A product series Ibukunoluwa (Theresa) Ajibare

Today I will be speaking with a product manager with over three years of experience in the product space.

She considers herself to be a result-driven professional with a background in business analysis, product/program management, and agile methodology.

While she is a people person, Ibukun brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and hands-on experience to every project she undertakes. With experience across diverse industries—including construction and startups— She brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, data-driven decision-making, and product strategy to every project.

Let's meet her, shall we?

NB: In this newsletter, you will encounter acronyms like PM, PMing, and other terminologies that will be used interchangeably in this article.

Stay hungry, stay curious, and stay consistent. Find a mentor who inspires you and mirrors your aspirations. - Ibukunoluwa Ajibare Asuni, CSM?

• Can we meet you??

?Hello! I’m Ibukunoluwa Theresa Ajibare Asuni, a Nigerian from Ekiti State and I am currently residing in Sweden.

• How long have you been a? PM and where do you work at the moment as a PM??

I’ve been a Product Manager for over three years now. During this time, I’ve had the privilege of working on diverse projects, collaborating with various teams, and enhancing my skills. Currently, I’m freelancing as a PM while simultaneously upskilling in areas like intelligent automation and AI. This mix of hands-on work and self-improvement keeps me engaged and always learning.

• ?On a scale of 1-5, how much do you love your job?? And why do you love it so much?

I’d rate my love for product management at a solid 4/5. It’s a role that comes with its fair share of challenges, but that’s precisely what makes it exciting. What I truly enjoy about being a Product Manager is the opportunity to take an idea from concept to reality. Watching a product evolve from 0 to 100, and solving real customer pain points along the way is incredibly fulfilling. The beauty lies in nurturing that idea, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and blending both hard and soft skills to create something valuable. Every challenge faced is a stepping stone toward greater success, which is why I find this role so rewarding.

• So people say there’s money in Tech is it true? Does that translate to Product management??

The phrase “there’s money in Tech” is somewhat subjective. While it can be true for some, it’s not an immediate payoff. Building a tech career requires dedication, continuous learning, and a strategic approach. The money doesn’t come overnight, it’s about honing your craft and staying relevant in a constantly evolving landscape. Product Management is an umbrella term that encompasses several specializations. Whether you're a Technical PM, AI PM, or Product Marketing Manager, the key is to be adaptable and multifaceted. As the field grows, it becomes more competitive, so the more versatile and skilled you are, the more likely you’ll earn the income and benefits you’re aiming for.

• ?What is one thing you don’t like about being a PM?

Honestly, there’s nothing I can pinpoint that I dislike about being a PM. Every role has its challenges, but overcoming these hurdles leads to growth and success. Being a PM has taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of strategic thinking, skills that are invaluable in both personal and professional life.

• ?Will you pick being a PM to other professions??

This is a tricky one! While I deeply enjoy being a PM, I’m always open to exploring other paths that complement the role. I believe in the power of transferable skills i.e., skills that a PM can bring into different fields. While my passion for product management is strong, I’m not closed off to new opportunities that allow me to use my expertise in problem-solving, leadership, and decision-making in different ways.

• As a PM? how do you manage time?

Prioritization is key to managing time effectively as a PM. I’ve learned to evaluate tasks based on their importance and urgency. Sometimes, it’s about taking a step back, understanding what truly matters, and focusing on delivering value. Time management isn’t just about being busy; it’s about being productive and intentional with where you invest your time and energy.

• ?What can someone who wants to pivot into PMing do with no experience?

First off, it’s entirely possible to pivot into product management even without direct experience. I didn’t start with a technical background, so I know how daunting it can feel. The key is to identify your strengths— skills like problem-solving, communication, leadership, and decision-making are all essential to PM roles. Once you identify your strengths, it’s crucial to seek mentorship, network, and educate yourself on PM fundamentals. There are plenty of resources available online, both free and paid. Remember, learning on the job is a huge part of the process. The best of us learn on the job, don’t wait until you know everything. Dive in, and the experience will follow!

• What’s your advice for new PMs starting out?

Stay hungry, stay curious, and stay consistent. Find a mentor who inspires you and mirrors your aspirations. When I started, I admired a LinkedIn connection whose journey motivated me to push forward. Looking back now, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Be persistent, adaptable, and never stop learning.

• ?What do you do outside of work? Hobbies or activities?

Outside of work, I’m a big fan of music, it’s my way of unwinding and getting inspired. I also love mentoring others, particularly those looking to break into product management or tech. It’s rewarding to help others grow and achieve their goals. Oh, and I’m an avid cook! Nothing beats preparing a great meal and sharing it with loved ones.

I am so grateful for your time Ibukunoluwa (Theresa) Ajibare it means a lot to me and my audience. Someone reading this will be prepared for what is to come. Thank you!

So if you are pivoting to tech and want to make a difference, join our community. Are you new to product management and looking to accelerate your career in tech? Join our growing community on Telegram, "All Things Product" (https://lnkd.in/eQjtJjEJ), to connect with experienced professionals, gain valuable insights, and access top-notch resources!

Stay tuned till next time as we feature more existing personalities building amazing products and doing their best work changing lives one product at a time.