization.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decisions: The role requires using forecasting and inventory data to inform purchasing and commercialization strategies.

• Process Optimization: Continuous improvement is expected in demand planning, procurement efficiency, and product lifecycle management.

• Customer-Centric Approach: Supporting retail partners and distributors with product availability and promotional efforts is key.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as dynamic, requiring flexibility and a team-based attitude. This suggests an environment that values proactive problem-solving and adaptability, common in distribution and sales operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level position within operations or sales support, requiring a blend of analytical skills and execution capabilities. It's a step beyond entry-level procurement or inventory roles, offering exposure to product strategy and commercialization.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Sales Manager, Operations Manager, or a Director of Commercial Operations, with dotted-line reporting or strong collaboration with Sales, Marketing, and Supply Chain functions.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts revenue by ensuring product availability for sales channels, supporting promotional effectiveness through adequate stock, and contributing to brand performance by managing the product lifecycle. Efficient operations here translate to increased sales and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in supply chain management, demand planning, or product commercialization.

• Leadership: Potential to move into roles managing larger teams or broader operational areas within the company or the Coca-Cola system.

• Strategic Planning: Transition into more strategic roles focused on market analysis, new product development, or overall business planning.

• Industry Advancement: Develop a strong foundation for career growth within the broader food and beverage or consumer goods industries.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a solid foundation for a career in operations or sales support, with clear pathways for specialization and advancement within the Coca-Cola system or the wider CPG/distribution sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role based at the Durango Coca-Cola Bottling Company facility. It will involve a mix of office-based work for planning and analysis, and potential interaction within warehouse or operational areas.

Office Location(s): 75 Girard St., Durango, CO 81303. This location is accessible for local candidates.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic office setting that encourages interaction with sales teams, operational staff, and management.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard office equipment, computers with MS Office suite, and potentially specialized inventory or CRM systems.

• Team Interaction: Frequent collaboration with sales representatives, warehouse staff, and management to ensure product flow and customer satisfaction.

Work Schedule: Primarily Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Flexibility may be required during peak promotional periods or to address urgent supply chain issues, aligning with the dynamic nature of the beverage distribution business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement signifies a hands-on role where understanding the operational realities of product distribution is crucial for effective strategy and commercialization.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or hiring manager reviews applications and resumes, focusing on relevant experience in procurement, forecasting, and inventory management.

• Skills Assessment: May include an Excel-based assessment to evaluate proficiency in data analysis, forecasting, and reporting.

• Behavioral Interview: Questions will assess teamwork, conflict resolution, adaptability, self-awareness, integrity, communication, and stress management, drawing from the "Purchasing Agent Key Competencies" section.

• Technical Interview: Deeper dive into experience with demand planning, inventory control, supplier management, and commercialization strategies. Candidates may be asked to walk through past projects or problem-solving scenarios.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each portfolio item, clearly state the impact using numbers and metrics (e.g., "Reduced inventory holding costs by 15%," "Improved forecast accuracy by 10%," "Successfully launched 5 new products on time and within budget").

• Showcase Process: Detail the steps taken in your portfolio examples, emphasizing your problem-solving approach, analytical methods, and collaboration strategies.

• Highlight Tools: Explicitly mention the tools and software used (especially Excel) and how they facilitated your work.

• Tailor to Role: Emphasize examples most relevant to demand planning, procurement, inventory management, and commercialization within a product distribution context.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to managing stockouts, dealing with supplier issues, or planning for a major promotional event.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, explaining the "why" behind your proposed solutions.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the Coca-Cola product portfolio and the dynamics of beverage distribution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both technical operational skills and crucial soft skills like communication and conflict resolution, reflecting the company's emphasis on teamwork and professionalism. A well-curated portfolio is key to demonstrating practical experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • Excel: Essential for demand planning, forecasting, data analysis, inventory reconciliation, cost evaluation, and reporting. Expect advanced usage (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, complex formulas).
  • Outlook: For communication with internal teams and external suppliers.
  • Word: For documentation and reports.

• Inventory Management Systems: While not explicitly named, experience with any inventory tracking or ERP system is highly beneficial.

• Procurement Software: Familiarity with purchasing order systems or supplier management platforms.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel-based Dashboards: Likely responsible for creating reports and dashboards within Excel to track KPIs.

• Business Intelligence Tools: Potential exposure to BI tools if the company utilizes them for broader sales and operations analytics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: May interact with a CRM system to understand sales forecasts and customer demand patterns.

• Automation: While not a primary focus, any experience with automating repetitive tasks in Excel or through other means would be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is paramount for this role, serving as the primary tool for data analysis, reporting, and operational planning. Familiarity with broader supply chain or ERP systems would be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Teamwork & Collaboration: A core value, emphasizing shared responsibility and mutual support across departments.

• Process-Oriented & Solution-Focused: Encourages a methodical approach to problem-solving with an emphasis on finding practical, effective solutions.

• Professionalism & Integrity: Maintaining accountability and representing the Coca-Cola brand with authenticity and respect.

• Adaptability & Flexibility: Thriving in a dynamic environment by adjusting to changing conditions and customer needs.

• Customer Service Excellence: Commitment to supporting retail partners, distributors, and internal teams positively.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Clear, professional, and timely communication is expected.

• Empathy & Emotional Regulation: Interacting with colleagues and external partners with understanding and composure, especially during challenging situations.

• Inclusivity: Fostering a positive and inclusive work environment that values diverse perspectives.

• Solution-Oriented: Working collaboratively to identify and implement solutions that benefit the business and its partners.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes strong interpersonal skills, a proactive mindset, and a commitment to teamwork, which are critical for success in a fast-paced distribution environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Inventory: Managing inventory levels to meet demand without incurring excessive holding costs or product obsolescence, especially with a wide product range and promotional fluctuations.

• Supplier Reliability: Ensuring consistent supply and quality from vendors, and effectively managing any disruptions or performance issues.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Effectively coordinating with Sales and Marketing to ensure their initiatives are supported by adequate product availability and timely introductions.

• Dynamic Market Conditions: Adapting to changing consumer preferences, competitor activities, and economic factors that impact demand.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Supply Chain Expertise: Deepen knowledge in demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and logistics management.

• Commercial Acumen: Gain practical experience in product commercialization, trade marketing, and go-to-market strategies.

• Negotiation Skills: Develop stronger negotiation capabilities with suppliers and distribution partners.

• System Proficiency: Potentially gain experience with more advanced ERP or supply chain planning software if implemented.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead projects or mentor junior team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex supply chain challenges and develop a well-rounded understanding of product commercialization within a major consumer brand.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to forecast demand for a new product. What was your process, and what challenges did you face?" (Focus on data sources, assumptions, and risk mitigation.)

• "How do you balance maintaining sufficient inventory levels with minimizing carrying costs and product spoilage?" (Highlight your understanding of inventory metrics and optimization techniques.)

• "Walk me through your experience in managing supplier relationships. How do you ensure performance and resolve issues?" (Emphasize communication, data-driven feedback, and partnership building.)

• "Imagine a major promotional campaign is planned for next month, but there's a potential supplier delay. What steps would you take?" (Demonstrate proactive problem-solving, communication, and contingency planning.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Durango Coca-Cola Bottling Company specifically?" (Research their local impact, history, and connection to the community.)

• "How do you approach working in a dynamic, ever-changing environment?" (Relate to your adaptability and problem-solving skills.)

• "Describe a situation where you had to collaborate closely with a Sales team. What was your role, and what was the outcome?" (Showcase your ability to support sales objectives.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your case studies: Problem -> Solution -> Result. Clearly articulate the challenge, the steps you took (including tools and analysis), and the quantifiable outcome.

• Focus on metrics: For inventory and procurement roles, demonstrating ROI, cost savings, efficiency gains, or accuracy improvements is crucial.

• Be ready to discuss Excel: Prepare to explain your Excel methodologies and potentially demonstrate a specific analysis if asked.

• Showcase collaboration: Highlight instances where your work directly supported Sales or Marketing initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their operational expertise using specific examples and demonstrate how they embody the company's values of teamwork, professionalism, and adaptability.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Strategy and Commercialization Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Paycom link: https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/AB7CEAF43E451EA8D76650BD6C3C7C37/jobs/148021

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight keywords related to demand planning, procurement, inventory management, forecasting, commercialization, and MS Excel proficiency. Quantify your achievements with specific metrics.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Select 2-3 strong examples that showcase your skills in demand forecasting, procurement optimization, or product commercialization. Be ready to discuss the process, your role, and the results.

• Practice Interview Responses: Review the "Interview Preparation" section and practice answering behavioral and technical questions, focusing on the "Purchasing Agent Key Competencies" outlined in the job description.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Durango Coca-Cola Bottling Company's operations, local presence, and the broader Coca-Cola brand to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.