Product development manager: Role, responsibilities, job description

The product development manager (PDM) is a specialized role that bridges project management and product management, playing a critical part in turning strategic visions into practical solutions. Unlike product managers who focus on strategic and business aspects, PDMs handle the execution phase, collaborating closely with designers, developers, and engineers to transform scoped features into functional products. They are responsible for maintaining timelines and budgets, fostering creativity and innovation, and ensuring customer needs are met through effective collaboration. In agile environments, the PDM often acts as the product owner, translating strategic vision into actionable user stories and market-ready features. Success in this role requires a balance of technical expertise, project management skills, creativity, and a strong customer focus.