Global Data Manager

About Us:

Founded in 1966, Niterra North America, Inc. (formerly NGK Spark Plugs) is a global leader in spark plug and oxygen sensor design, driven by technology, innovation, and world-class quality. Today, that tradition continues as we transform our organization's portfolio, expand our core ceramic technologies, explore capabilities beyond traditional areas, and challenge ourselves to develop solutions and services that leverage technology to address social issues while contributing to a sustainable society.

Summary:

The Global Data Manager leads the global product data strategy for Niterra's new aftermarket product lines, managing the central master database and vehicle application records across regional catalog standards such as ACES/PIES and TecDoc. This role establishes data governance frameworks and standards, oversees competitor and OEM interchange mappings, and partners closely with the Global Product Managers on catalog gap analysis, new part introductions, and product lifecycle decisions. The ideal candidate combines deep aftermarket cataloging expertise with the diplomacy to align regional teams, suppliers, and global stakeholders on data standards and timelines.

Classification: Salary, Exempt

Salary Range: $120,000-$135,000 per year

Work Model: Hybrid for candidates within commuting distance of Wixom, MI; 100% Remote for US-based candidates outside the area.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the global product data strategy, managing the central master database and vehicle application records across regional catalog standards (ACES/PIES, TecDoc, etc.).
• Support regional data teams by establishing standardized data governance frameworks and providing oversight and validation for local catalog linkages.
• Oversee the development, integration, and continuous maintenance of competitor SKU and OEM part number interchange mappings.
• Implement, populate, and administer central range management tools to ensure data consistency across all systems.
• Partner with Product Management to conduct regular catalog gap analyses and drive product range extensions.
• Contribute to the New Part Introduction (NPI) process through cross-functional collaboration with regional entities, Global Product Managers, manufacturing facilities, and suppliers.
• Conduct product lifecycle analyses across product lines and execute structured obsolescence and phase-out procedures.
• Research market data and assist in developing robust business cases to evaluate new product categories or geographic market expansions.
• Help develop pricing strategy through competitive benchmarking, market research, and actionable recommendations.
• Perform ongoing sales, demand, and market trend analysis to inform strategic product line decisions.
• Complete other job-related tasks as assigned.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures as applicable.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of progressive experience in automotive aftermarket data management or cataloging.
• Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Automotive Engineering, or a related discipline; equivalent global aftermarket experience considered.
• Demonstrated expertise in automotive cataloging standards (ACES, PIES, TecDoc, and regional standards) and Product Information Management Systems (PIMS).
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills, with proven experience in data modeling, statistical processes, competitive profiling, and program analysis.
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills, with demonstrated diplomacy and collaboration across global business units in the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, as well as global headquarters in Japan.
• Flexibility to join early-morning and evening meetings across global time zones (Europe, Japan, Australia).
• Professional certifications in data management or analytics preferred.
• Fluency in Japanese or German preferred.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

This role requires domestic and international business travel (up to 15%), operating a vehicle, lifting up to 40 lbs., and working around normal office and travel-related hazards.

What We Offer:

• Comprehensive Health Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Financial Security: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a generous company match of up to 6%.
• Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Work-Life Balance: Paid maternity and paternity leave.
• And much more!

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Niterra is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

Notice to Staffing Firms:

Niterra does not seek or accept unsolicited resumes or CVs from recruitment agencies. We are not responsible for, and will not pay, any fees, commissions, or other payments related to unsolicited resumes or CVs, except as required by a written contract between Niterra and the recruitment agency or party requesting payment of a fee.

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