Director, Product Marketing

📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: Director, Product Marketing 🔹 Company: D-Wave 🔹 Location: Remote (United States) 🔹 Job Type: Salaried FT 🔹 Category: Marketing 🔹 Date Posted: May 21, 2025 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: - Developing product strategy and positioning based on customer feedback and market insights. - Collaborating with cross-functional teams to create compelling messaging and support product launches. - Working directly with senior leadership, product teams, partners, sales, marketing teams, and industry analysts. - Leveraging a deep understanding of consumer behavior sciences and marketing strategies. - Driving analyst relations, managing proactive and reactive engagements with analysts, and influencing industry analyst coverage of the category and the company. ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with various stakeholders. A successful candidate will be comfortable navigating complex environments and driving consensus among diverse teams. 📋 Key Responsibilities ✅ Develop product and solution messaging and positioning, leveraging a deep understanding of customers, decision-makers, and purchasing dynamics. ✅ Build and share thought-provoking content at events, conferences, webinars, and sales meetings. ✅ Thoroughly understand market segments, their needs, buyer personas, and their journeys. ✅ Collaborate with marketing, product, and customer success teams to define and develop compelling messaging, effective value propositions, use cases, and overall content targeting customers, decision-makers, and other audiences such as industry analysts, reporters, and partners. ✅ Work with the public relations team on key announcements and press releases. ✅ Drive analyst relations, developing meaningful relationships with key industry professionals, managing proactive and reactive engagements with analysts, staying on top of published research, and strategically influencing industry analyst coverage of the category and the company. ✅ Develop and maintain a deep understanding of market dynamics, competitive landscape, and go-to-market strategies in target markets and target audiences. ✅ Help plan and drive product launches with the extended GTM ecosystem. ✅ Work closely with the product management team to understand and influence the development of our quantum computing solutions. ✅ Support partner enablement and co-marketing programs related to new solutions in collaboration with sales teams. ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience in product marketing within the technology industry, with a strong focus on quantum computing or a related field. They should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously. 🎯 Required Qualifications Education: - Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field. A Master's degree would be an asset. Experience: - 10+ years of product marketing experience, with at least 5 years in the technology industry. Required Skills: - Proven track record in product marketing, with experience in messaging development, content creation, and market analysis. - Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills. - Excellent communication and presentation skills. - Ability to work effectively with senior leadership, cross-functional teams, and external partners. - Experience with quantum computing or a related field is a plus. Preferred Skills: - Familiarity with marketing automation tools (e.g., Marketo, HubSpot). - Experience with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot CRM). - Knowledge of SQL or other data analysis tools. ASSUMPTION: Candidates should have a solid understanding of market research methods, data analysis, and customer segmentation. They should be comfortable working with data and using it to inform marketing strategies. 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $135,000 - $202,000 USD per year. The final offer is determined by the candidate's proficiencies within this level. Benefits: - Competitive Pay - Company Ownership - Unlimited Vacation - Benefits Day One - 12 Weeks Parental Leave - Flexible Work Arrangements - Telehealth and Telemental Health - Employee Networking and Events - Inclusive Culture - Learning and Development Opportunities Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week) ASSUMPTION: D-Wave offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and work-life balance of its employees. The company is committed to providing competitive compensation and a positive work environment. 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context Industry: D-Wave operates in the rapidly growing field of quantum computing, which has significant potential for transforming various industries, including finance, logistics, and pharmaceuticals. Company Size: As a mid-sized company with around 278 employees, D-Wave offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment. This size allows for a more agile decision-making process and closer collaboration among teams. Founded: D-Wave was founded in 1999 and has since grown to become a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. Company Description: D-Wave is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. They are the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers and the only company building both annealing and gate-model quantum computers. Their mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum, today. Company Specialties: D-Wave specializes in quantum computing, artificial intelligence, optimization, and research. Company Website: D-Wave Quantum ASSUMPTION: D-Wave's focus on innovation and its commitment to staying at the forefront of quantum computing make it an attractive place for professionals seeking to work on cutting-edge technology and make a significant impact on the industry. 📊 Role Analysis Career Level: This role is at the senior management level, reporting directly to the Chief Marketing Officer or another senior executive. Reporting Structure: The Director, Product Marketing will likely oversee a team of product marketing managers and/or specialists, depending on the organization's structure. Work Arrangement: This role is remote-friendly, with a flexible work arrangement that allows for a healthy work-life balance. Growth Opportunities: As D-Wave continues to expand its offerings and enter new markets, there will be ample opportunities for the Director, Product Marketing to grow within the organization. This role also presents opportunities to work closely with the product management team, potentially leading to a broader impact on the company's product strategy. ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and be able to adapt to changes in the company's growth and product portfolio. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: D-Wave has offices in Palo Alto, California, and Burnaby, British Columbia, but this role can be performed remotely from anywhere in the United States. Office Location(s): 2650 E Bayshore Rd, Palo Alto, California 94303, US; 3033 Beta Ave, Burnaby, British Columbia V5G 4K4, CA Geographic Context: Palo Alto is located in the heart of Silicon Valley, offering easy access to the region's thriving tech industry and networking opportunities. Burnaby is a suburb of Vancouver, British Columbia, with a lower cost of living compared to the city center. Work Schedule: The work schedule is flexible, with core hours between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time. However, the role may require occasional work outside of these hours to accommodate meetings with international teams or partners. ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a remote or hybrid work environment and be able to manage their time effectively to balance work and personal responsibilities. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: 1. Online application review 2. Phone or video screen with the hiring manager 3. In-depth behavioral and technical interviews with cross-functional teams 4. Final interview with senior leadership 5. Reference checks and background verification Key Assessment Areas: - Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills - Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams - Understanding of quantum computing and its applications - Familiarity with marketing automation tools and CRM systems - Strong communication and presentation skills Application Tips: - Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role. - Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and adaptability. - Familiarize yourself with D-Wave's products, services, and industry position to demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the company. ATS Keywords: Product Marketing, Market Analysis, Messaging Development, Content Creation, Collaboration, Analyst Relations, Product Launches, Quantum Computing, Customer Insights, Problem Solving, Project Management, Strategic Thinking, Communication, Leadership, Creativity, Analytical Skills ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be proactive, results-driven, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. They should be comfortable working with data and using it to inform marketing strategies. 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - Marketing automation tools: Marketo, HubSpot - CRM systems: Salesforce, HubSpot CRM - Data analysis tools: SQL, Tableau, Power BI - Project management tools: Asana, Jira, Trello - Collaboration tools: Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience with relevant marketing automation tools, CRM systems, and data analysis tools. They should be comfortable learning and adapting to new technologies as needed. 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations Company Values: - We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. - We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other. - We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions and take responsibility so that we can act and support each other. - As leaders, we motivate and engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams and creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling and coaching. Work Style: - D-Wave values a dynamic, fast-paced work environment with a strong focus on collaboration and innovation. - The company encourages a growth mindset, continuous learning, and a willingness to take on new challenges. - D-Wave fosters a culture of open communication, transparency, and inclusivity. Self-Assessment Questions: - How do you align with D-Wave's value of seeing possibilities where others see problems or routines, and how have you demonstrated this in your previous roles? - How do you approach working with diverse teams and incorporating different perspectives into your marketing strategies? - How do you balance your own work style with the need to support and empower your team members to grow and take on new challenges? ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be a strong cultural fit with D-Wave's values and work style. They should be comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and be able to adapt to changes in the company's growth and product portfolio. ⚠️ Potential Challenges - Working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with frequent changes in priorities and projects. - Managing multiple projects simultaneously, often with tight deadlines. - Balancing the need for strategic, long-term planning with the requirement for immediate, tactical execution. - Collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams, including product, sales, and engineering teams, each with their own priorities and goals. - Navigating a complex, rapidly evolving industry with frequent shifts in market dynamics and competitive landscape. ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a challenging, dynamic environment and be able to adapt to changes in the company's growth and product portfolio. They should be a strong problem solver with excellent communication and collaboration skills. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison - Product Marketing Manager, Technology: This role focuses more on tactical execution and may have less strategic influence on product positioning and messaging. It may also involve more day-to-day management of marketing campaigns and less collaboration with senior leadership and external partners. - Product Marketing Manager, Consumer Goods: This role may involve more focus on consumer behavior and market trends, with less emphasis on technical aspects and industry-specific insights. It may also require more experience in consumer-facing marketing and branding. - Product Marketing Manager, Enterprise Software: This role may involve more focus on enterprise-level marketing strategies, with less emphasis on consumer-facing marketing and branding. It may also require more experience in enterprise software marketing and sales enablement. ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience in product marketing within the technology industry, with a strong focus on quantum computing or a related field. They should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and be able to adapt to changes in the company's growth and product portfolio. 📝 Sample Projects - Developing a comprehensive go-to-market strategy for a new quantum computing product, including messaging, positioning, and pricing. - Creating a thought leadership content series to establish D-Wave's expertise in the quantum computing industry and drive brand awareness. - Conducting market research to identify new market segments and opportunities for D-Wave's quantum computing solutions. - Collaborating with the product management team to define and prioritize product features based on customer feedback and market demand. - Developing and executing a product launch plan, including event planning, media relations, and customer communications. ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience in product marketing within the technology industry, with a strong focus on quantum computing or a related field. They should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and be able to adapt to changes in the company's growth and product portfolio. ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview - How does D-Wave's approach to product marketing differ from other companies in the industry, and how does this role contribute to that unique approach? - How does D-Wave measure the success of its product marketing efforts, and how would you ensure that your strategies align with these metrics? - How do you approach working with cross-functional teams, and how have you ensured effective collaboration in previous roles? - How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and market dynamics, and how do you incorporate this knowledge into your marketing strategies? - How do you balance the need for strategic, long-term planning with the requirement for immediate, tactical execution, and how have you demonstrated this in previous roles? ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and be able to adapt to changes in the company's growth and product portfolio. They should be a strong problem solver with excellent communication and collaboration skills. 📌 Next Steps for Applicants To apply for this position: - Submit your application through this link. - Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role. - Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and adaptability. - Familiarize yourself with D-Wave's products, services, and industry position to demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the company. - Follow up with the hiring manager or recruiter within one week of submitting your application to express your continued interest in the role. ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.