There is a lot of hype surrounding AI. So where are the real opportunities for product managers?

The tech sector is heavily focused on AI, but there are a lot of opportunities outside of tech. For example, retail companies are looking to generative AI to create personalized product recommendations for customers. And in education, generative AI helps create personalized learning experiences by tailoring content and difficulty based on individual student progress.

There are also plenty of low-hanging fruit opportunities to ship AI features within companies. For example, design teams can use AI to brainstorm ideas and iterate over design, customer support teams can use it to analyze customer feedback, predict market trends, and automate customer support.

These applications previously required a lot of effort from a big team of developers and ML engineers. Now, with the help of generative AI tools, a lean team can iterate and create them at a fraction of the cost and time it would normally take.

Where to look for AI product management jobs:

  • Job boards: Start with specialized AI job boards like AI Jobs (here is an example of AI product management job post). General product management job boards like ProductHired and ZipRecruiter will also list AI PM roles. (For example, several insurance companies in the U.S. are currently looking for AI PMs to launch customer service chatbots).
  • Refine your search terms: Use specific keywords like “AI Product Manager,” “Machine Learning Product Manager,” “Generative AI Product Manager,” and “AI/ML Product Manager”.
  • Consider different levels: Look for Associate Product Manager (APM) programs at larger tech companies if you’re just starting out. Don’t be afraid to explore roles at startups for potentially broader responsibilities.  
  • Network, network, network: Engage with the product management and AI communities online (like this subreddit) and at industry events. Sometimes, opportunities aren’t even publicly posted.
  • Be aware of the hype: Some “AI PM” roles might be more about just adding AI for the sake of it. Focus on roles that clearly address customer or business needs with AI.  

Before you embark on your first AI PM role, note that you have to understand that creating AI-powered products needs a fundamentally different mindset than classic applications. The dynamics (timing, iteration, unit economy, etc.) are very different from traditional products. Make sure to educate yourself on the basics of AI product management to avoid making critical mistakes. 

AI product management is challenging but also rewarding and at the forefront of innovation. Do your research, build your skills, and get ready to shape the future.

To enhance your skills in working on AI/ML products, you can benefit from: