Director of IT Product Strategy & Portfolio

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Director of IT Product Strategy & Portfolio

Company: Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED)

Location: Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: IT Product Management & Strategy

Date Posted: April 24, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years (with 6 years general admin/management and 2 years supervisory minimum)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the development and execution of enterprise-level IT product strategy and portfolio management for the Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) and its nine state agencies.

• Drive product delivery and execution across a diverse digital and application landscape, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and constituent needs.

• Establish and champion robust product management discipline and best practices throughout the Secretariat.

• Oversee the modernization of priority platforms and the strategic integration of practical and responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities into applications and technical programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within a governmental executive office, implying a focus on public service, citizen engagement, and adherence to public sector procurement and governance standards. The strategic nature of the role suggests significant influence on technology investment decisions and digital transformation initiatives across multiple agencies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and refine EOED's overarching enterprise product strategy in close collaboration with Secretariat and agency leadership.

• Oversee a dynamic portfolio of digital products, platforms, and application modernization initiatives, maintaining a holistic view of investments, dependencies, risks, and opportunities.

• Lead comprehensive portfolio roadmap planning and prioritization processes to ensure optimal allocation of EOED resources towards high-impact opportunities.

• Partner directly with agency leaders and designated product owners to define product direction, establish measurable business outcomes, and set clear delivery priorities.

• Strategically incorporate AI opportunities, dependencies, and governance considerations into all aspects of product portfolio planning, roadmap development, and investment prioritization.

• Establish, implement, and institutionalize standardized product management processes, frameworks, and governance models across all EOED agencies to ensure consistent prioritization, planning, delivery, and performance measurement.

• Develop clear product visions for significant EOED products, collaborating with agency product owners and establishing agency-specific visions where necessary.

• Foster buy-in and alignment for product direction among cross-functional teams, executive stakeholders, and agency leadership through effective communication and strategic influence.

• Guide product owners and delivery partners in balancing immediate operational requirements with long-term platform modernization objectives.

• Utilize qualitative and quantitative inputs, including user feedback, operational insights, policy requirements, and performance data, to inform critical roadmap decisions and product evolution.

• Coordinate closely with the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security (EOTSS) on statewide technology initiatives, shared services, architectural standards, and delivery dependencies.

• Guide the evaluation, selection, and management of technology platforms and tools in partnership with legal, finance, and procurement teams to effectively support EOED agencies.

• Work collaboratively with third-party consultants and implementation partners to ensure strict alignment with EOED priorities, delivery expectations, and stringent quality standards.

• Proactively monitor progress across all product initiatives, escalating risks, blockers, and resource needs to leadership in a timely manner.

• Support high-quality delivery practices by ensuring consistent alignment between product priorities, user needs, and overarching organizational goals throughout the implementation lifecycle.

• Define and institutionalize enterprise product operating procedures and portfolio management practices, ensuring seamless alignment across agencies, vendors, stakeholders, and technology partners.

• Promote user-centered design principles and a commitment to high-quality user experience across all EOED public-facing and internal digital products.

• Champion robust product discovery practices that integrate user research, feedback loops, journey mapping, and service design principles.

• Ensure products effectively meet the diverse needs of businesses, residents, municipalities, agency staff, and other partners, thereby enhancing service effectiveness and optimizing staff workflows.

• Integrate practical and responsible AI capabilities into EOED applications and technical programs, focusing on workflow enablement, internal productivity enhancements, and beneficial citizen-facing functionalities.

• Partner with relevant stakeholders to thoroughly evaluate AI use cases for feasibility, demonstrated value, robust governance, privacy implications, and operational readiness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong strategic thinking, cross-functional leadership, and the ability to navigate complex governmental agency structures and technology ecosystems. The emphasis on AI and modernization indicates a forward-looking approach to public service delivery.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A Bachelor's degree in a related field is required.

• A Graduate degree in a related field may substitute for two years of the required general experience.

• A Doctorate degree in a related field may substitute for three years of the required general experience.

Experience:

• Minimum of six (6) years of full-time or equivalent part-time professional, administrative, supervisory, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, public administration, public management, clinical administration, or clinical management.

• Of the six years required, at least two (2) years must have been in a supervisory or managerial capacity.

• Preferred: Eight (8) or more years of experience specifically in product management, digital product leadership, technology strategy, or related IT leadership roles, including demonstrated responsibility for complex, cross-functional initiatives.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated experience leading product strategy, roadmap development, and achieving stakeholder alignment across complex, multi-stakeholder environments.

• Strong understanding of product management principles, service design, user-centered design, and modern digital delivery practices.

• Knowledge of Agile and related software development lifecycle (SDLC) methodologies, with the ability to adapt product practices to organizational context.

• Strong communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with application modernization, enterprise platforms, workflow tools, and regulated operational systems.

• Experience with practical AI adoption in enterprise or public-sector settings.

• Experience working with government agencies, community groups, businesses, and nonprofits.

• Knowledge of economic development programs, policy, incentives, and related business regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The minimum requirements are framed around general public administration experience, while the preferred qualifications are highly specific to IT product leadership. Applicants should highlight their experience in product management and IT strategy to align with the preferred qualifications, while also demonstrating how their broader administrative experience has prepared them for this senior role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable experience in developing and executing comprehensive product strategies that have led to measurable improvements in service delivery or operational efficiency.

• Case studies showcasing successful portfolio management, including prioritization frameworks, roadmap development, and resource allocation strategies for a diverse set of digital products or initiatives.

• Examples of product delivery oversight, highlighting the ability to manage complex projects, coordinate with multiple stakeholders (including third-party vendors), and ensure timely, high-quality outcomes.

• Evidence of implementing or improving product management processes, frameworks, or governance models within an organization, with a focus on standardization and consistency.

• Portfolio pieces that illustrate the application of user-centered design, service design principles, and user research in product development.

• Documentation or examples demonstrating experience with application modernization efforts, including strategy, planning, and execution.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of product vision documents, strategic roadmaps, and prioritization matrices.

• Documentation of established product management lifecycles, from discovery and ideation through delivery and iteration.

• Process flows or methodologies for stakeholder engagement and alignment across diverse groups.

• Frameworks for evaluating and integrating new technologies, including AI, into the product portfolio.

• Templates or examples of governance models for product portfolio management in a multi-agency or complex organizational structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the governmental context and the focus on modernization and AI, the portfolio should emphasize structured approaches, clear decision-making processes, and demonstrable impact on public services or operational efficiency. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how they have applied these processes in previous roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts typically offers competitive salaries for senior leadership positions within its agencies. While a specific range is not provided, based on the Director-level title, the significant responsibilities, and the location in Boston, MA, a salary range for this role would likely fall between $130,000 - $180,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar Director-level IT Product Strategy and Portfolio roles in major metropolitan areas, considering the public sector context which may offer different compensation structures compared to the private sector.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Benefits: Participation in the Massachusetts State Employees' Retirement System (MSERS), offering a defined benefit pension plan.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and attendance at relevant conferences.

• Employee Assistance Programs: Support services for employees and their families.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time schedule: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM EST.

• This position follows a hybrid model, combining in-office workdays at One Federal Street, Boston, MA, with designated work-from-home days as required.

• Total estimated weekly hours: 40 hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry standards. Government positions may have specific salary scales and pay grades that differ from private sector roles. The provided benefits are typical for public sector employment in Massachusetts and are meant to be illustrative.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government / Public Sector (Economic Development)

Company Size: Large (Executive Office with multiple agencies, employing thousands across the Commonwealth)

Founded: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has a long history of governance. The Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) operates as a key branch of the state government.

Team Structure:

• The Director will operate within the Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED), likely reporting to a senior IT leader or a Deputy Secretary.

• This role involves extensive collaboration with IT leadership, program directors, and product owners across EOED's nine state agencies and five quasi-public agencies.

• Close partnership with the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security (EOTSS) is essential for alignment on statewide technology initiatives and shared services.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using qualitative and quantitative inputs, including user feedback, operational insights, policy requirements, and performance data to inform strategy and prioritization.

• User-Centered Design & Service Design: A commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of citizens, businesses, and internal stakeholders through thoughtful product development and service delivery.

• Agile & Iterative Development: While specific methodologies may vary by agency, the expectation is an understanding and adaptation of Agile principles and modern digital delivery practices.

• Strategic Portfolio Management: A structured approach to planning, prioritizing, and managing a portfolio of IT products and platforms to maximize value and align with organizational goals.

• Responsible AI Integration: A forward-thinking approach to evaluating and incorporating AI capabilities, with a strong emphasis on governance, privacy, and ethical considerations.

Company Website: https://www.mass.gov/executive-office-of-economic-development

📝 Enhancement Note: The governmental nature of EOED implies a culture that values public service, equity, inclusion, and collaboration. Decisions are often guided by policy, regulatory compliance, and the need to serve a broad and diverse constituency. The integration of AI will be approached with a high degree of caution and adherence to ethical guidelines.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership role, a Director-level position, responsible for defining and overseeing strategy and portfolio management across an entire executive office and its constituent agencies. It requires a blend of strategic vision, deep technical understanding, and strong leadership capabilities.

Reporting Structure: The Director will likely report to a senior executive within EOED, such as a Chief Information Officer (CIO), Deputy Secretary of Technology, or a similar high-level official. They will manage relationships with agency IT leaders and product owners, and collaborate extensively with EOTSS and other state IT functions.

Operations Impact: This role has a significant impact on the efficiency, effectiveness, and modernization of public services delivered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. By shaping product strategy and portfolio investments, the Director directly influences how technology supports economic growth, agency operations, and citizen engagement, ultimately driving better outcomes for the residents and businesses of Massachusetts. The integration of AI and modernization efforts will have a transformative effect on service delivery.

Growth Opportunities:

• Strategic Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher-level executive IT leadership roles within the Commonwealth, such as CIO or Chief Digital Officer, overseeing broader technology initiatives.

• Specialization in Public Sector Digital Transformation: Deepen expertise in leading large-scale digital transformation and AI adoption within government, becoming a recognized leader in the field.

• Cross-Agency Influence: Expand influence and impact by driving successful product strategies and portfolio management across multiple government agencies.

• Mentorship and Team Building: Opportunity to build and mentor a team of product managers and strategists, fostering a culture of excellence in product development.

• Policy Influence: Contribute to the development of IT policy and strategy at the state level, particularly concerning emerging technologies like AI.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the digital future of economic development in a major state government. Growth potential is significant for those who can demonstrate success in implementing complex strategies and driving impactful technological change in a public sector environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work location is a professional office environment within the Commonwealth's government facilities. This suggests a structured workplace with standard office amenities.

Office Location(s):

• Primary Location: One Federal Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110. This is a central Boston location, accessible via public transportation.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect regular collaboration with agency IT teams, executive leadership, EOTSS, and external partners. This will involve meetings, workshops, and presentations.

• Technology Access: As a Director of IT Product Strategy, access to modern IT infrastructure, collaboration tools, and necessary software will be provided.

• Data-Centric Operations: The role involves extensive use of data for analysis, decision-making, and performance tracking, requiring a data-rich environment.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST, totaling 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid arrangement offers some flexibility in balancing in-office and remote work, accommodating personal needs while ensuring team collaboration and operational effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model in a government setting typically means a structured approach to remote work, with clear expectations for in-office presence for key meetings and collaborative sessions. The Boston location offers access to a vibrant tech and government ecosystem.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

The interview process for a Director-level role in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts typically involves several stages designed to assess strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and fit within the public sector environment.

1. Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and any submitted materials to ensure minimum qualifications are met.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the hiring manager to assess your experience, leadership style, understanding of product strategy and portfolio management, and alignment with the role's core responsibilities. Be prepared to discuss your approach to AI integration and modernization.

3. Panel Interview: An interview with a panel of stakeholders, which may include agency IT leaders, EOTSS representatives, and other senior executives. This stage evaluates your ability to collaborate, communicate effectively with diverse groups, and handle complex challenges.

4. Presentation/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to prepare and deliver a presentation or work through a case study related to product strategy, portfolio prioritization, or AI implementation in a public sector context. This assesses your strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and communication abilities.

5. Final Interview: A final discussion with a senior executive to confirm suitability for the role and discuss final terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Strategic Roadmaps: Showcase examples of strategic roadmaps you've developed, clearly outlining vision, key initiatives, timelines, and dependencies.

• Portfolio Prioritization Frameworks: Present your methodology for prioritizing a portfolio of projects or products, demonstrating how you balance competing demands, align with strategic goals, and consider ROI.

• Product Strategy Examples: Provide examples of product strategies you've authored, detailing market analysis, user needs, competitive landscape, and go-to-market (or go-public) plans.

• AI Integration Case Studies: If applicable, include case studies illustrating how you've evaluated, planned for, and implemented AI solutions, emphasizing responsible deployment and measurable outcomes.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Highlight projects where you successfully managed complex stakeholder relationships, including government agencies, vendors, and internal teams. Clearly articulate your communication and negotiation strategies.

• Metrics and Impact: For each portfolio piece, be prepared to discuss the key metrics used to measure success and the tangible impact on operational efficiency, service delivery, or constituent satisfaction. Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Adaptability: Be ready to discuss how you adapted product processes and strategies to specific organizational contexts, particularly within the public sector.

Challenge Preparation:

• Strategic Thinking: Prepare to discuss how you would approach developing a unified product strategy for multiple diverse agencies within EOED.

• Prioritization Scenarios: Be ready to tackle hypothetical scenarios involving limited resources and competing priorities across different agency needs.

• AI Governance: Prepare to discuss your approach to establishing governance for AI initiatives, including ethical considerations, data privacy, and risk management in a public sector setting.

• Stakeholder Management: Practice articulating complex technical strategies and product visions in clear, concise language suitable for non-technical executives and diverse agency stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a government role often emphasizes understanding of public service, policy, and fiscal responsibility. Candidates should demonstrate a strategic mindset that balances innovation with accountability and compliance.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Product Management Platforms: Experience with tools like Jira, Confluence, Asana, Monday.com, or similar for project tracking, roadmap planning, and documentation.

• Collaboration Suites: Proficiency with Microsoft 365 (Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive) or Google Workspace for communication, document sharing, and collaborative work.

• CRM Systems: Familiarity with CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) may be beneficial, especially for understanding constituent-facing applications.

• Agile Management Tools: Experience with tools supporting Agile workflows, such as Jira or Trello, for managing sprints and backlogs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Experience with BI platforms like Tableau, Power BI, Qlik, or similar for creating dashboards, analyzing performance data, and generating reports.

• Web Analytics: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics for understanding user behavior on public-facing websites and applications.

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in using spreadsheet software (Excel, Google Sheets) for data manipulation and analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• Workflow Automation Tools: Understanding of how workflow automation can be applied to government processes.

• Integration Platforms: Familiarity with concepts of system integration and APIs, especially in the context of connecting different government systems or services.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, the role requires a strong understanding of the types of tools used in product management, strategic planning, and digital delivery. The emphasis is on the strategic application of these tools rather than deep technical expertise in any single one. Knowledge of AI development and deployment tools or platforms may also be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Public Service: A deep commitment to serving the citizens, businesses, and communities of Massachusetts through effective and efficient government services.

• Equity and Inclusion: A dedication to fostering a welcoming, respectful, and equitable work environment for all employees and ensuring that services are accessible and fair to all constituents.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and partnership across agencies, departments, and with external stakeholders to achieve common goals.

• Innovation and Modernization: A drive to adopt new technologies and approaches, including AI, to improve service delivery, enhance operational efficiency, and modernize government functions.

• Accountability and Transparency: A commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources, transparent decision-making, and measurable outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration with diverse teams, including agency IT departments, EOTSS, legal, finance, and procurement, requiring strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Proactive and inclusive engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, ensuring their needs and perspectives are considered in product strategy and portfolio decisions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fostering an environment where best practices in product management, service design, and AI are shared and adopted across the Secretariat and its agencies.

• Process Improvement Focus: A continuous effort to refine and optimize product development and portfolio management processes, encouraging feedback and iterative improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values of the Commonwealth, as stated in the job description, emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion. Candidates should demonstrate alignment with these values and an understanding of how they translate into both internal operations and external service delivery.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Bureaucracy and Agency Silos: Balancing the need for enterprise-wide standardization and modernization with the unique needs, priorities, and existing systems of nine distinct state agencies.

• Legacy Systems and Technical Debt: Addressing and modernizing aging IT infrastructure and applications across multiple agencies, which can be complex and resource-intensive.

• Resource Constraints: Managing product portfolios and driving innovation within the budgetary and procurement constraints typical of government organizations.

• AI Adoption and Governance: Strategically integrating AI while establishing robust governance frameworks that address ethical concerns, data privacy, security, and public trust.

• Change Management: Driving adoption of new product management practices, technologies, and AI solutions across a large and diverse workforce.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Public Sector Digital Transformation Leadership: Gaining unparalleled experience in leading digital transformation and AI adoption within a large government entity.

• Advanced Portfolio Management: Developing expertise in managing complex, multi-agency IT portfolios, with a focus on strategic alignment and value realization.

• AI Strategy and Governance: Deepening knowledge in the ethical deployment, governance, and strategic application of AI in public services.

• Cross-Agency Influence and Collaboration: Building a strong network and influence across various state agencies and executive offices.

• Executive Leadership Development: Opportunities to engage with senior leadership and contribute to high-level strategic planning within the Commonwealth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges common in public sector IT modernization efforts. However, successfully navigating these challenges offers substantial opportunities for professional growth and development, particularly in the rapidly evolving fields of digital transformation and AI.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach developing a unified IT product strategy for the Executive Office of Economic Development, considering the diverse missions and needs of its nine agencies?"

• "Describe your framework for prioritizing a portfolio of IT initiatives, especially when faced with limited resources and competing demands from different agencies. How would you incorporate AI into this prioritization?"

• "What are the key considerations for establishing effective governance for AI initiatives within a public sector organization like EOED? How would you balance innovation with ethical concerns, data privacy, and public trust?"

• "Walk me through a successful product modernization project you led. What were the biggest challenges, and how did you overcome them?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of EOED and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, what do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges for digital transformation in economic development?"

• "How would you ensure alignment between your product strategy and the broader goals of the Executive Office of Economic Development and the state government?"

• "Describe your experience working with government agencies, external consultants, and cross-functional teams. How do you build consensus and manage diverse stakeholder expectations?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio around key themes such as "Product Strategy Development," "Portfolio Prioritization & Management," "Digital Transformation & Modernization," and "AI Integration."

• Storytelling: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem statement, your strategic approach, the solutions implemented, the challenges faced, and the measurable outcomes achieved. Quantify impact wherever possible (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, improved citizen satisfaction).

• Visual Aids: Utilize clear, concise visuals (e.g., roadmap examples, process diagrams, dashboard mockups) to illustrate your points.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize the methodologies, frameworks, and processes you employed, showcasing your structured approach to product management and portfolio oversight.

• Adaptability: Be prepared to discuss how you adapted your strategies and processes to different organizational contexts, particularly highlighting your understanding of public sector nuances.

• AI Readiness: Clearly articulate your approach to evaluating and integrating AI, demonstrating a balance between innovation and responsible implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a strategic leader who understands the unique environment of public service, can drive modernization, and can effectively manage complex portfolios with a forward-looking approach to technology like AI.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Director of IT Product Strategy & Portfolio position:

• Submit Your Application: Navigate to the provided link on the massanf.taleo.net portal and complete the application.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights experience directly relevant to product strategy, portfolio management, digital leadership, application modernization, and AI integration. Quantify achievements and leadership responsibilities.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that showcases your strategic thinking, process implementation, and project successes. Focus on case studies demonstrating your ability to lead complex IT initiatives, manage cross-functional teams, and drive impactful outcomes. Be ready to present and discuss your portfolio confidently.

• Research EOED: Thoroughly research the Executive Office of Economic Development, its agencies, mission, and current initiatives. Understand the public sector context and how technology supports economic growth and citizen services in Massachusetts.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare thoughtful answers to potential interview questions, focusing on strategic leadership, problem-solving, stakeholder management, and your vision for IT product strategy and AI in government. Practice articulating your experience and approach clearly and concisely, aligning with the Commonwealth's values.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.