Product Owner

Department: Product/R&D FLSA Status: Exempt Reports To: Head of Regulated Brands Company Overview Smart State is a rapidly growing technology company, bringing together expertise in software engineering, analytics, and product management to deliver reliable and innovative digital solutions. Smart State is a place where talents from different niches can make real changes across the industry. We create an environment to let smart ideas act boldly. Please note: This is a full‑time, office‑based position that requires your full presence at our Fort Lee, NJ office. Remote or hybrid work arrangements are not available for this role. Position Overview The Product Owner is the strategic lead for our American product portfolio at the delivery level. You will act as the primary bridge between international HQ teams and the local US market, ensuring that backlogs, requirements, and releases reflect both user needs and complex state‑by‑state regulatory demands. Operating at the intersection of business priorities and technical execution, you will own and refine product backlogs for US brands and platforms, working closely with stakeholders to translate market needs into clear, actionable user stories and features. The objective of this role is to drive growth and retention through a deep understanding of user behavior, compliance constraints, and the unique requirements of the US gaming and sports betting landscape. Responsibilities Backlog & Roadmap Execution: Own and manage the product backlog for US‑specific brands, games, and platforms, ensuring alignment with the broader product strategy and roadmap. Requirements & User Stories: Translate US market needs into detailed user stories, acceptance criteria, and clear specifications, managing the full lifecycle from ideation to release. Compliance Partnership: Work closely with Legal & Compliance teams to ensure all backlog items and releases meet US federal and state gaming regulations (e.g., DGE, tribal). Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Coordinate delivery across Engineering, Design, Marketing, and Operations, ensuring that releases are high‑quality, scalable, and delivered on time. Stakeholder Management: Gather input from HQ Product, local Commercial, and Operations teams, prioritizing competing requirements based on impact and effort. Data‑Driven Optimization: Use analytics (funnels, LTV, retention via GA4, Amplitude, or Power BI) to refine backlog priorities and optimize player experience and performance. Market Feedback Loop: Incorporate competitive analysis, player feedback, and operational insights into backlog grooming and future sprint planning. Requirements 5–7+ years of hands‑on experience in a Product Owner or closely related product role, preferably with consumer‑facing mobile or digital applications. Industry Expertise: Proven experience in regulated industries such as iGaming, sports betting, or fintech. US Market Knowledge: Strong familiarity with US regulatory environments and state‑by‑state product implications. Analytical Mindset: Solid experience using data tools (Google Analytics, BigQuery, Power BI, or similar) to inform backlog prioritization and decision‑making. Execution Skills: Strong background in Agile/Scrum, backlog ownership, and stakeholder management. Preferred Experience Experience launching digital products in multiple regulated US states. Prior experience working closely with or supporting Product Managers and cross‑functional delivery teams. Deep knowledge of monetization strategies and engagement‑boosting features like CRM and gamification. What We Offer Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k) plan, and more. Generous PTO policy. A dynamic and collaborative international work environment. Breakfasts and lunches in the office (partially paid by the company). Birthdays, milestones and employee anniversaries celebrations. Opportunities for professional development and growth. Smart State Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that different perspectives make us stronger and provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants regardless of race, color identity, religion, or any other protected status. If you have the drive and the skills, we want to hear from you. Salary range $140,000 - $160,000 USD #J-18808-Ljbffr