Global Product Manager – Operations & Innovation

Avolta is a worldwide leader in travel‑retail, convenience and food‑and‑beverage services, operating more than 5,100 points of sale across roughly 1,000 locations in over 70 countries. The Global Product Manager, Operations & Innovation belongs to Avolta NEXT, the company's dedicated engine for transformation and new‑idea implementation, and reports to the Managing Director of that unit. In this position you will steer the worldwide roll‑out of strategic products and operational improvements that have already passed the pilot phase. You will own the product roadmap, define deployment schedules, craft adoption plans and measure the value created. Translating market priorities, operational needs and user feedback into clear product specifications is a core task, as is fostering acceptance across global, regional and local teams. You will also set up governance structures and execution rhythms that keep accountability, alignment and flexibility in balance, while tracking performance against commercial, operational and productivity targets. Close collaboration with senior leaders and cross‑functional partners, including Operations, Data & Analytics, IT, HR and external technology suppliers, is required to replicate successful practices throughout the organisation. The role calls for a solid academic background and extensive professional experience. Candidates need a bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Technology, Operations or a comparable discipline, and should have accumulated eight to twelve or more years in product management, innovation, operational excellence, digital transformation or management consulting. A proven history of directing complex, multi‑country initiatives from concept through large‑scale launch is essential, as is the ability to convert business challenges into scalable, value‑driving solutions. Demonstrated expertise in driving adoption, managing change and aligning stakeholders within a matrix environment is also required. Strong analytical and commercial instincts, data‑informed decision‑making, and the capacity to influence and earn credibility at all organisational levels are critical for success. Experience in retail, food‑and‑beverage, hospitality or other consumer‑facing, multi‑site settings is highly desirable, as is a master's degree. The position is based in Basel until the first quarter of 2027, after which relocation to the Zurich Airport office is planned. The role offers the chance to shape the future operating model of a leading travel‑experience company and to work within a global, high‑impact team. What the role asks for: - Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Technology, Operations or related field - 8‑12+ years product/innovation/operational excellence or consulting experience - Proven record of multi‑country transformation from concept to rollout - Strong ability to turn business challenges into scalable solutions - Demonstrated success driving adoption and change management in matrix orgs - Experience in retail, F&B, hospitality or multi‑site operations (nice‑to‑have) - Master's degree preferred (nice‑to‑have) - Fluent English and willing to travel internationally