Head Product jobs

The head of product leads the product management team. Their primary objectives are to oversee delivery of digital products and applications, driving growth and results in the market. These roles are highly strategic; it is the head of product’s responsibility to outline and create an organisation’s vision in relation to product. They must develop and build new, innovative digital products, while improving existing ones. In some organisations, the remit of this role may cover product marketing. Given the range of responsibilities and seniority of this position, the head of product must possess strong leadership skills, a cool head under pressure and a broad set of technical and managerial skills. This is a senior management role which requires significant business understanding. The weight of responsibility may vary according to the size of the business. At a larger organisation the head of product may report into a director; in start-ups or small and medium-sized enterprises (SME), they will likely assume total responsibility for all products.

Typical tasks of a head of product

The head of product must build, manage and lead a team of product managers, developers and designers. It is the head of product’s responsibility to develop a product plan, assign workloads and monitor progress for each member of the team. Many tasks for the role involve one-to-one management and supervision. The head of product is required to complete a product strategy both for new and existing products, and ensure its delivery. Anyone wishing to become a head of product must have a detailed understanding of how a digital product works in the market. This involves constant research and analysis of existing products within their field. They are required to create a budget, forecast according to performance metrics, and analyse and evaluate product performance. As a member of senior management, the head of product is expected to communicate product strategy to all stakeholders, including at senior executive and board level. 

Qualifications required for a head of product

This role requires a highly qualified, experienced individual. Generally, a successful candidate will have between five and ten years’ experience in a similar role, with a proven track record of delivery in high pressure leadership positions. Head of product jobs are not available to new graduates or school leavers. In terms of university education, a master’s degree or equivalent work experience in computer science, engineering, economics or finance may be required.

Hard/soft skills needed for a head of product

There are a number of hard skills required for a head of product job, particularly in relation to product management and business. Detailed knowledge of customer acquisition, customer conversion, user churn and net promoter score are non-negotiable required skills. The ability to assess revenue and profit, budget accordingly and monitor cash flow is vital. In terms of soft skills, these roles require natural leaders with strong people and communication skills. Heads of product must often be assertive, confident and charismatic. They need exceptional analytic, strategic, time management and coordination skills. Finally, a solid understanding of both technology and business are essential for these roles.