Panel Discussion Wrap-up: Product Manager to Product Leader - Mapping the Journey!

Prof. Shah: How do you know you’re ready for a C-level role? If you know you’re ready, how do you pitch for this role?

Gaurav: In my case, I was working closely with other functions so I had a fair idea of what problems they faced and the best ways to tackle those problems. Somewhere down the line, the whole system saw me as a suitable candidate for the position. So, I didn’t have to talk to anybody and push myself there. The system would see it if you’re able to get into others’ shoes and understand the problems, you’ll get noticed by the system. 
Rajiv: I agree with Gaurav on this. In some cases, you end up starting your own company and become a CPO/CTO/CEO. At other times, you’ve built a network of people you’ve worked with and they end up recommending you by looking at your abilities and the value you can bring to an organization. You can also go directly and have those tough conversations with the management. 

Sharad: I’d like to add something here. In this case, you’re the product. Something I’ve noticed and done is contributing even when you don’t have the title ‘officially.’ One can already start contributing as a leader before being offered the role. Even while we’re hiring Product Managers, we’re always on the lookout for proactive individuals who can add more value to the company than what is expected out of them. Eventually, you will get noticed by the organization. 

Prof. Shah: Do you think prior experience in product management is needed to become a CPO? Or being a functional leader in Engineering or Project Management or Sales & Marketing is enough to become a CPO?

Anurag: I’ve been in Product Management for the last 10 years or so and my humble belief is that if you want to lead a team that builds customer-centric products, then you have to dirty your hands. Prioritizing and taking tough decisions come naturally to a CPO only when he/she has prior experience.