Is having an MBA a requirement for Product Manager jobs now? Why?

Product & Design
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#1

MBA
It is not required, but it will be highly beneficial in gaining business knowledge. I mentioned helpful because it is optional knowledge that may or may not be necessary if you’re aspiring to become a product manager/owner for the same organization where you are currently employed. As you spend more time in the same organization, you will gain exceptional knowledge that no MBA can teach you.

HOW SO?

  1. For example, you will understand your coworkers and the company culture, making you the best candidate to manage the team and shape the product. This is something that no MBA can teach you.
  2. You will better understand the industry from an insider’s perspective. If you work as a coffee maker at Starbucks, you can easily guess the coffee-making process, shop expenses, customer handling, and selling strategy at Dunkin’ Donuts. This is something that no MBA can teach you.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

  1. The bigger picture, however, is what an MBA will teach you.
  2. Working in a coffee shop may provide you with detailed information about your establishment.
  3. However, with an MBA, you can assess how the entire chain works, what upper management thinks, and their business perspective.
  4. So you’re learning not only about the product but also about the supply chain, logistics, human resources, and market competition.