Persons who specialize in new product planning can find opportunities in the marketing of consumer products, consumer services, hospital and medical services, and public service programs. Persons involved in new product planning develop skills in understanding marketing research, sales forecasting, and promotional planning. Career Opportunities Career opportunities exist in the consumer industries, advertising agencies, consulting firms, public agencies, medical agencies, retailing management, and many more. This broad set of industries offers a very promising career potential for the marketing planner. Entry Level Positions Formal positions in product planning are becoming plentiful.
Large firms have such positions in staff departments.
The MBA, though not a requirement everywhere, does appear to be the level sought for these positions. Requisite Personal Qualities New product work demands a unique combination of creative and analytical talents. Unlike managing an existing business, new product development is ever changing and requires a person with a high degree of tolerance for uncertainty. The uncertainty and pressures of new product work are compensated by the fun of giving birth to new entrants to the market. Academic Preparation Anyone desiring this career path should take course work in product planning, marketing research, consumer behavior and advertising.