[US-HQ] Senior Manager, Product Strategy

HelloFresh
Full_time$136k-170k/year (USD)Chicago, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Manager, Product Strategy Company: HelloFresh (Factor_ brand) Location: Chicago, Illinois (Hybrid) Job Type: Full-time / Standard Category: Product Strategy & Innovation / GTM Operations Date Posted: February 10, 2026 Experience Level: 5+ Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

  • Drives growth and achieves ambitious product targets, including revenue, take rate, and customer retention, through strategic product initiatives.
  • Leads the end-to-end execution of high-impact physical and digital product launches, managing cross-functional interdependencies and aligning stakeholders.
  • Acts as a strategic partner to Technology teams, crafting robust business cases and influencing prioritization with clear financial and organizational rationale.
  • Monitors and reports on launch performance, deriving actionable insights to shape future business decisions and product direction.
  • Leverages industry trends, competitive intelligence, and customer research to guide product strategy, collaborating with internal research teams to uncover new customer insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Manager, Product Strategy," the responsibilities heavily lean into Go-To-Market (GTM) operations and product launch execution. This role requires a strong understanding of operationalizing product roadmaps, driving adoption, and measuring success through key performance indicators (KPIs), aligning closely with GTM operations functions. The emphasis on data, cross-functional collaboration, and business case development suggests a significant operations component.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Lead the end-to-end execution of high-impact physical and digital product launches, proactively managing cross-functional interdependencies and aligning stakeholders across Tech, Marketing, and Operations teams.
  • Own and facilitate Monthly and Quarterly Business Reviews (MBRs/QBRs) for the product portfolio, bringing analytical rigor, business acumen, and leadership presence to drive performance discussions and strategic alignment.
  • Serve as a strategic partner to Technology teams by crafting robust business cases for initiatives requiring cross-functional investment and influencing prioritization through clear financial and organizational rationale.
  • Monitor and report on launch performance, surfacing key insights and translating them into strategic recommendations that actively shape future business decisions and product iteration.
  • Leverage industry trends, competitive intelligence, and customer research to guide product direction, collaborating closely with internal research teams to unlock new customer insights and inform portfolio growth strategies.
  • Partner with Marketing to inform go-to-market campaigns, messaging, and ongoing content strategy for the assigned product portfolio, ensuring cohesive brand representation and customer engagement.
  • Develop and maintain detailed project plans, timelines, and communication strategies for product initiatives to ensure seamless execution and stakeholder visibility.
  • Identify and assess potential risks and roadblocks for product launches and strategic initiatives, developing contingency plans to ensure successful delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities suggest a strong need for process definition and optimization in product launch and business review cycles. Candidates will be expected to not just execute but also refine these processes for greater efficiency and impact, aligning with core Revenue Operations and GTM Operations principles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in Business Administration, Product Development, Product Strategy, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience:

  • Minimum of 5+ years of experience in consulting, strategy, product marketing, or product management.
  • Proven experience in roles with a focus on subscription models or Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industries is highly preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple cross-functional stakeholders and drive consensus across diverse teams and offices.
  • Track record of successfully influencing and collaborating with cross-functional teams, including Tech, Product Strategy, and Performance Marketing.

Required Skills:

  • Product Strategy & Roadmapping: Ability to define and execute strategic product roadmaps, translating business objectives into actionable plans for both physical and digital products.
  • Project Management Excellence: Strong project management capabilities, with a demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage complex deliverables, and consistently meet deadlines.
  • Analytical Rigor & Business Acumen: Proficiency in analyzing complex data sets, developing financial models, and crafting compelling business cases to support strategic initiatives and resource allocation.
  • Stakeholder Management & Influence: Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively influence, align, and communicate with stakeholders at all levels across diverse departments.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively and build strong partnerships with Technology, Marketing, Operations, and other business units.
  • Market & Customer Insight Generation: Experience leveraging industry trends, competitive intelligence, and customer research to inform product strategy and identify growth opportunities.
  • Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Skill in tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) for product launches and initiatives, synthesizing data into actionable insights, and presenting findings clearly.
  • Adaptability & Agility: Ability to thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments, quickly learn new concepts, and balance innovation with business objectives.
  • Detail-Oriented Execution: Exceptional attention to detail and a meticulous approach to managing multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders without compromising quality.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with subscription-based business models and CPG industry dynamics.
  • Familiarity with agile product development methodologies.
  • Experience in designing and optimizing go-to-market strategies and campaigns.
  • Proficiency in data visualization tools for reporting and presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5+ years" experience level, combined with the strategic and execution-focused responsibilities, positions this role as a mid-to-senior level individual contributor with significant project leadership potential. The emphasis on influencing tech and marketing teams highlights the GTM operations aspect of this product strategy role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Product Launch Case Studies: Showcase successful end-to-end execution of physical and/or digital product launches, detailing the strategy, cross-functional collaboration, challenges overcome, and measurable outcomes (revenue, take rate, retention, etc.).
  • Business Case Development Examples: Provide examples of robust business cases developed for new initiatives, demonstrating financial modeling, market analysis, and clear articulation of organizational rationale and ROI.
  • Performance Review Documentation: Samples of MBR/QBR content or executive summaries that demonstrate analytical rigor, clear insights, and strategic recommendations derived from performance data.
  • Cross-Functional Project Management Examples: Illustrate how complex projects involving multiple teams (Tech, Marketing, Operations) were managed, highlighting stakeholder alignment strategies and problem-solving approaches.

Process Documentation:

  • Demonstrate experience in defining, documenting, and optimizing workflows related to product development cycles, launch processes, and business review cadences.
  • Ability to articulate how processes were improved for efficiency, clarity, and impact, using data to support the rationale for process changes.
  • Showcase understanding of how to integrate new product initiatives into existing operational frameworks and reporting structures.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to present specific examples of processes they have influenced or created, particularly those related to product lifecycles, launch readiness, and performance reporting. The ability to articulate the "how" and "why" behind process improvements is critical.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Illinois: $136,300 - $159,000 USD per year
  • New York: $145,800 - $170,100 USD per year
  • Other Locations (if applicable): Salary will be commensurate with experience and location, reflecting the company's commitment to competitive compensation across its hybrid work locations.

Benefits:

  • Competitive Salary: Base salary aligned with industry standards and location.
  • 401k: Company match available, with immediate vesting upon participation.
  • Company Equity Plan: Potential for stock options or grants, based on role and performance.
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO): Including opportunities for sabbatical leave.
  • Parental Leave: Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave.
  • Comprehensive Health & Wellness: Robust benefits package with options available at $0 monthly premium, effective from the first day of employment.
  • Tuition Reimbursement: Available for continuing education after two years of service.
  • Employee Discounts: Up to 85% discount on subscriptions for HelloFresh meal plans (HelloFresh, Green Chef, Everyplate, and Factor_).
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): Access to seven ERGs supporting diverse communities (BIPOC, women, veterans, parents, LGBTQ+, etc.).
  • Dynamic Work Environment: Inclusive, collaborative, and fast-paced atmosphere within a mission-driven company.

Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be afforded based on project needs and team collaboration, aligning with hybrid work expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary ranges are specific to New York and Illinois, reflecting the hybrid options. For candidates in other locations, it's reasonable to expect compensation to align with local market rates for similar senior-level strategy and operations roles, with potential adjustments based on cost of living and local competitive benchmarks.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage, E-commerce, Subscription Services, Technology. HelloFresh operates in the rapidly evolving meal kit and prepared meal delivery market, leveraging technology to disrupt traditional food supply chains. Company Size: Large enterprise, with a significant global presence and a substantial employee base, indicating ample resources and opportunities for impact. Founded: HelloFresh was founded in 2011, growing rapidly into a leading global meal kit company. The Factor_ brand, a part of HelloFresh, focuses on providing ready-to-eat meals, expanding the company's reach within the food delivery ecosystem.

Team Structure:

  • The Product Strategy and Innovation Team likely comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds in strategy, product management, marketing, and analytics, focused on driving growth for specific product portfolios.
  • This role will report into a Director or VP level within Product Strategy or a related GTM function, with direct leadership over specific product initiatives.
  • Significant cross-functional collaboration is expected with Technology (Engineering, Product Management), Marketing (Performance, Brand, Content), Operations, and potentially Finance and Data Science teams.

Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data analytics, performance metrics, and customer insights to inform strategic decisions and product development.
  • Agile & Iterative Approach: Likely employing agile methodologies for product development and launch, with a focus on continuous testing, learning, and iteration.
  • Strategic Planning & Execution: A structured approach to developing long-term product strategies and executing them through detailed roadmaps and project management.
  • Customer-Centricity: A core focus on understanding customer needs and preferences to drive product innovation and enhance the customer experience.

Company Website: https://careers.hellofresh.com/global/en

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's rapid growth and mission-driven nature suggest a dynamic and demanding work environment. Candidates should be prepared for a culture that values innovation, speed, and measurable results, common in fast-growing GTM and operations environments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior Manager, indicating a significant level of responsibility and autonomy. It's a strategic individual contributor role with strong project leadership capabilities, bridging the gap between high-level strategy and operational execution. The focus on driving revenue and retention places it firmly within the GTM and Revenue Operations sphere.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Manager will likely report to a Director or VP of Product Strategy or a similar senior leadership role within the product or GTM organization. This provides exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making processes.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on revenue, customer acquisition, and retention. By successfully launching and optimizing physical and digital products, the Senior Manager will contribute significantly to the company's growth targets and market position. The emphasis on business cases and influencing prioritization means this role has the potential to shape significant investments and strategic direction.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Director-level roles within Product Strategy, GTM Operations, or related functional areas, managing larger teams or broader portfolios.
  • Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific product categories (e.g., digital product innovation, subscription models) or operational areas (e.g., go-to-market execution, business intelligence).
  • Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to transition into broader Product Management, Marketing Strategy, or operational leadership roles within HelloFresh or its other brands.
  • Skill Development: Continuous learning through exposure to complex business challenges, advanced analytics, and strategic decision-making processes, supported by company benefits like tuition reimbursement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a strong foundation for a career in product strategy and GTM operations, with clear pathways for growth into leadership and specialized roles within the larger HelloFresh ecosystem. The emphasis on measurable impact and strategic influence is key for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid role, allowing for a blend of remote work and in-office collaboration at HelloFresh's US Headquarters (NYC, Chicago, or Boulder). This offers flexibility while ensuring opportunities for in-person teamwork.

Office Location(s):

  • New York City, NY Headquarters
  • Chicago, IL Headquarters
  • Boulder, CO Headquarters Candidates are expected to be based in or willing to relocate to one of these hubs to facilitate hybrid work arrangements.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Spaces: The office environments are designed to foster collaboration, with meeting rooms, project areas, and common spaces conducive to brainstorming and cross-functional work.
  • Technology & Tools: Access to standard office technology, high-speed internet, and the necessary software suites (Microsoft Office, Google Suite) for effective execution of responsibilities.
  • Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for direct interaction with team members, cross-functional partners, and leadership, crucial for building relationships and driving alignment on product initiatives.

Work Schedule:

  • The role is full-time, typically 40 hours per week. While a standard schedule is expected, the hybrid nature and fast-paced environment may require flexibility to accommodate project deadlines and critical launch phases. The company culture emphasizes results and efficient work practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model requires self-discipline and strong communication skills to maintain productivity and collaboration across different work locations. Candidates should be comfortable managing their time effectively and proactively engaging with colleagues both remotely and in-office.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications for basic qualifications and cultural fit.
  • Hiring Manager Interview: Focus on experience, strategic thinking, project management approach, and alignment with role responsibilities. Be prepared to discuss past product launches and strategic initiatives.
  • Cross-Functional Panel Interview: This stage will likely involve interviews with key stakeholders from Technology, Marketing, and potentially Operations. Expect questions assessing collaboration skills, ability to influence, and understanding of GTM dynamics.
  • Case Study / Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare a presentation on a product strategy, launch plan, or business case for a hypothetical or past initiative. This assesses analytical skills, strategic thinking, and presentation capabilities.
  • Final Interview: Typically with a senior leader (Director/VP) to assess overall fit, leadership potential, and strategic vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Quantify Impact: For each project or case study, clearly articulate the business objectives, your specific role, the actions taken, and the measurable results (e.g., % increase in revenue, reduction in churn, adoption rates). Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
  • Showcase Process Ownership: Highlight instances where you defined, improved, or optimized processes related to product launches, business reviews, or cross-functional workflows.
  • Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: Clearly articulate the "why" behind your strategies, linking them to broader business goals and market opportunities.
  • Tailor to HelloFresh: Research HelloFresh and Factor_ to understand their market position, customer base, and strategic priorities. Frame your experience and portfolio examples to demonstrate how you can contribute to their specific challenges and goals.
  • Focus on Cross-Functional Collaboration: Provide examples that clearly show your ability to work with and influence diverse teams, especially Tech and Marketing.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Product Strategy Case: Be prepared to analyze a market scenario, identify opportunities, and propose a product strategy, including a high-level roadmap and key performance indicators.
  • Launch Plan Exercise: You might be asked to outline a go-to-market plan for a new product feature or offering, considering target audience, messaging, channels, and success metrics.
  • Business Case Development: Practice constructing a concise and compelling business case, outlining the problem, proposed solution, financial projections, and risks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only strategic thinking but also the practical ability to execute and manage complex initiatives within a cross-functional environment. A well-prepared portfolio that quantifies impact and demonstrates process ownership will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools for Role:

  • Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel (for financial modeling, data analysis, business cases) and PowerPoint/Slides (for presentations, MBR/QBRs, stakeholder updates).
  • Google Suite: Strong command of Sheets (data analysis, collaboration) and Slides (presentations).
  • Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Jira, Asana, Trello, or Monday.com for tracking project timelines, tasks, and cross-functional dependencies.
  • Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams for daily communication and team coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • BI Tools: Experience with business intelligence platforms such as Tableau, Power BI, Looker, or similar for data visualization, dashboard creation, and performance monitoring.
  • Data Analysis Tools: Familiarity with SQL for data extraction and analysis is often beneficial for understanding underlying data.
  • Web Analytics: Experience with tools like Google Analytics or Adobe Analytics to understand digital product usage and performance.

CRM & Automation (Indirect Relevance):

  • While not directly a CRM role, understanding how CRM data (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) informs customer insights and segmentation is valuable.
  • Familiarity with marketing automation concepts and tools (e.g., Marketo, Pardot) can be helpful for understanding go-to-market campaign execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in data analysis and presentation tools is paramount. The ability to extract insights from data and communicate them effectively to diverse stakeholders is a core requirement for this strategy and GTM operations-focused role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Customer Obsession: A deep understanding of customer needs and a commitment to delivering value through product innovation and seamless execution.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Valuing analytical rigor, using data to inform strategy, measure success, and drive continuous improvement.
  • Collaboration & Transparency: Fostering an environment where cross-functional teams work together openly, share information, and support each other's objectives.
  • Bias for Action & Execution: A culture that encourages taking initiative, driving projects forward, and achieving tangible results in a fast-paced environment.
  • Innovation & Agility: Embracing new ideas, testing and learning, and adapting quickly to market changes and business needs.

Collaboration Style:

  • Proactive & Partnership-Oriented: Expected to actively engage with stakeholders, build strong working relationships, and seek alignment early and often.
  • Results-Focused: Collaboration is geared towards achieving specific business outcomes and product launch success.
  • Open Communication: Encouraging direct and honest feedback, both giving and receiving, to foster continuous improvement and strong working relationships.
  • Cross-Functional Integration: Working seamlessly across departmental lines, ensuring all relevant teams are informed and contributing to shared goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of entrepreneurial drive (fast-paced, innovation) and corporate structure (business reviews, structured processes). Candidates who can thrive in a dynamic yet accountable environment will be most successful.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Innovation with Execution: The need to drive new product initiatives while ensuring timely and successful launches within a large organization.
  • Cross-Functional Alignment: Navigating priorities and perspectives across multiple departments (Tech, Marketing, Operations, etc.) to ensure cohesive execution.
  • Data Interpretation & Actionability: Translating complex data and market trends into clear, actionable strategies and recommendations.
  • Pace of Change: Adapting to evolving market dynamics, customer preferences, and internal business priorities in a fast-growing company.
  • Hybrid Work Coordination: Effectively collaborating and maintaining team cohesion across different work locations and schedules.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Strategic Problem Solving: Engaging with complex business challenges that require innovative solutions and strategic foresight.
  • Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead high-impact projects, influence senior stakeholders, and potentially manage teams, honing leadership skills.
  • Industry Exposure: Gaining deep insights into the meal kit and prepared meal delivery market, subscription models, and CPG strategies.
  • Technical & Analytical Skill Enhancement: Working with advanced analytics tools, data sets, and business intelligence platforms.
  • Mentorship: Potential for mentorship from senior leaders within the Product Strategy and GTM organizations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents an excellent opportunity for professional growth by tackling significant business challenges and developing a broad skill set applicable to various GTM and product leadership roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you led the end-to-end execution of a complex product launch. What were the key challenges, how did you manage cross-functional dependencies, and what were the results?" (Focus on process, collaboration, and metrics).
  • "How would you approach building a business case for a new digital product feature that requires significant engineering investment? What key data points and financial metrics would you include?" (Assess analytical and financial acumen).
  • "Walk us through how you would prepare for and facilitate a Quarterly Business Review (QBR) for your product portfolio. What elements are critical for driving strategic alignment?" (Evaluate reporting, analytical, and communication skills).
  • "How do you leverage industry trends and customer research to inform product strategy? Can you give an example?" (Gauge market awareness and strategic thinking).

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about HelloFresh and the Factor_ brand specifically? How do you see your skills contributing to our growth objectives?" (Assesses research and alignment).
  • "Describe your experience working in a hybrid environment. What strategies do you use to ensure effective collaboration and productivity?" (Evaluates adaptability and work style).
  • "How do you handle disagreements or conflicting priorities with cross-functional teams?" (Probes collaboration and influencing skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio example, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Clearly define the business problem, your role, the steps you took, and the quantifiable outcomes.
  • Highlight Process & Impact: Emphasize any process improvements you implemented and the direct impact they had on efficiency, revenue, or customer metrics.
  • Visual Aids: Use clean, professional slides or documentation to present data, charts, and key takeaways. Ensure visuals are easy to understand and support your narrative.
  • Focus on Collaboration: Explicitly mention how you collaborated with Tech, Marketing, and other teams throughout your projects.
  • Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate follow-up questions on your methodology, decision-making process, and any challenges encountered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to demonstrate a strong understanding of product lifecycle management, GTM strategy, and the ability to translate data into actionable business insights. Quantifiable results and a clear articulation of your role in achieving them are crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Manager, Product Strategy position:

  • Submit your application directly through the HelloFresh Careers portal using the provided URL.
  • Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience in product strategy, launch execution, cross-functional leadership, and driving key business metrics (revenue, take rate, retention). Use keywords from the job description, such as "product strategy," "GTM," "stakeholder management," and "analytical rigor."
  • Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your ability to lead product initiatives, manage cross-functional teams, and achieve measurable results. Be ready to discuss these in detail, focusing on process, impact, and collaboration.
  • Research HelloFresh & Factor_: Understand their business models, market position, recent news, and strategic goals. This will help you tailor your responses and ask informed questions.
  • Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for common interview questions related to product strategy, project management, leadership, and GTM execution, using the STAR method and focusing on quantifiable achievements.

⚠️ 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.


Application Requirements

Candidates should have 5+ years of experience in consulting, strategy, product marketing, or product management, preferably in subscription models or CPG industries. A BA/BS degree in a relevant field is required, along with excellent communication and project management skills.