Once upon a time, being a product manager meant writing a few specs, herding engineers, and hoping for the best. Fast forward to 2025, and the role has transformed into something far more complex. The best PMs are now part strategist, part data scientist, part psychologist, and a bit of a magician.
With AI-driven products, rapidly shifting consumer expectations, and increasingly cross-functional teams, companies can no longer rely on hiring PMs based on an outdated playbook. The best product managers today aren’t just delivering features; they’re driving business outcomes, shaping customer experiences, and staying one step ahead of technological change.
So, what should you actually look for when hiring a product manager in 2025? Here’s your cheat sheet.
1 - Strategic Thinking & Business Acumen
A distinguished PM doesn't merely oversee product development; they ensure that products align seamlessly with broader business objectives. They're the grandmasters of the corporate world, always contemplating several moves ahead.
Why it matters: According to a report by McKinsey & Company, companies with strong product management functions grow revenue 1.5 times faster than their competitors. PMs who understand the commercial side of the business can prioritise initiatives that drive measurable impact.
What to look for:
- Experience in setting and executing product strategies that align with business goals.
- Ability to define and track key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Understanding of financial models, revenue forecasting, and competitive analysis.
2 - Data-Driven Decision-Making
The era of instinctual decisions has passed. Modern PMs must substantiate their choices with concrete data, ensuring every action is deliberate and informed.
Why it matters: According to Harvard Business Review, companies that use data-driven decision-making are 5% more productive and 6% more profitable than their competitors. In a world where every click, swipe, and interaction generates data, PMs who can interpret this information will have the upper hand.
What to look for:
- Comfort working with analytics tools such as Google Analytics, Mixpanel, or Amplitude.
- Ability to interpret customer data, A/B testing results, and market trends.
- Understanding of data visualisation and storytelling techniques to communicate insights effectively.
3 - AI & Emerging Tech Literacy
Artificial intelligence is no longer a mere buzzword; it's revolutionising industries. An exceptional PM doesn't need to engineer the next AI breakthrough but should grasp its potential and constraints.
Why it matters: According to Gartner, 80% of product management leaders will be directly responsible for AI initiatives by 2026. PMs who understand AI and automation will be better equipped to shape product roadmaps that incorporate these technologies effectively.
What to look for:
- Familiarity with AI-driven product development and machine learning applications.
- Ability to assess technological feasibility and work closely with engineering teams.
- Awareness of ethical considerations in AI and data usage.
4 - User-Centric Mindset
If a product doesn't resonate with users, it's destined to fail. The best PMs advocate for the user at every stage, ensuring the product not only meets but anticipates their needs.
Why it matters: According to Forrester Research, companies that prioritise user experience grow revenues twice as fast as their competitors. Products that don’t meet user expectations won’t survive in an increasingly competitive market.
What to look for:
- Strong grasp of UX principles and design thinking methodologies.
- Experience conducting user research, interviews, and usability testing.
- Ability to translate customer feedback into actionable product improvements.
5 - Agile & Cross-Functional Collaboration
The days of siloed teams are long gone. In 2025, product managers must work seamlessly with engineering, design, marketing, and sales teams to ensure alignment and efficiency.
Why it matters: According to a study by Deloitte, companies that embrace cross-functional collaboration are 60% more innovative. The ability to bridge different departments and ensure smooth communication is a hallmark of an exceptional PM.
What to look for:
- Experience working in Agile or Lean environments.
- Strong facilitation and conflict resolution skills.
- Ability to manage stakeholder expectations and build consensus.
6- Communication & Storytelling
A great product manager is also a great storyteller. Whether it’s pitching a new product vision, explaining a roadmap to executives, or rallying the team around a new initiative, clear and compelling communication is essential.
Why it matters: According to the Harvard Business Review, leaders who use storytelling techniques are 22 times more memorable than those who rely solely on facts and figures. A PM who can communicate ideas effectively will have a significant impact on team alignment and stakeholder buy-in.
What to look for:
- Ability to distill complex ideas into clear, concise messages.
- Experience presenting to executives, investors, and cross-functional teams.
- Strong written communication skills for product documentation and reports.
7 - Prioritisation & Problem-Solving
With endless possibilities and limited resources, a PM's ability to prioritise is crucial. They should adeptly navigate challenges, ensuring the team focuses on what truly matters.
Why it matters: According to the Product Management Institute, 47% of product failures are due to poor prioritisation. Without clear decision-making frameworks, teams can waste time and resources on the wrong initiatives.
What to look for:
- Experience with prioritisation frameworks like RICE, MoSCoW, or the Kano model.
- Ability to evaluate trade-offs and justify decisions based on data.
- Strong problem-solving skills, especially in high-pressure situations.
8 - Leadership & Adaptability
The best product managers don’t just manage products—they lead people. In an era of rapid change, adaptability is just as important as expertise.
Why it matters: According to a report by LinkedIn, adaptability is one of the most in-demand skills for the future of work. The best PMs can navigate uncertainty, inspire teams, and keep projects on track even when the landscape shifts.
What to look for:
- Proven ability to lead teams through change and uncertainty.
- Emotional intelligence and the ability to handle conflict.
- A growth mindset and commitment to continuous learning.
The Future of Product Management in 2025
In 2025, the quintessential product manager is a hybrid of strategist, technologist, and empath.
The role of the product manager is evolving faster than ever. As AI becomes more embedded in product development, PMs will need to balance technical literacy with strategic thinking.
The demand for professionals who can combine data-driven decision-making with human-centred design will continue to rise.
Companies hiring in 2025 should prioritise candidates who can adapt to these changes, work across disciplines, and bring both analytical and creative thinking to the table. The best product managers of the future won’t just build products—they’ll shape industries.
A great product manager is more than just a project coordinator. They are strategic thinkers, data-driven decision-makers, and exceptional communicators.
Looking to build a world-class product team? Orbis helps companies find top-tier product managers who can navigate the challenges of 2025. Get in touch to find the right talent for your team.
