How to Become an AI Product Manager and Change Businesses

Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, transforming our lives, and creating entirely new career opportunities. Among these, the role of an AI product manager stands out as one of the most exciting and in-demand positions. But how to become an AI product manager? What skills do you need? And what steps should you take to break into this field? Let’s dive in.

What is an AI Product Manager?

Before we explore how to become an AI product manager, let’s clarify what the role entails. An AI product manager sits at the intersection of technology, business, and user experience. They oversee the development of AI-driven products, ensuring they solve real problems, deliver value, and align with business goals.

Unlike traditional product managers, AI product managers need a deeper understanding of machine learning, data science, and the ethical implications of AI. They bridge the gap between technical teams (like data scientists and engineers) and non-technical stakeholders (like marketers and executives). This role isn’t just about building cool tech—it’s about creating products that make a difference. Whether it’s designing a healthcare app that predicts diseases or a retail platform that personalizes shopping experiences, AI product managers are at the forefront of innovation. So, if innovation excites you, let’s explore how to become an AI product manager and unlock a career that’s as impactful as rewarding.

Why Become an AI Product Manager?

The demand for AI product managers is skyrocketing. NASSCOM’s 2024 AI adoption index predicts that India’s AI market is expected to grow at a 25–35% compound annual growth rate by 2027 (1). Companies across industries—healthcare, finance, retail, and more—are investing heavily in AI. Consequently, they need skilled professionals who can guide AI product development from ideation to launch.

Additionally, this role offers intellectual challenge, creative freedom, and the chance to work on cutting-edge technology. If you’re passionate about innovation and problem-solving, learning how to become an AI product manager could be your ticket to a fulfilling career. The following pointers can serve as a roadmap for professionals interested in pursuing this field.

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1. Build a Strong Foundation in Product Management

First, to understand how to become an AI product manager, you need to grasp the basics of product management. Even if you’re transitioning from a technical role, mastering these core PM skills is essential:

A. Learn the product lifecycle. Understand how products are conceived, developed, launched, and iterated.

B. Develop business acumen. Learn how to align product goals with business objectives.

2. Gain Technical Knowledge in AI and Machine Learning

Next, you need to build a solid understanding of AI and machine learning. You don’t have to become a data scientist, but should know enough to collaborate effectively with technical teams. Just understand the basics of AI. Learn about algorithms, neural networks, and natural language processing. Furthermore, familiarize yourself with data science concepts. Know how data is collected, cleaned, and used to train models. Explore AI tools and frameworks. Get hands-on experience with tools such as TensorFlow, PyTorch, or Scikit-learn. Online tutorials can help you get started. Above all, hone communication skills. You will need to articulate ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

3: Develop Domain Expertise

AI is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different industries have unique challenges and use cases for AI. You will need domain expertise in a specific field to stand out as an AI product manager.

Let’s look at how this works with some examples:

• AI might be used for diagnostic tools or personalized medicine in healthcare
• In finance, it could power fraud detection or algorithmic trading
• In retail, AI drives recommendation engines and inventory management

So, how do you choose an industry that excites you and dive deep? Read case studies, follow industry news, and network with professionals. This knowledge will help you identify opportunities and create AI products that resonate with users. 

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4. Master the Art of Problem-Solving

At its core, product management is about solving problems. When it comes to understanding how to become an AI product manager, therefore, you should hone your problem-solving skills. You must learn to identify pain points, define clear problem statements, and design solutions that effectively leverage AI.

So, ask the right questions. What problem are we trying to solve? How can AI add value? Focus on user needs. Always keep the end user in mind. AI should enhance their experience, not complicate it. Additionally, think critically about feasibility. Not every problem requires an AI solution. Sometimes, simpler approaches work better.

Remember, developing a problem-solving mindset takes practice. Work on case studies, participate in hackathons, or collaborate on side projects to sharpen this skill.

5: Understand the Ethical Implications of AI

AI is powerful, but it is not without risks. Bias, privacy concerns, and misuse are real challenges that AI product managers must address. Firstly, learn about AI ethics. Understand the principles of fairness, accountability, and transparency. Next, stay updated on regulations. Familiarize yourself with laws like GDPR and CCPA. Moreover, it advocates for responsible AI. Ensure your products are designed and deployed ethically. By prioritizing ethics, you build better products and earn the trust of users and stakeholders.

6. Gain Hands-on Experience

Theory is important, but nothing beats hands-on experience. To truly understand how to become an AI product manager, you need to get practical experience.

1. Work on AI projects. Collaborate with data scientists and engineers to build AI-driven solutions.
2. Intern or volunteer. If you’re new to the field, consider internships or volunteer opportunities to gain experience.
3. Build a portfolio. Showcase your projects, case studies, and achievements to demonstrate your skills.

Even if you’re not working in a formal AI role, you can start small. For example, use AI tools to automate tasks or analyze data in your current job.

7. Network and Learn From Others

While gaining skills and knowledge is the first step in knowing how to become an AI product manager, knowing how to wield your skills successfully is also necessary. An invaluable way to do so is engaging with the AI and product management community. You gain insights, uncover opportunities, and build a support system to propel your career forward. Networking is more than just exchanging business cards or LinkedIn connections—it’s about fostering meaningful relationships that grow over time. Whether sharing your expertise, learning from others, or collaborating on projects, every interaction adds value to your professional journey.

So, start connecting today. Join those online communities, attend events, and seek out mentors who can guide you. Remember, the relationships you build now could open doors to opportunities you haven’t even imagined yet. Take your first step toward becoming a successful AI product manager, and don’t forget to give back to the community as you grow. The future of AI is collaborative—be a part of it.

8. Stay Curious and Keep Learning

To succeed as an AI product manager, you need to stay curious and keep learning. Always follow industry trends. Subscribe to newsletters, blogs, and podcasts about AI and product management: experiment with new tools. Additionally, stay updated on the latest AI technologies and frameworks. Pursue advanced education. Moreover, consider certifications, bootcamps, or even a master’s degree in AI or data science.

How IIM’s Executive Programme in Data-Driven Product Management Can Help

The Executive Programme in Data Driven Product Management by IIM Lucknow is an immersive course tailored to equip professionals with the essential skills and knowledge to excel as AI product managers. Here’s how this programme can help facilitate your journey to becoming an AI product manager:

What This Programme Offers

1. Comprehensive Curriculum

The programme encompasses modules that offer learners insights into customer behavior and decoding customer research.  They also focus on the importance of design thinking and Agile and Lean product development, which is crucial for AI product management. Furthermore, the course will also familiarize you with quantitative and qualitative research methods, equipping you with tools to be in step with customers’ wants and needs. 

2. Hands-on Experience

Participants engage in real-world case studies and a comprehensive capstone project, providing practical experience applying data analytics and product management strategies. Moreover, the capstone project at the end of the programme will enable you to put all your learnings into practice and make you job-ready.

3. Expert Instruction

The programme features live sessions led by esteemed IIM Lucknow faculty and industry experts, ensuring participants gain insights from seasoned professionals.

Why This Programme Stands Out

1. Integration of Data Analytics and Design Thinking

This is India’s only executive education programme that seamlessly integrates product, marketing, and development strategies across a product’s lifecycle with data analytics and design thinking. 

2. Networking Opportunities

The programme offers a two-day campus immersion, facilitating networking with peers and industry leaders. 

3. Flexible Learning Format

Designed as an eight-month live online programme, working professionals can balance their studies with existing commitments.

By focusing on data-driven decision-making, customer-centric approaches, and Agile development methodologies, this programme thus equips aspiring AI product managers with the competencies to navigate the complexities of AI product development and management.​

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To adequately answer the question of how to become an AI product manager, the first thing to understand is that AI isn’t just about algorithms. It is about visionaries who can harness its power to solve real-world problems. As businesses race to integrate AI, they need leaders who understand both technology and strategy. Are you ready to be that leader? The Executive Programme in Data Driven Product Management by IIM Lucknow gives you this competitive edge to shape AI-driven products and build your career as an AI product manager. So, explore the IIM Lucknow Programme on Emeritus today to secure your tomorrow.

Write to us at content@emeritus.org

Sources:

1. AI Adoption Index 2.0: Tracking India’s Sectoral Progress in AI Adoption