Pursuing a Career as a Brand or Product Manager?

Succeeding as a brand or product manager requires the ability to manage all the multiple tasks involved in commercializing a product or service. This could involve managing the product’s marketing initiatives, its production schedule, the vendors who provide essential materials and parts, as well as the sales or distribution channels the company pursues. These positions require individuals with solid business acumen who are able to perform multiple business functions. Depending upon the position and the company, a brand or product manager could also fill the role of sales professional. Some businesses consider their brand and product managers as small business units. Brand and product managers are responsible for not only the success or failure of commercialization, but they also have P&L (Profit & Loss) responsibilities as well. Given all the requirements needed to succeed in this position, what must someone do to get their foot in the door? More importantly, what are the realistic career and salary expectations for such a position?

Most universities offer a myriad of bachelors, certifications and masters degrees in brand and product management. Essential to success is the ability to have a solid understanding of how best to create and manage a product’s brand. Managing a product’s brand involves marketing it to customers and creating an immediate connection. A product’s brand recognition is an essential aspect of its success. A solid brand means customers will immediately identify with the product’s symbol, logo or acronym and will ultimately become loyal only to that brand.

Many individuals use their brand or product management positions to solidify their business experience and advance into higher marketing, sales and management positions. Typical entry level salaries for brand or product managers are in the $50,000.00 range with some going as high as $75,000.00 to start if the candidate has an MBA (Masters of Business Administration). Over time, the salary increases as does the opportunities. In some companies, brand or product managers head an entire department and have salaries of $500,000.00 or more annually. It’s really dependant upon the company, the position and the scope of responsibility.

Becoming a brand or product manager is an Excellent way to get one’s career off the ground running. Because the responsibilities are so varied, many businesses view these positions as pivotal to their success. This affords applicants the opportunities to pursue multiple business careers.