Types of Product Manager Jobs
Technical Product Manager
A Technical Product Manager focuses on the technical aspects of product development, often working closely with engineering teams. They bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders. Their responsibilities include defining technical requirements, prioritizing features, and ensuring the product aligns with the company’s technology strategy. They often have a background in software engineering or computer science. This role is crucial in tech-driven companies where products are highly technical.
Growth Product Manager
A Growth Product Manager is responsible for driving user acquisition, engagement, and retention. They use data-driven strategies to identify growth opportunities and optimize the product for key metrics. This role often involves running experiments, A/B testing, and collaborating with marketing teams. Growth PMs focus on scaling the product and increasing its market share. Their work is highly analytical and results-oriented.
Platform Product Manager
Platform Product Managers oversee the development and management of platforms that support multiple products or services. They ensure the platform is scalable, reliable, and meets the needs of internal and external users. This role requires strong technical knowledge and the ability to coordinate across various teams. Platform PMs often work in companies with complex product ecosystems. Their focus is on building foundational technology that enables other products to succeed.
Consumer Product Manager
Consumer Product Managers focus on products designed for end-users or consumers. They are responsible for understanding customer needs, defining product features, and ensuring a great user experience. This role involves market research, user testing, and close collaboration with design and engineering teams. Consumer PMs aim to deliver products that delight users and drive business growth. Their work is highly customer-centric.
Enterprise Product Manager
Enterprise Product Managers manage products targeted at business customers or organizations. They work on complex solutions that address the needs of large clients, often involving customization and integration. This role requires strong communication skills to interact with stakeholders and understand business requirements. Enterprise PMs focus on delivering value to organizations and supporting long-term business relationships. Their work often involves longer sales cycles and higher product complexity.
Entry Level Job Titles
Associate Product Manager
An Associate Product Manager (APM) is an entry-level role designed for individuals starting their career in product management. APMs work under the guidance of more experienced product managers and assist with various tasks such as market research, user feedback analysis, and feature prioritization. They learn the fundamentals of product development and gain exposure to cross-functional teams. This role is often part of a rotational program in larger companies. It provides a strong foundation for advancing to higher product management roles.
Product Analyst
A Product Analyst supports the product team by analyzing data, conducting market research, and generating insights to inform product decisions. They help track product performance metrics and identify areas for improvement. This role is ideal for individuals with strong analytical skills and an interest in product development. Product Analysts often collaborate with product managers, engineers, and designers. The experience gained in this role can lead to a transition into a full product manager position.
Junior Product Manager
A Junior Product Manager is an entry-level position that involves assisting senior product managers with day-to-day tasks. They help with writing product requirements, coordinating with development teams, and managing project timelines. This role provides hands-on experience in the product lifecycle and exposure to different aspects of product management. Junior PMs gradually take on more responsibility as they gain experience. It is a common stepping stone to more advanced product management roles.
Product Coordinator
A Product Coordinator supports the product management team by handling administrative tasks, scheduling meetings, and ensuring smooth communication between teams. They may also assist with documentation, product launches, and customer feedback collection. This role is suitable for individuals looking to enter the product management field and learn about the product development process. Product Coordinators often move into more strategic roles as they gain experience. The position helps build organizational and project management skills.
Product Management Intern
A Product Management Intern is a temporary, entry-level role for students or recent graduates interested in product management. Interns work on specific projects, conduct research, and support the product team in various tasks. They gain exposure to the product development process and learn from experienced professionals. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Successful interns may receive full-time offers upon graduation.
Mid Level Job Titles
Product Manager
A Product Manager is responsible for the end-to-end management of a product or product line. They define the product vision, gather and prioritize requirements, and work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver successful products. Product Managers analyze market trends, customer feedback, and business goals to make informed decisions. They are accountable for the product’s success and performance metrics. This role requires strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Product Owner
A Product Owner is a mid-level role often found in Agile development environments. They act as the voice of the customer and are responsible for defining and prioritizing the product backlog. Product Owners work closely with development teams to ensure that features are delivered according to requirements. They bridge the gap between business stakeholders and technical teams. This role requires a deep understanding of both the product and the user’s needs.
Technical Product Manager
A Technical Product Manager at the mid-level is responsible for managing products with significant technical complexity. They work closely with engineering teams to define technical requirements and ensure alignment with the company’s technology strategy. This role involves translating business needs into technical solutions. Technical PMs often have a background in engineering or computer science. They play a key role in delivering technically robust products.
Growth Product Manager
A Growth Product Manager at the mid-level focuses on driving user growth and engagement. They use data analysis, experimentation, and optimization techniques to improve key metrics. This role involves working with marketing, engineering, and design teams to implement growth strategies. Growth PMs are highly analytical and results-driven. They play a crucial role in scaling the product and expanding its user base.
Platform Product Manager
A Platform Product Manager at the mid-level manages the development and maintenance of platforms that support multiple products. They ensure the platform is scalable, reliable, and meets the needs of various stakeholders. This role requires strong technical knowledge and the ability to coordinate across teams. Platform PMs focus on building foundational technology that enables other products to succeed. They are essential in companies with complex product ecosystems.
Senior Level Job Titles
Senior Product Manager
A Senior Product Manager leads the strategy and execution for one or more products. They are responsible for setting the product vision, defining the roadmap, and ensuring alignment with business objectives. Senior PMs mentor junior team members and often manage cross-functional teams. They handle complex product challenges and make high-impact decisions. This role requires extensive experience and a proven track record of delivering successful products.
Lead Product Manager
A Lead Product Manager oversees a team of product managers and is responsible for the success of multiple products or a product portfolio. They set strategic direction, allocate resources, and ensure that all products align with company goals. Lead PMs work closely with executives and other department heads. They play a key role in shaping the overall product strategy. This position requires strong leadership and organizational skills.
Principal Product Manager
A Principal Product Manager is a senior expert who leads high-impact, complex product initiatives. They are responsible for defining long-term product strategy and driving innovation. Principal PMs often work on the most critical products or features within a company. They influence company-wide product decisions and mentor other product managers. This role requires deep expertise and significant industry experience.
Group Product Manager
A Group Product Manager leads a group of product managers and oversees a suite of related products. They are responsible for setting the vision and strategy for their product group. Group PMs coordinate efforts across multiple teams and ensure alignment with business objectives. They play a key role in talent development and organizational growth. This role requires strong leadership and strategic thinking.
Product Strategy Manager
A Product Strategy Manager focuses on long-term product planning and market positioning. They analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and customer needs to inform product strategy. This role involves working closely with senior leadership to define the product roadmap. Product Strategy Managers help ensure the company’s products remain competitive and aligned with business goals. They play a critical role in shaping the future direction of the product portfolio.
Director Level Job Titles
Director of Product Management
The Director of Product Management leads the product management function within an organization. They are responsible for setting the overall product strategy, managing a team of product managers, and ensuring alignment with company objectives. Directors work closely with executive leadership to drive business growth through product innovation. They oversee the entire product lifecycle and are accountable for the success of the product portfolio. This role requires strong leadership, strategic vision, and extensive product management experience.
Director of Product Strategy
A Director of Product Strategy focuses on defining and executing the long-term vision for the company’s products. They analyze market trends, customer needs, and competitive dynamics to inform strategic decisions. This role involves close collaboration with other senior leaders to ensure the product portfolio supports business objectives. Directors of Product Strategy lead cross-functional initiatives and drive innovation. They play a key role in shaping the company’s future direction.
Director of Product Development
The Director of Product Development oversees the creation and launch of new products. They manage teams of product managers, designers, and engineers to ensure timely and successful product releases. This role involves setting development priorities, allocating resources, and resolving roadblocks. Directors of Product Development work closely with other departments to align product development with business goals. They are responsible for delivering high-quality products that meet customer needs.
Director of Product Operations
A Director of Product Operations is responsible for optimizing the processes and systems that support product management. They focus on improving efficiency, communication, and collaboration across teams. This role involves implementing best practices, managing tools, and ensuring smooth product launches. Directors of Product Operations work closely with product managers and other leaders to drive operational excellence. They play a critical role in scaling the product management function.
Director of Product Marketing
The Director of Product Marketing leads the team responsible for positioning, messaging, and go-to-market strategies for products. They work closely with product managers to ensure successful product launches and market adoption. This role involves developing marketing plans, conducting market research, and managing product communications. Directors of Product Marketing collaborate with sales, engineering, and customer success teams. They are accountable for driving product awareness and revenue growth.
VP Level Job Titles
Vice President of Product Management
The Vice President of Product Management is a senior executive responsible for the overall product strategy and vision of the company. They lead the entire product management organization and work closely with other executives to drive business growth. VPs of Product Management set high-level goals, allocate resources, and ensure alignment across teams. They are accountable for the success of the product portfolio and its impact on company performance. This role requires exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and industry expertise.
Vice President of Product Development
The Vice President of Product Development oversees the creation and delivery of new products and features. They manage large teams of product managers, engineers, and designers. This role involves setting development priorities, managing budgets, and ensuring products meet market needs. VPs of Product Development work closely with other executives to align product development with business objectives. They play a key role in driving innovation and maintaining a competitive edge.
Vice President of Product Strategy
The Vice President of Product Strategy is responsible for defining and executing the company’s long-term product vision. They analyze market trends, customer needs, and competitive dynamics to inform strategic decisions. This role involves working with other executives to ensure the product portfolio supports business goals. VPs of Product Strategy lead cross-functional initiatives and drive organizational change. They are instrumental in shaping the company’s future direction.
Vice President of Product Marketing
The Vice President of Product Marketing leads the team responsible for go-to-market strategies, product positioning, and messaging. They work closely with product management, sales, and customer success teams to ensure successful product launches. This role involves developing marketing plans, managing budgets, and driving product adoption. VPs of Product Marketing are accountable for revenue growth and market share. They play a critical role in the company’s overall success.
Vice President of Product Operations
The Vice President of Product Operations oversees the processes and systems that support the product management function. They focus on improving efficiency, scalability, and collaboration across teams. This role involves implementing best practices, managing tools, and ensuring smooth product launches. VPs of Product Operations work closely with other executives to drive operational excellence. They are responsible for scaling the product management organization as the company grows.
How to Advance Your Current Product Manager Title
Gain Cross-Functional Experience
To advance as a Product Manager, seek opportunities to work with different teams such as engineering, design, marketing, and sales. This will help you develop a holistic understanding of the product lifecycle and business operations. Cross-functional experience demonstrates your ability to collaborate and lead diverse teams. It also prepares you for more senior roles that require broader organizational knowledge. Proactively volunteering for cross-team projects can accelerate your career growth.
Develop Strong Analytical Skills
Product Managers need to make data-driven decisions. Improving your analytical skills by learning how to interpret data, conduct market research, and use analytics tools will make you more effective in your role. Strong analytical abilities help you identify opportunities, measure success, and justify your decisions to stakeholders. Consider taking courses in data analysis or business intelligence. Demonstrating your ability to leverage data can set you apart for promotions.
Build Leadership and Communication Skills
As you progress in your product management career, leadership and communication become increasingly important. Practice leading meetings, presenting to executives, and mentoring junior team members. Effective communication helps you align stakeholders and drive product vision. Leadership skills are essential for managing teams and influencing company strategy. Seek feedback and invest in professional development to strengthen these areas.
Deliver Impactful Results
Consistently delivering successful products and achieving key business metrics is crucial for advancement. Focus on projects that have a measurable impact on the company’s goals. Track your achievements and be prepared to showcase them during performance reviews. Taking ownership of high-visibility initiatives can help you stand out. Demonstrating a track record of impact increases your chances of promotion.
Pursue Advanced Education or Certifications
Obtaining advanced degrees or certifications in product management, business, or related fields can enhance your qualifications. Many organizations value formal education and specialized training. Certifications such as Pragmatic Institute, AIPMM, or Scrum can demonstrate your commitment to professional growth. Continuing education keeps you updated on industry best practices. It can also expand your professional network and open doors to new opportunities.
Similar Product Manager Careers & Titles
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects within a specified timeline and budget. While they focus on project delivery, Product Managers are responsible for the overall success and strategy of a product. Both roles require strong organizational and leadership skills. Project Managers often work closely with Product Managers to ensure successful product launches. The main difference lies in their focus: projects versus products.
Program Manager
A Program Manager oversees multiple related projects and ensures they align with the organization’s strategic goals. They coordinate efforts across teams and manage dependencies between projects. Program Managers often work with Product Managers to ensure product initiatives fit within the broader program objectives. This role requires strong leadership and cross-functional coordination skills. Program Managers focus on achieving long-term business outcomes.
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst identifies business needs and recommends solutions to improve processes or products. They gather and analyze data, document requirements, and work with stakeholders to ensure successful project outcomes. Business Analysts often collaborate with Product Managers to define product features and requirements. This role requires strong analytical and communication skills. Business Analysts focus more on process improvement, while Product Managers focus on product strategy and delivery.
Product Marketing Manager
A Product Marketing Manager is responsible for positioning, messaging, and go-to-market strategies for products. They work closely with Product Managers to ensure successful product launches and market adoption. Product Marketing Managers focus on understanding customer needs, competitive analysis, and driving product awareness. This role requires strong marketing and communication skills. While Product Managers focus on building the product, Product Marketing Managers focus on promoting it.
Solutions Manager
A Solutions Manager develops and manages solutions that address specific customer needs, often in a B2B context. They work closely with sales, engineering, and product teams to deliver tailored solutions. Solutions Managers need to understand both the technical and business aspects of their offerings. This role requires strong problem-solving and customer-facing skills. Solutions Managers often collaborate with Product Managers to ensure solutions align with product capabilities.