Project Manager - GPD

As a Project Manager at Fortune Brands Innovations, Inc., your primary responsibilities will include leading cross-functional teams through the entire lifecycle of Global Product Development (GPD) projects. You'll ensure that projects meet stringent timing, performance, quality, and cost objectives. Your role will involve utilizing the Project & Portfolio Management (PPM) system to plan and track activities and ensuring discipline within the project teams. Collaboration across departments is critical, as is guaranteeing that the projects are delivered on time and meet all specified deliverables.

To qualify for the Project Manager position at Fortune Brands Innovations, Inc., candidates need a bachelor's degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, or a related field, with a preference for advanced degrees. Additionally, a minimum of three years of experience leading cross-functional teams in product development is essential, along with knowledge of project management methodologies. PMI PMP certification and experience with Agile methodologies will enhance your application, making you well-suited for this role.

At Fortune Brands Innovations, Inc., the career progression for a Project Manager is promising, given the emphasis on professional growth and development. Starting as a Project Manager, you can leverage the experience gained in leading cross-functional teams and managing projects to advance into senior project management roles or specialize in specific areas such as product development or supply chain optimization. The company values internal mobility and promotes from within, providing various training programs to help you reach your potential.

As a Project Manager at Fortune Brands Innovations, Inc., you will utilize various tools and methodologies, including the Global Plumbing Group's Project & Portfolio Management (PPM) system for planning and tracking. You'll also rely on the GPG's Product Development Process, project management toolsets (like MS Project), and project execution best practices to ensure successful project delivery. Familiarity with Agile methodologies will be advantageous as you lead teams through dynamic project environments.

Fortune Brands Innovations, Inc. fosters a vibrant and inclusive company culture that encourages team members to express their authentic selves. The company believes in diversity as a key strength and empowers employees to think big, learn fast, and make bold decisions. You'll find a supportive environment where collaboration flourishes, and every voice is valued. Additionally, Fortune Brands offers various employee resource groups and initiatives aimed at promoting well-being and inclusivity across the workforce.

As a Project Manager, my approach to managing cross-functional teams revolves around fostering open communication and collaboration. I ensure that every team member is aware of their roles and responsibilities, which helps in aligning our goals. Regular check-ins and status updates keep everyone informed, while a focus on resolving conflicts quickly ensures that we stay productive and meet our deliverables.

I ensure projects are completed on time and within budget by thorough planning and proactively managing scope and resources. Utilizing project management tools, I set clear timelines and budgets, regularly monitor progress, and adjust plans as needed. Implementing risk management strategies also helps in anticipating challenges before they escalate, ensuring smoother execution of the project.

When resolving conflicts within my project team, I prioritize open dialogue and seek to understand varying perspectives. I facilitate discussions that allow team members to voice their concerns and collaborate on solutions. By focusing on shared goals and fostering a supportive environment, we can often turn conflicts into opportunities for growth and improvement.

In a previous role, I led a project that encountered unexpected delays due to supply chain issues. I tackled this by organizing a brainstorming session with my team to explore alternative solutions, while transparent communication with stakeholders kept everyone informed. We adjusted the timeline and prioritized key deliverables while incorporating contingency plans, ultimately leading to successful project completion.

In a fast-paced environment, I prioritize tasks by evaluating their impact on project goals and deadlines. I utilize project management software to visualize timelines and dependencies, allowing me to identify critical path activities. By maintaining flexibility and regularly reassessing priorities based on team input and emerging challenges, I can adapt quickly while keeping the project on track.

Key performance indicators (KPIs) I track for project success include on-time delivery, budget adherence, quality metrics, and stakeholder satisfaction. These KPIs offer a comprehensive view of our progress and effectiveness, helping us identify areas for improvement and ensuring that we meet our objectives consistently.

I have extensive experience with various project management tools and methodologies, including Agile and traditional Waterfall approaches. Familiarity with software such as MS Project and PPM systems has enabled me to effectively manage project timelines and resources. Adopting the right methodology for the team and project requirements is crucial; I focus on maintaining flexibility to adapt to various working styles.

To foster collaboration among team members from diverse backgrounds, I create an inclusive environment by encouraging open discussions and celebrating each person's unique contributions. I promote team-building activities that strengthen interpersonal relationships and ensure everyone feels valued. Regularly soliciting feedback and providing opportunities for all voices to be heard are key components of my approach.

I'm motivated by the opportunity to bring innovative ideas to life and see the direct impact of our projects on users' lives. Guiding teams through challenges and watching their skills grow fuels my passion for project management. The collaborative and dynamic nature of the job keeps me excited and engaged as we strive to meet and exceed expectations.

I handle stakeholder communication by providing regular updates that are tailored to the audience's needs. Utilizing various formats such as reports, presentations, and meetings allows me to keep stakeholders informed and engaged. I emphasize transparency, sharing both successes and challenges, which builds trust and ensures that everyone involved is aligned on the project's status.