Product Manager vs. Delivery Manager: What Are the Differences?

Product managers and delivery managers are responsible for ensuring that products and services are delivered to customers on time and as promised. Though both roles are important in keeping customers satisfied, there are several key differences between the two positions. In this article, we discuss the similarities and differences between product managers and delivery managers, and we provide tips for those interested in pursuing a career in either field.

What is a Product Manager?

A Product Manager is responsible for the development and management of a company’s products. They work with cross-functional teams to ensure that products are designed, developed and launched according to market needs and company objectives. Product Managers conduct market research, develop product plans and roadmaps, and oversee the product life cycle. They also work with sales and marketing teams to ensure that products are positioned and priced appropriately. Product Managers typically have a background in business, marketing or engineering.

What is a Delivery Manager?

Delivery Managers are responsible for the successful delivery of products or services to customers. They work with project managers, product managers, and other team members to ensure that products are delivered on time, within budget, and at the required level of quality. Delivery Managers create and track project schedules, identify risks and issues, and develop mitigation plans. They also create and maintain project documentation, including project plans, status reports, and change logs. In addition, Delivery Managers may be responsible for customer communication, training, and support.

Product Manager vs. Delivery Manager

Here are the main differences between a product manager and a delivery manager.

Job Duties

Although the job duties of both product managers and delivery managers may overlap, there are differences in their specific responsibilities. Product managers are primarily focused on determining what a company’s customers want and then ensuring that the products the company offers meet those customer needs. This involves researching customer demographics, studying how customers use existing products and brainstorming new product ideas based on market trends. Delivery managers oversee the process of getting a product from production to the hands of customers. Their job duties include making sure the proper teams are involved in each step of the process, communicating with customers about estimated shipping dates and troubleshooting issues that arise during shipping.

Job Requirements

Product managers typically need a bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing or another related field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many product managers pursue certifications through the Project Management Institute (PMI) or the International Association of Project and Program Managers (IAPPM). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use project management software and other tools they might need on the job.

Delivery managers typically need a bachelor’s degree in business administration, logistics or another related field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many delivery managers pursue certifications through the American Society for Quality (ASQ) or the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use supply chain management software and other tools they might need on the job.

Work Environment

Delivery managers typically work in an office setting, but they may travel to meet with clients and vendors. They also spend time on the road traveling with their teams to ensure that projects are completed successfully.

Product managers usually work in an office environment, but they may travel to attend meetings or visit customers. They may also need to be available via email or phone for communication purposes.

Skills

Both product managers and delivery managers need to have excellent communication skills. Product managers need to be able to communicate the vision for a product and its features to the team developing it, as well as stakeholders who may be funding or using the product. Delivery managers need to be able to effectively communicate deadlines, updates on progress and any changes in scope to their team, as well as customers or clients who are expecting the product.

Both roles also require strong organizational skills. Product managers need to be able to keep track of various tasks and timelines associated with the development of a product, as well as coordinate with different teams who may be working on different aspects of the project. Delivery managers need to be able to organize the resources and personnel available to them to ensure that a product is delivered on time and within budget.

Product managers benefit from having a background in research, as they often need to understand the needs of the customer base a product is being developed for. They also need to have an understanding of marketing, as they are responsible for promoting a product once it is released. Delivery managers do not typically need to have a background in research, but they must be familiar with project management concepts and tools, as they are responsible for ensuring a product is delivered according to schedule.

Salary

Product managers can earn an average salary of $98,439 per year, while delivery managers can earn an average salary of $66,214 per year. Both of these average salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.