Talk us through an average day in your role
My day usually kicks off with a bunch of meetings or emails with teams like engineering, sales, marketing, and customer support. We sync up on our product strategy, chat about customer feedback, and get our ducks in a row for any upcoming product launches or updates. I spend a good chunk of time discussing the latest updates on product evaluations, tracking progress, or jotting down action items to better support our customers.
I also check in with colleagues about how our current products are doing. We brainstorm ways to tackle any issues and sketch out plans for future product phases. Amidst all this, I try to carve out some time to catch up on industry news and browse LinkedIn to stay on top of the latest updates in our field. Plus, I make sure to read about the newest tech and methods in video QC and monitoring and in our ecosystem. This could mean hopping onto webinars, diving into research papers, or looking at the latest tools that might boost our product lineup.
How did you get started in the media industry?
I didn’t initially set out to work in the media industry; it sort of found me. When I graduated, I got offers from three different companies. One was a database company, another specialised in developing accounting software, and the third was a pioneer in digital video technology. The opportunity to work with video technologies intrigued me the most, as it seemed more dynamic and interesting. So, I decided to jump in, and that’s how I started my journey in the media industry.
What training did you have before entering the industry?
Prior to entering the media industry, I didn’t have any formal training specific to this field. However, my initial 10 years in software development and product management were spent at companies specialising in audio-video systems, and that’s where I learned about the intricacies and challenges of video compression and video delivery over different types of networks. This experience laid a strong foundation and gave me a good understanding of the technical and product-related aspects necessary for a successful career in the media industry.
Why do you enjoy working in the industry?
I enjoy working in the media industry for a bunch of reasons. It’s not just about the core technology; it’s also about figuring out how to best apply these technologies to create real-world solutions for our customers. The industry’s fast pace means there’s always something new to learn, which keeps things exciting and constantly offers new challenges.
I also love how my role lets me interact directly with customers. It’s quite rewarding to dive into their challenges and develop solutions that help them tackle their problems and improve their operations. There’s nothing better than hearing how much our products help them; it’s a huge motivator.
Another great aspect of my job is its multifaceted nature. I get to work with people from R&D, marketing, sales, and customer support. This collaboration across different groups isn’t just interesting; it’s crucial for our success. It ensures that instead of working in silos, we are coming together to make the best decisions for our company and our customers.
Staying up to date with the latest tech and trends is also key. It helps me craft effective road maps and come up with practical solutions. This part of my job keeps me on my toes and energised about the work I do. I also get to travel around the world, meet customers, and connect with people from various cultural backgrounds. How great is that!
What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a role similar to yours?
To succeed as a VP of product management in the media industry, you must first deeply understand your products, the problems they solve, and who your customers are. Discipline in time management is crucial; keep a close watch on everything that affects your products. Always prioritise your customers, considering their needs and how these shape your product strategies. Networking is also vital. Build connections and attend industry events to gain insights from leaders and peers. Staying current with the ever-evolving industry landscape, including the latest technologies and trends, is essential. Additionally, refine your skills in strategic planning, project management, and market analysis to proactively meet and anticipate market demands.
