Product Management Director

Job Description

At AKQA, we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create beautiful ideas, products and services. With an entrepreneurial and collaborative approach, we design adaptive digital services and applications that capture the imagination, delivering impressive returns for our clients.

Product Managers at AKQA provide cross functional leadership to ensure delivered work meets the needs of the client and their customers. This involves not only consuming the information and direction we receive, but looking beyond and demonstrating thought leadership and critical analysis to guide the team towards creating the best possible solution.

NOTE: This is a temporary, full-time freelance role for 3-6 months with potential to extend. Candidates may work remote (US only) as long as they are available during normal business hours, Eastern Time Zone, out of consideration for our team and client. Relocation and visa sponsorship are not available. Freelancers will be engaged on a temporary basis via W-2; 1099/contractor/vendor status is not an option.

AKQA offers teams the opportunity to produce innovative work that moves companies, and their communities forward. All disciplines collaborate to find the best solution while delivering each aspect to the highest standard. From products and services to imaginative storytelling, our shared vision is to create experiences that drive progress and results. We are fortunate to partner with forward-thinking clients, including Verizon, IBM, Mayo Clinic, HSS, Volvo, and Campari.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

• Collaborate with UX and Strategy leads to discern customer problems and pain points for a workflow, existing product, new product or service, or ecosystem of products.
• Lead process of identifying and clarifying product requirements for clients using interviews, workshops, and surveys across stakeholders.
• Liaison between the business, creative and technology teams to ensure a shared understanding of product vision and key objectives.
• Provide recommendations on product direction based on expertise and analysis.
• Develop a tactical product roadmap by conducting prioritization exercises.
• Create and manage product backlog.
• Catalog background knowledge, business rules and develop subject matter expertise to share with the internal team, resolve questions the team may have that impacts the direction of the work.
• Work side-by-side with our creative team to refine/clarify requirements as well as provide guidance on proposed solutions based on subject matter expertise and potential technical challenges.
• Interface with internal and external development teams to ensure product vision is carried through to the final product.
• Assist in writing functional specifications defining the proposed solutions.
• Ensure the accuracy of all deliverables against approved scope and requirements.
• Participate in the communication of solutions to clients and third-party partners.
• Support team member management, oversight, and contribute to ATL Product Management department operations

QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

• 8+ years of experience preferably within a consulting or agency environment, implementing innovative, interactive and consumer-focused solutions.
• Effective communication skills at all levels (presentation, written, verbal). Leveraging negotiation and influence to facilitate product creation.
• Ability to build strong, collaborative relationships with peers and external client staff with a customer service oriented mindset.
• Strong organization skills; responsive to colleagues for overall clarity and understanding.
• Passion for creating innovative solutions that help companies connect and engage with customers.
• An objective focused and positive approach and be comfortable working independently. Is self-motivated and self-driven.

OTHER DETAILS

• Remote (United States only) position
• Available during normal business hours, US Eastern Time Zone
• Full-time work schedule (40hrs/wk)
• Anticipated weekly pay range between $6,000 - $6,500

We believe great work happens when we’re together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That’s why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach including required in-office days. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

AKQA is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.