November 21, 2024
Oliver Dendy - Head of Practice, Product
The iGaming industry offers a dynamic and varied environment for Product Managers looking to make a significant impact. As someone deeply entrenched in the product management specialism within iGaming, I have had the unique opportunity to guide many talented individuals through various stages of their careers. From their first entry into the industry to securing high-level positions, the journey is as rewarding for me as it is for them.
In this article, I explore the opportunities for professional growth in the world of iGaming, and advice for securing your next product management role.
Demand in iGaming for Product Managers
In iGaming, your worth as an operator can be directly linked to the quality and appeal of your products. This direct correlation places Product Managers in a vital position within any iGaming company. Top talent in this role is constantly sought after, with competitive salaries and often generous bonuses reflecting the high value placed on skilled managers. Those with experience in B2B platform provision are in particularly high demand, especially if that experience is coupled with a background in iGaming. However, relevant experience from related fields such as payments and technology platforms also positions candidates strongly in the job market.
Many iGaming operators are particularly keen on hiring Product Managers who specialise in specific areas—whether that's enhancing user retention systems, improving back-office tools, or leading cutting-edge game development projects. While direct experience in iGaming boosts a candidate’s profile, demonstrated expertise in these specialised areas within related sectors can be just as persuasive.
Key Skills for iGaming Product Managers
The role of a Product Manager in iGaming is multifaceted, requiring a blend of technical skills and soft skills. While some of these competencies may not be expected for junior positions, it’s useful to understand what employers look for as you progress up the career ladder. Gaining awareness of these expectations early on can help you strategically develop the skills needed to advance in your career. Here’s what employers typically look for:
● Strategic Vision: Understanding the iGaming landscape, including current trends and emerging technologies, is crucial. A successful Product Manager will use this knowledge to develop a product roadmap that syncs seamlessly with the company’s strategic goals.
● Data-Driven Decision Making: The ability to sift through and analyse player data and market metrics is a must. This skill ensures that all product decisions are informed by solid data, enhancing the chances of market success.
● Problem Solving: Every day presents new challenges in iGaming. A strong problem-solving ability allows Product Managers to navigate these effectively, ensuring that both player needs and business objectives are met.
● Strong Leadership: Leading by example is key. Product Managers should inspire their teams, nurture a collaborative spirit, and drive them to achieve excellence.
● Commercial Acumen: An acute understanding of the business side of operations is necessary. This means knowing what levers to pull to drive revenue, optimise player acquisition and retention.
● Technical Proficiency: Product Managers do not need to be developers, but they do need a robust understanding of technical aspects to collaborate effectively with engineering teams.
● Creativity and Innovation: The iGaming industry thrives on innovation. A successful Product Manager should constantly seek to innovate, pushing the boundaries of what's possible within the gaming experience.
Marketing Your Product Management Skills
When preparing your professional profile, CV, or job applications, as well as detailing your work experience and professional qualifications it’s important to highlight your soft skills like those above. Employers are looking for strategic talent that can help shape the direction of their companies and drive forward business objectives.
Where possible, provide concrete examples of your strategic contributions, such as successful products you’ve helped take to market or innovative solutions you’ve implemented. Discuss specific scenarios where your approach led to measurable improvements in product offerings, delivery or user engagement. Showcase how your contributions have led to bottom-line results, whether that’s being part of a successful product team or spearheading key projects. Ultimately, your goal is to paint a picture of a well-rounded, strategic thinker who is not only capable of executing tasks but also of contributing to the broader success and growth of the company.
If you're considering a career move within iGaming or are looking to step up in your current role, I can provide personalised advice and support. Contact me to discuss how we can elevate your product management career to the next level! oliver.dendy@pentasia.com