Product manager - accessories & special projects

About the Role

We’re looking for a resourceful, driven Product Manager to own Smithey’s accessories category and support special, cross-category projects that extend the brand beyond core cookware. This person will drive products from concept to launch, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure each product upholds the standard of quality, performance and brand integrity. The product manager will be the expert on the category, driving new products while also working to maintain and grow the existing range.

Key Responsibilities

Category Ownership

• Support the strategic roadmap for Smithey’s accessories category (tools, textiles, cookware accessories and other non-cookware items), working closely with the VP of Product Development to prioritize new products and line extensions.
• Track accessories market trends, competitor products, and pricing to help inform category decisions.
• Build and maintain the business case for new accessories initiatives, including opportunity sizing and prioritization.
• Serve as the go-to product resource for the category, supporting Sales and Customer Service with product knowledge and resolving escalated product issues.
• Support special, cross-category projects as assigned, including collaborations, brand partnerships, or initiatives that span cookware and accessories, gaining exposure across the broader product line.

Product Development

• Translate category strategy into clear product briefs and requirements for design and specifications, working closely with the Innovation and Design team.
• Manage timelines and stage-gate milestones for active category projects, through cross-functional teamwork, partnering with Design, Sourcing and Manufacturing on development and production feasibility.
• Partner with Marketing and Sales on go-to-market plans and launch materials and execute packaging development and product education tools for the category.
• Work with outside suppliers and vendors, communicating effectively and serving as Smithey's representative in every interaction.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Abilities

• A fast learner who is coachable and eager to build strong product management fundamentals.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to juggle multiple projects at once.
• Good communication and collaboration skills - comfortable working cross-functionally and asking questions when needed.
• A roll-up-your-sleeves attitude, willing to jump in where needed to support a fast-growing team.
• Bonus: Love of craftsmanship, cooking, or heritage-inspired design.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree required. 3-5 years of experience in product development, product management, or brand marketing - ideally in a consumer goods or manufacturing environment.

Selection Process and Assessments

As part of our selection process, candidates who move forward after the initial application review will be asked to complete the Predictive Index Behavioral Assessment. This brief, untimed assessment helps Smithey better understand a candidate’s natural work style and how they may collaborate within our team. Assessment results are one of several factors considered alongside experience, qualifications, and interview performance, and are not used as a sole pass/fail screen.

Offers of employment may be contingent on successful completion of a pre-employment background check and, where applicable, a drug screen, consistent with Smithey policy and applicable law.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Smithey Ironware Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. All employment decisions - including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, discipline, and termination - are made on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

Reasonable Accommodation

Smithey Ironware is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants and employees who have sincerely held religious beliefs, observances, or practices. Applicants who require an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process may contact Human Resources at hr@smithey.com.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Smithey Ironware participates in E-Verify, the federal program that electronically confirms employment eligibility, as required by South Carolina law.