Director, IT Product Management

As the Director of IT Product Management at Fidelity, you will oversee the technology that supports the Arbitrage & Hedging Solutions in the discretionary liquid alternatives market. This includes collaborating with investment teams, defining necessary tools for portfolio management, and ensuring clear communication about project priorities and deliverables. You will lead a team focused on iterative work, innovation, and embracing best practices in product management.

To qualify for the Director of IT Product Management role at Fidelity, you typically need a Bachelor's degree in computer science, economics, or a related field. Moreover, you should have at least 3 years of experience working with front office investment teams, alongside 8 or more years in a technology role. A strong knowledge of SQL, understanding of complex financial instruments, and experience in managing product roadmaps are essential.

Fidelity promotes a culture of continuous learning by encouraging the Director of IT Product Management to develop their expertise actively. You will have opportunities for mentoring, coaching, and collaboration with colleagues across various disciplines. By modeling curiosity and implementing innovative practices, you'll contribute significantly to our team’s growth and the company’s overall success.

The hybrid working model at Fidelity blends onsite and offsite experiences, requiring most associates, including the Director of IT Product Management, to spend time in the office every other week. This model balances the advantages of in-person collaboration with the flexibility that remote work provides, fostering a dynamic and productive work environment.

Successful candidates for the Director of IT Product Management role at Fidelity should excel in leadership, communication, and execution. Strong technical skills in database management and product roadmaps are a must. Additionally, the ability to influence and motivate a team without formal authority, combined with a commitment to building relationships and achieving business outcomes, is vital for success.

When answering this question, highlight specific projects where you successfully implemented technology solutions. Discuss your role in collaborating with investment teams, managing product backlogs, and how you approached challenges in the fast-paced financial sector.

Outline your method for evaluating project importance, which may include impact on revenue, strategic alignment, and resource availability. Sharing your past experiences with prioritization frameworks can demonstrate your expertise in the role.

Mention specific project management and communication tools you've used, like JIRA for tracking progress or Slack for team communication. Emphasize the importance of clear documentation and regular check-ins to keep teams aligned.

Discuss how you foster a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement within your team. Share examples of how you encourage team members to propose new ideas and prioritize time for innovation while still meeting critical project timelines.

Share your approach to conflict resolution, which could include active listening and facilitating open discussions to find common ground. Providing a concrete example of a conflict you've resolved can illustrate your capability in this area.

Clearly communicate your SQL proficiency by describing specific scenarios where you’ve written complex queries to derive insights from data. Linking this experience to decision-making regarding product features or team priorities will showcase your technical prowess.

Discuss key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to financial products, such as client satisfaction, revenue generation, or adoption rates. Explaining how you use data to refine products can demonstrate your analytical skills.

Describe how you support the professional growth of your team, whether through regular feedback sessions, setting career goals, or providing learning opportunities. Illustrating a successful mentorship story can enhance your response.

Share your insights on industry trends and possible obstacles, like regulatory changes or evolving technology landscapes. Discuss how your risk management strategies could help address these challenges effectively.

Talk about your strategies for remaining informed, such as attending conferences, pursuing certifications, or engaging in professional communities. Highlighting specific areas you’re currently exploring can show your willingness to grow.