Senior Product Manager, Accessibility
Drives product strategy to ensure digital tools are inclusive and accessible for all users.
Overview
This career involves a high degree of cross-functional coordination to embed accessibility into every stage of the product lifecycle. Day-to-day activities range from defining technical requirements and reviewing design mockups to collaborating with legal teams on compliance roadmaps. The work requires a balance of technical understanding of assistive technologies and the strategic vision to advocate for inclusive features in a competitive market.
The rhythm of the role is often dictated by product release cycles and long-term regulatory deadlines. Problem-solving focuses on resolving conflicts between aesthetic design choices and functional accessibility requirements. Success in this field typically comes to those who possess strong analytical skills and the ability to influence stakeholders across an entire organization without direct authority.
The rhythm of the role is often dictated by product release cycles and long-term regulatory deadlines. Problem-solving focuses on resolving conflicts between aesthetic design choices and functional accessibility requirements. Success in this field typically comes to those who possess strong analytical skills and the ability to influence stakeholders across an entire organization without direct authority.
Responsibilities
- Define the product roadmap for accessibility features and inclusive design enhancements.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure implementation of WCAG standards across digital platforms.
- Conduct user research sessions specifically involving participants with diverse physical and cognitive abilities.
- Review design prototypes for compliance with accessibility guidelines and inclusive user experiences.
- Manage relationships with external accessibility auditors and legal compliance consultants.
- Provide internal training and resources to evangelize accessibility best practices across the organization.
Qualifications
- Five or more years of experience in product management within a technology or software environment.
- Deep technical knowledge of Web Content Accessibility Guidelines and related international regulations.
- Proven experience working with assistive technologies such as screen readers, magnifiers, and voice control software.
- Strong proficiency in agile development methodologies and product management software tools.
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for presenting complex compliance data to stakeholders.
Nice to have
- Professional certification in accessibility such as the CPACC or WAS from the IAAP.
- Experience leading large-scale digital transformation projects in a highly regulated industry.
- A background in UX design or front-end engineering with a focus on semantic HTML and ARIA.
- Advanced degree in Human-Computer Interaction or a related technical field.
Work environment
- Work is primarily conducted in office settings or through remote collaboration platforms.
- Teams are typically cross-functional, involving designers, developers, and legal specialists.
- Standard business hours are common, though product launches may require occasional evening work.
- Communication relies heavily on video conferencing, documentation tools, and project management software.
Benefits & growth
- Compensation often includes a base salary, performance bonuses, and stock options or restricted stock units.
- Career progression typically leads to Director of Accessibility or Head of Inclusive Product roles.
- Professional development is supported through attendance at specialized accessibility and product management conferences.
- The role offers significant opportunities to influence the long-term ethical and inclusive strategy of a corporation.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Senior Product Manager of Accessibility do?
A Senior Product Manager of Accessibility oversees the entire lifecycle of technology products to ensure they are usable by people of all abilities. They define accessibility requirements, collaborate with design and engineering teams to implement inclusive features, and ensure compliance with global standards like WCAG.
What skills are needed for a Senior Product Manager of Accessibility?
Key skills include a deep understanding of assistive technologies, WCAG compliance standards, and inclusive design principles. Success in this role also requires strong product strategy, cross-functional leadership, and the ability to advocate for user-centric accessibility features throughout the development process.
What is the career path for a Senior Product Manager of Accessibility?
The career path typically begins with roles in product management, UX design, or software engineering with a focus on inclusion. From a senior level, professionals can advance into leadership positions such as Head of Accessibility, Director of Inclusive Design, or VP of Product Strategy.
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