Product Manager • Mainframe Modernization

Locations in Germany: Darmstadt, Berlin, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Leipzig, Marburg, Munich, Nuremberg, Saarbrücken, Stuttgart

Software AG's customers, including large enterprises and government organizations worldwide, have developed business-critical enterprise applications based on IBM z/OS COBOL. To future-proof these applications, modernizing these systems for cost-effective operation is a key objective.

Software AG plans to launch a new product that will modernize COBOL z/OS applications leveraging Java technologies on z/OS.

Be you, join us.

We are seeking an experienced Product Manager for COBOL Mainframe Modernization to drive product strategy and market adoption.

This role requires high technical credibility, a customer-centric mindset, and a passion for thought leadership.

Essential Functions

1. Support global customers in IBM z/OS COBOL optimization and modernization projects leveraging Java technologies within a multi-stakeholder environment (e.g., presales, professional services, partners).
2. Assist customers in Proof of Concepts (PoC) to validate product capabilities and value propositions.
3. Understand complex customer issues and recommend technical solutions.
4. Gather, review, and manage customer requirements; translate them into prioritized feature backlogs.
5. Enhance demo environments to showcase product capabilities.
6. Create content and raise market awareness through channels like webinars, events, social media, blogs, and user groups, working closely with product marketing. Be a credible thought leader in the IBM Z community.
7. Enable internal stakeholders such as presales, professional services, and support teams.
8. Collaborate within a cross-functional, international team (product management, engineering, solution architects) to shape product strategy and roadmap.
9. Monitor and understand mainframe modernization market trends and the competitive landscape.

Minimum Requirements

1. Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Technology, or a related field; advanced degrees or certifications (e.g., IBM, Interskill) are a plus.
2. Extensive experience in architecting, developing, and modernizing large-scale COBOL z/OS applications.
3. Proven expertise with mainframe databases (Db2, VSAM, IMS, Adabas), transaction monitors (CICS), batch processing (JCL, job scheduling, Sort, Files), development tools (e.g., ISPF, IBM Developer for z/OS, IBM Open Editor / VSC), COBOL debugging, and source code management on z/OS.
4. Experience with z/OS middleware (MQ, CTG, z/OS Connect) and IMS transaction monitor and database is advantageous.
5. Several years of experience developing full-stack Java enterprise applications on IBM z/OS, focusing on databases, performance, test automation, and troubleshooting.
6. Understanding of IBM mainframe software billing and licensing models.
7. Ability to thrive in a highly agile environment.
8. Excellent communication and presentation skills in English, capable of conveying technical concepts to diverse audiences.
9. Customer-focused approach with proven collaboration skills.
10. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills for complex tasks.
11. Self-motivated with a results-driven attitude.
12. Experience in stakeholder enabling and mentoring.
13. Willingness to travel internationally up to 20%.

What’s in it for you?

1. Competitive total compensation and comprehensive benefits.
2. Flexible work arrangements with a hybrid model allowing up to 60% remote work and up to 10 days abroad annually.
3. Opportunity to upgrade your home office with a one-time hybrid work payment.
4. Access to Employee Assistance Programs for support.