Product Owner

ITProduct Owner
DEPARTMENT : Information Technology
REPORTS TO: Director, Project Management
EEO/FLSA CATEGORY: Exempt, Professional
DIRECT REPORTS: Varies and Project-dependent
PREFERRED LOCATION: Jersey City (NJ)

POSITION SUMMARY

The IT Product Owner ("PO") is a hands-on leader responsible for defining, prioritizing and delivering high-impact insurance systems, products and features that align with the business goals and user needs. The PO will work closely with cross-functional teams, including underwriting, claims and IT, to ensure the successful development and launch of systems that enhance user experience and drive business growth.

This role requires a deep understanding of the insurance industry and technology, strong analytical skills and the ability to translate business insights into actionable requirements. The PO will act as the voice of the business user and the bridge between business stakeholders and the IT team, ensuring that products are delivered on time and achieve business outcomes.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDING

• Communicate the strategy and roadmap for insurance systems. Align product goals with the company's overall business objectives and user needs.
• Collaborate with business stakeholders to gather requirements and prioritize features. Act as the primary point of contact for all product-related inquiries and decisions.
• Create, prioritize and maintain the product backlog, ensuring that it reflects the most valuable features and enhancements. Break down complex requirements into user stories and acceptance criteria for IT.
• Work with Scrum Masters, engineers and QA to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of product increments. Lead backlog grooming, participate in sprint planning, standups, demos and retrospectives to ensure continuous improvement.
• Analyze user feedback and monitor industry trends to identify opportunities for system and product innovation. Ensure that features are designed with the user in mind, delivering a seamless and intuitive experience.
• Define key performance indicators (KPIs) and track product performance post-launch. Use data-driven insights to iterate and improve.
• Ensure that all system and product enhancements comply with regulatory requirements and internal risk management policies. Work with legal and compliance teams to address any potential risks or issues.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Deep understanding of Agile frameworks (e.g., Scrum, Kanban) and experience leading Agile teams to deliver high-quality products iteratively and incrementally.
• Proven ability to manage the entire product lifecycle, from ideation and discovery to delivery, launch and post-launch optimization.
• Expertise in creating, refining and prioritizing product backlogs, ensuring alignment with business goals and user needs.
• Skilled at breaking down complex requirements into clear, actionable user stories with well-defined acceptance criteria.
• Strong ability to work with cross-functional teams to gather requirements and drive product decisions.
• Proficienct in using data and analytics to inform product decisions, measure performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Experience with tools like Microsoft DevOps or similar for backlog management, sprint planning and collaboration.
• Ability to translate user insights and feedback into actionable product features that enhance user experience and satisfaction.
• Skilled at controlling scope, managing scope creep and ensuring that product deliverables align with the defined vision and goals.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate product vision, negotiate priorities and build consensus among stakeholders.
• Familiarity with software development processes and the ability to collaborate effectively with technical teams.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word) and other tools for creating roadmaps, presentations and product documentation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and navigate complex challenges.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE

• Required: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university in computer science, management or other relevant degree.
• Required: 5+ years of experience as an IT Product Owner within technology, insurance or other relevant organization.
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), SAFe Product Owner/Product Manager (POPM) or similar are a plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Physical demands are considered to be that of a climate-controlled office environment, with minimal physical exertion.
• Position is hybrid and requires the ability and the willingness to work in an the Companies' office at least three (3) days per week.
• Position requires prolonged sitting, extensive utilization of computers and interactions with others in person and via phone.
• Position requires the ability and the willingness to travel as required to meet business needs.

BENEFITS

• The company offers competitive compensation and benefits, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), flexible spending, short-term and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, long-term care, paid parental leave, vacation and other paid time off.

An equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce