IT Product Manager - Heating Operations in Lawrence, Massachusetts at Haffner's

Job Summary

The IT Product Manager – Heating Operations is responsible for the strategy, performance, and continuous improvement of the systems that power Haffner’s heating oil, propane, and service operations. This role serves as the primary liaison between IT, business stakeholders, and third-party vendors to ensure systems are aligned with operational needs, scalable, and delivering measurable value.

This position owns the lifecycle of core platforms—including CarGas Energy ERP, customer portals, reporting tools, and integrations. Drives prioritization, enhancement, and adoption across the Heating Operations business.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Product Ownership & Strategy

• Define, maintain, and execute the product roadmap for Heating Operations systems, including CarGas and related technologies
• Align technology initiatives with business goals through ongoing stakeholder engagement and market awareness
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, customer experience, and data visibility

Stakeholder & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with operations, dispatch, customer service, accounting, and sales to gather requirements and prioritize initiatives
• Serve as the central point of contact for all Heating Operations technology needs
• Translate business requirements into system solutions and actionable deliverables

System Management & Continuous Improvement

• Oversee system configuration, enhancements, and optimization of core applications
• Drive data integrity initiatives, including data cleansing, enrichment, and reporting improvements
• Leverage SQL, BI tools (e.g., Targit), and integrations to enhance reporting and decision-making

Issue Resolution & Support

• Manage and resolve system issues and user inquiries in a timely and effective manner
• Coordinate with external vendors and partners to troubleshoot and resolve complex issues
• Ensure consistent system performance and reliability

Release Management & Change Adoption

• Plan, coordinate, and communicate system releases, enhancements, and bug fixes
• Ensure readiness across the business for new functionality through training and support
• Drive user adoption of new features and process improvements

Vendor Management & Industry Engagement

• Serve as the primary liaison with CarGas and other technology vendors
• Advocate for system enhancements and represent Haffner’s in product and industry forums
• Evaluate new tools, technologies, and vendor solutions to support business growth

Training & Enablement

• Develop and deliver training for internal teams on system functionality and updates
• Ensure teams are equipped to effectively utilize systems and processes

Project Leadership

• Lead and contribute to cross-functional IT initiatives beyond core applications as needed
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and aligned with business priorities

Skills and Qualifications

1. Strong business acumen with a customer-focused mindset
2. Demonstrated experience in product management, application support, or system implementation
3. Experience with ERP systems (CarGas Energy, PDI, Bluecow, ADD Systems preferred)
4. Proficiency in requirements gathering, solution design, testing, and implementation
5. Working knowledge of SQL, reporting tools, or programming languages (e.g., Python)
6. Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results in a fast-paced environment
7. Strong communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
8. Experience managing third-party vendors and external partners
9. 7+ years of experience in IT, applications, or related discipline

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required
• Relevant certifications (Business Analysis, ITIL, Six Sigma, Project Management, etc.) preferred

Expectations

1. Acts as a trusted advisor to the business and a key partner to Heating Operations leadership
2. Proactively identifies and delivers system improvements that drive measurable business outcomes
3. Maintains high standards for data accuracy, system performance, and user experience
4. Communicates clearly, consistently, and effectively across technical and non-technical stakeholders
5. Demonstrates ownership, accountability, and follow-through on all initiatives and issues
6. Stays informed on industry trends and emerging technologies to keep Haffner’s competitive

Job Environment:

Primarily based in an office setting, working within the IT department while supporting Heating Operations across multiple locations. Regular collaboration with cross-functional teams, including operations, dispatch, customer service, accounting, and sales. Frequent interaction with third-party vendors, technology partners, and external user communities. Combination of independent work and team-based projects requiring strong prioritization and time management. Fast-paced, evolving environment requiring adaptability, problem-solving, and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously

1. Requires extended periods of sitting, working at a computer, and engaging in virtual and in-person meetings
2. Occasional travel may be required to support field operations, system implementations, or vendor engagements
3. May require after-hours support or flexibility during system upgrades, issue resolution, or critical business needs
4. Primarily sedentary role requiring extended periods of sitting and working at a computer
5. Requires occasional standing, walking, and moving between workspaces or meeting locations
6. May require occasional bending, reaching, and lifting, typically up to 25 pounds (e.g., laptops, equipment, or materials)
7. Ability to operate standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and related technology
8. Must be able to communicate effectively in both virtual and in-person settings
9. Must be able to see, read, and interpret information on computer screens and printed materials, including detailed data and reports, with or without corrective lenses

Haffner's: A Regional Leader Fueled by Family, Integrity, and Safety. At Haffner's, we're more than a company – we're a family. As a prominent wholesale fuel distributor in New England, we've established a strong presence, managing gas stations, convenience stores, car washes, and food service locations. Our renowned Haffner's brand operates across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. We go beyond fuel distribution, offering heating oil, propane, and HVAC services to 45,000 customers across the region. Our commitment to integrity and safety is unwavering; it's in everything we do. We prioritize building relationships and consistently doing the right thing. Our culture thrives on growth, innovation, and excellence. As a part of our team, you'll contribute to our ongoing success, embracing the core values of "Fueled by Family," "Do the right thing," "Safety in everything we do,” and “Be resourceful.”

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the jobholder and are not to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the jobholder.

Haffner’s is committed to equal employment opportunities and providing reasonable accommodation for those with physical and/or mental disabilities. We value and encourage diversity and do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, change of sex or transgender status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.

Haffner’s is committed to providing a safe work environment for all employees.

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