What is a technical product manager and what do they do?

A technical product manager (TPM) is a specialized role within product management that requires a blend of technical acumen and product management skills, though not necessarily programming expertise. Unlike traditional product managers who focus on market research, sales, and marketing, TPMs work closely with engineering and UX design teams to approve and collaborate on technical designs and architecture, ensuring seamless integration of technical aspects within the product development cycle. They are responsible for defining product goals, creating roadmaps, managing product backlogs, and understanding agile methodologies, often spending significant time in meetings and interactions with various stakeholders. The role emphasizes internal collaboration, particularly with engineering and system analysts, and is crucial for making informed decisions regarding technical trade-offs and user experience design. To succeed in this role, candidates should possess a strong background in engineering or computer science, experience with software development methodologies, and soft skills like problem-solving and team building. In preparing for a technical product manager interview, individuals should be ready to discuss their experience with product development, strategic decision-making, and soft skills, as well as tackle case study assignments that reflect the practical challenges of the role.