Product Manager - Battery Systems

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for electrification and cutting-edge battery technologies? Do you thrive at the intersection of innovation, engineering, and market strategy? Ready to shape the future of sustainable off-highway machinery in a global, cross-functional environment? Then this is your next big move.

We’re looking for a visionary Product Manager - Battery Systems to join our Strategy Department.

As the Product Manager for Battery Systems, you will oversee all aspects of battery technology projects within Yanmar's groundbreaking electric off-highway machines. Your role will involve managing the lifecycle of battery systems, from concept and development to implementation and performance optimization. Collaborating with global teams in Japan and the Netherlands, you will ensure that our battery solutions meet the highest standards of innovation, safety, and efficiency. You will be the strategic leader driving product vision, aligning it with Yanmar's mission to lead the off-highway electrification market, and ensuring our products meet market demands.

But before we tell you more about this opportunity, let us introduce ourselves!

ABOUT US

At Yanmar, we are committed to building a sustainable future. In April 2025, we launched the Electrification Unit (ELU) to lead the transformation of compact off-highway machinery through innovative zero-emission solutions. ELU focuses on developing a diverse portfolio of e-powertrain technologies, including batteries and eDrives, to electrify applications such as excavators, wheel loaders, and other industrial machinery.

Operating globally with teams in the Netherlands, Germany, and Japan, ELU leverages Yanmar's extensive resources and technical expertise to deliver efficient, reliable, and high-performance electrification solutions. Our work supports Yanmar’s broader Green Challenge 2050 initiative, reinforcing our commitment to environmental responsibility and carbon reduction.

Joining ELU means becoming part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to innovation and sustainability. Here, your contributions will have a real impact on the future of energy and the development of cleaner, more efficient machinery.

• Develop competitive high-voltage traction battery product roadmap for off-highway electrification.
• Project Oversight: Manage the portfolio of battery projects, ensuring they meet project milestones, budget constraints, and strategic objectives.
• Work directly with multiple stakeholder teams, translating customer and feature needs into requirements for content, metrics, and processes.
• Cross-functional Leadership: Lead cross-functional teams, coordinating efforts across engineering, manufacturing, and marketing to deliver successful battery products.
• Guide strategy organization with customer- & regulatory requirements.
• Analyze the segment & market to continuously improve the roadmap elements (technology trends, market share, benchmarking, etc.).
• Assist strategic procurement team with make-/buy decision making, including cell chemistry & vendor/partner selection.
• Assist marketing activities (sales promotions, advertising, battle cards, articles, video, POS) and their implementation together with marketing teams.
• Operate in a self-directed way, executing with light supervision, effectively establishing yourself as the go-to-person and topic leader from the stakeholder perspective.

Your key responsibilities:

• Responsible for product & technology roadmaps for high-voltage traction batteries for the European off-highway segment.
• Monitoring category KPIs & Profit and Loss to ensure business plan and profitability targets are being met.
• Develop battery recycle and circularity
• Responsible for the technology push via product & portfolio management.
• Responsible for product strategies for new & existing markets.
• Responsible for benchmarking standards and executions.

• 5–7 years of experience as a Product Manager or similar roles, ideally in the automotive, commercial, or off-highway
• Proven track record of managing large-scale projects and leading international, cross-functional teams.
• Deep understanding of battery technologies, including lithium-ion systems, thermal management, and battery safety standards.
• Academic background in electrical, mechanical, or mechatronics engineering.
• Strong understanding and involvement with product development, business case analysis, commercial issues, P&L analysis, and financial reporting.
• Strong team player with high flexibility and openness, capable of working collaboratively within international teams.
• Strong presentation skills and ability to present complex concepts; excellent negotiation skills.
• Proficient in MS Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• International experience or exposure is a plus.
• Proficient oral and written communication in English (Japanese/German is a plus).
• 25–35% domestic & international travel required – visits to customers & global tradeshows.

Our Culture & Values :

At ELU, our mission is clear: to support the growth of our organization by placing people at the heart of everything we do. That means understanding the challenges our employees face, exceeding expectations, and striving for excellence in every area of HR.

With a team made up of diverse backgrounds and cultures, we are an international and inclusive organization where individuality is valued and everyone is welcome. At ELU, you will be recognized for who you are and the unique contributions you bring to our team.

We are committed to fostering a workplace built on respect, equality, and collaboration. We encourage open communication, fresh ideas, and a proactive mindset. You will find an environment where you can think creatively, grow professionally, and help others do the same.

Efficiency, reliability, and innovation are not only the pillars of our products, but they are also the values that shape how we work. They drive us to continuously improve, to reach higher standards, and to learn from one another.

Our Benefits :

We believe our strength lies in the diverse talents and perspectives of our people. At ELU, we offer more than just a position, we offer a place where you can grow, thrive, and truly make a difference.

What you can expect:

• A meaningful role in a forward-thinking organization,
• A supportive and motivated team with a collaborative spirit,
• Competitive and modern employment conditions,
• And plenty of opportunities for personal and professional development.

It’s time to become part of the ELU journey…

Are you ready to take on an exciting challenge in a growing and evolving environment?
Apply now with your CV, we’re already looking forward to meeting you!