Manager of product

  • Guides

A product manager (or chef de produit in French) is a professional responsible for leading the design, development, and market launch of a product or service. Acting as the central link between technical, marketing, and sales teams, the product manager ensures alignment between user needs, business strategy, and technical feasibility.

In practice, the product manager conducts market analysis, defines the product roadmap, coordinates internal and external stakeholders, and monitors product performance after launch. This role requires a balance of strategic vision, analytical thinking, and operational skills.

In digital organizations, the position is often associated with the product management function, though some companies distinguish between the two roles. As the true “conductor” of the product lifecycle, the product manager oversees every stage from opportunity assessment to continuous optimization prioritizing features and managing communication with clients and stakeholders.

Main objective: to maximize user value and ensure the commercial success of the product.

The product manager in sum-up
The product manager oversees the design, development, and launch of a product, working closely with marketing, sales, and technical teams.
They analyze market trends, define the product strategy, coordinate internal stakeholders, and monitor performance after launch.

This role requires strong skills in marketing, project management, data analysis, communication, and innovation.

At emlyon business school, programs such as the Global BBA, MSc, and Specialized Master’s provide comprehensive training for careers in marketing, product management, and business strategy.

The average product manager salary in France ranges from €3,000 to €4,500 gross per month, with career growth opportunities leading to roles such as group product manager, marketing manager, or marketing director. A strategic and fast-evolving career path, the product manager plays a key role in driving business success, market performance, and innovation within organizations.