Car Line Planning Manager

ABOUT SUBARU

LOVE. It's what makes Subaru, Subaru. As a leading auto brand in the US, we strive to be More Than a Car Company. Subaru believes in being a positive force in the communities in which we live and work, not just with donations but with actions that set an example for others to follow. That's what we call our Subaru Love Promise.

Subaru is a globally renowned automobile manufacturer known for its commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability. With a rich history dating back to 1953, Subaru has consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering to deliver vehicles that offer not only exceptional performance but also a unique blend of utility and adventure.

Subaru's company culture is built on collaboration, diversity, and a shared passion for our product. We foster an inclusive environment that encourages employees to bring their unique perspectives and talents to the table. Our team members are driven by a common goal: to create exceptional vehicles that inspire and delight our customers.

SUMMARY

The Car Line Planning Manager leads U.S. market strategy for assigned Subaru vehicle lines, overseeing product planning from concept to launch. This role drives business plans, lineup and pricing strategies, and feature development through research, analysis, and cross-functional collaboration. It serves as the key liaison between Subaru of America (SOA) and Subaru Corporation (SBR) to align on product direction, while presenting proposals to executives, engaging retailers, and supporting launch communications. Requires 8-10 years of experience, strong analytical and project management skills, and a passion for the automotive industry.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develops innovative business plan proposals for assigned vehicles including product concept; model lineups; standard features content; model year changes; and pricing/profitability targets by objectively interpreting and analyzing raw data; sales information; competitive information; and customer, retailer, and Field input; as well as industry publications. Conducts consensus-building activities for assigned vehicle long-, mid-, and short-range product concept and feature proposals for review and approval by senior management. Presents to executive management these innovative, feasible product concept and feature proposals that reflect the requirements of the entire Subaru of America (SOA) organization.
• Works jointly with the assigned vehicles' coordinating manager within Subaru Corporation's (SBR's) North American Sales & Marketing (NASM) department, the SBR Project General Manager, and the SBR Project Team to communicate and implement SOA product concept direction, specifications, model lineup, and component needs within price targets.
• To clarify the early concept proposals for new carlines or full model changes, the following responsibilities may be required: develop target consumer personas; coordinate consumer focus group events; recommend new colors, materials, and finishes; and work with Subaru Research & Development (SRD) offices in Michigan and California to share and gain knowledge needed for future feature and design development.
• Coordinates, as a subject matter expert, the preparation and development of vehicle sales and marketing strategic plans for assigned vehicles by initiating direction through launch meetings and sustaining continuous information flow.
• Manages Subaru retailer product observations and improvement requests and, if applicable, inputs solutions into future product concepts with SBR.
• Communicates to retailers the product concept information for the assigned vehicles through National Retailer Advisory Board (NRAB) product subcommittee meetings, direct input meetings with Region and distributor retailer groups, in-retailer studies, and ongoing communications with key retailers. Presents the future model's new features and design concepts to all retailers at the National Business Conference (NBC). Supports the Corporate Communication's department new model launch press events by presenting new features and benefits to the media attendees.
• Obtains and shares intelligence on the development of long-range product features, attributes, and model lineups in the U.S. market.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree required
• At least 8-10 years required
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, pressured environment in which short-term deadlines and unpredictable extended working hours are a norm.
• Experience analyzing and interpreting large amounts of qualitative and quantitative data in order to develop proposals and recommendations.
• Ability to think creatively and anticipate questions and to proactively address issues.
• Ability to clearly and concisely communicate the results of complex analysis and recommendations to Subaru of America (SOA) senior management.
• Experience building consensus within organization (SOA) and with Subaru Corporation (SBR) counterparts for proposed strategies.
• Strong project management skills.
• Experience managing people or leading teams.
• Automotive industry experience and passion.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Hybrid Role - Remote work 2 days per week (after 90 days) [Wednesdays & Fridays]
• Physical Requirement: Able to lift up to 20+ lbs.
• Driving Required for Role: Valid driver's license required and the incumbent must enroll and maintain approval by internal risk management to operate company vehicles. Able to drive automatic and manual transmission vehicles.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: 30% International & Domestic

COMPENSATION: The recruiting base salary range for this full-time position is $114,800 - 164,000 / year. Within the range, individual pay is determined by factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Additionally, this role is bonus-eligible, with a target bonus percentage that provides an opportunity to earn even more based on your performance. (Internal Job Grade: M2)

WHY JOIN US? In addition to competitive salary, Subaru offers an amazing benefits package that includes:

Total Rewards & Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Plans
• Pension, Profit Sharing, and 401K Match Offerings
• 15 Vacation days, 5 Floating Holidays, 5 Sick days, and 9 Company Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement Program: 15K yearly benefit
• Vehicle Discount Programs

Learning & Development:

• Professional growth and development opportunities
• Direct partnership with senior leadership
• Formal Mentorship Program
• LinkedIn Learning License

Visit our careers landing page for additional information about our compensation and benefit programs.