My Journey in Payments and How You Can Break In

As a product manager in the payments industry, I’ve learned that breaking into this exciting career path is both an art and a science. Let me share some insider tips that can help aspiring product managers navigate their way into this dynamic field.

Understanding the Unique World of Payments Product Management

Product management in payments is a fascinating blend of technology, finance, and user experience. Unlike other tech sectors, payments require a deep understanding of complex financial ecosystems, regulatory landscapes, and user trust. This makes it both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

5 Proven Strategies to Launch Your Product Management Career

1. Build a Strong Foundation of Cross-Functional Skills

The payments industry doesn’t just want technical experts—it craves versatile thinkers. Start by developing a holistic skill set that spans:

• Technical knowledge (basic coding, understanding of APIs, and payment technologies)
• Financial literacy (understanding transaction flows, compliance, and financial regulations)
• Communication skills (ability to translate complex ideas across different teams)
• Problem-solving mindset (seeing challenges as opportunities for innovative solutions)

2. Leverage Your Current Role as a Stepping Stone

You don’t need to be a product manager to start thinking like one. In your current role, regardless of the department:

• Volunteer for cross-functional projects
• Ask to shadow product managers
• Propose solutions to existing product challenges
• Document your contributions and impact

These experiences build the narrative that you’re not just seeking a title, but truly understanding product development.

3. Network Strategically in the Payments Ecosystem

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards—it’s about building meaningful connections. Attend fintech meetups, payments conferences, and online webinars. Platforms like LinkedIn are goldmines for connecting with product managers in payments.

Pro tip: Don’t just ask for job opportunities. Ask for insights, advice, and perspectives. Genuine curiosity opens more doors than a desperate job hunt.

4. Invest in Targeted Learning and Certifications

While a computer science or business degree is helpful, the payments world values practical knowledge. Consider investing in:

• Product management certifications (like Pragmatic Institute or Product School)
• Online courses focusing on fintech and payments
• Technical workshops on payment technologies
• Compliance and security certifications specific to financial products

5. Create a Compelling Portfolio of Projects

In product management, your ability to solve real-world problems matters more than your resume. Consider:

• Building a side project that addresses a payment friction point
• Contributing to open-source fintech projects
• Writing detailed case studies about potential product improvements
• Creating a blog or portfolio showcasing your product thinking

The Unglamorous Truth: Persistence Matters Most

Breaking into product management isn’t about a magic formula—it’s about consistent effort and adaptability. You’ll face rejections, but each “no” is an opportunity to refine your approach.

Final Advice: Embrace the Learning Journey

The payments industry is constantly evolving. Cryptocurrencies, blockchain, embedded finance—these aren’t just buzzwords, they’re transformation engines. Stay curious, keep learning, and remain adaptable.

Resources to Get You Started

• Books: “Inspired” by Marty Cagan
• Podcasts: “This is Product Management”
• Websites: Product Coalition, Mind the Product
• Communities: Product Management Slack groups, Reddit’s r/ProductManagement

Conclusion

Your path to becoming a product manager in payments won’t be linear. It will be a journey of continuous learning, networking, and strategic positioning. Embrace the complexity, stay passionate, and remember—every payments product manager started exactly where you are now: dreaming and doing.

Good luck on your product management adventure!