Job Description: Product Manager - COBOL Mainframe Modernization
Software AG is seeking an experienced Product Manager for COBOL Mainframe Modernization, focusing on developing a new product that leverages Java technologies on z/OS to modernize COBOL z/OS applications. This role requires driving product strategy, market adoption, and customer engagement.
Essential Functions include:
- Supporting global customers in IBM z/OS COBOL optimization and modernization projects using Java technologies, collaborating with presales, professional services, and partners.
- Assisting customers with Proof of Concepts (PoC) to demonstrate product capabilities and value.
- Understanding complex customer issues and recommending technical solutions.
- Gathering and prioritizing customer requirements into feature backlogs.
- Enhancing demo environments to showcase product features.
- Creating content and raising market awareness via webinars, events, social media, blogs, and user groups, working closely with product marketing.
- Enabling internal stakeholders such as presales, professional services, and support teams.
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to define product strategy and roadmap.
- Monitoring mainframe modernization market trends and the competitive landscape.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT, or related field; advanced degrees or certifications (e.g., IBM, Interskill) are a plus.
- Extensive experience in architecting, developing, and modernizing large-scale COBOL z/OS applications.
- Proven expertise with mainframe databases (Db2, VSAM, IMS, Adabas), transaction monitors (CICS), batch processing tools (JCL, job scheduling), and development tools (e.g., ISPF, IBM Developer for z/OS).
- Experience with z/OS middleware (MQ, CTG, z/OS Connect) and IMS is advantageous.
- Several years of full-stack Java enterprise application development on IBM z/OS, with focus on databases, performance, and troubleshooting.
- Knowledge of IBM mainframe software billing and licensing models.
- Ability to work effectively in a highly agile environment.
- Excellent communication skills in English, capable of conveying technical concepts to diverse stakeholders.
- Customer-centric approach with proven collaboration skills.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Self-motivated with a results-driven attitude and experience mentoring stakeholders.
- Willingness to travel internationally up to 20% as needed.
What’s in it for you?
- Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.
- Flexible work arrangements, including remote work up to 60% and up to 10 days abroad annually.
- Support for setting up a productive home office.
- Access to Employee Assistance Programs for personal support.