Head of Product

Mizzen Education, Inc., an education non-profit based out of Los Angeles, CA, partners with afterschool networks, out-of-school programs, and educators to support high-quality afterschool experiences through a comprehensive digital library of teaching and learning resources via mobile app and web-based platforms. Mizzen empowers educators to design and deliver engaging afterschool programs that spark curiosity, joy, and a love of learning for all children and youth. Through funding from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Mizzen is available at no cost to afterschool programs and individual educators.

To remain aligned and connected with the needs, opportunities, and continuous quality improvement priorities of the afterschool field, Mizzen Education has identified the need for a Head of Product to support the organization’s strategic objectives related to core product design and development.

About Mizzen Education

Mizzen by Education recently transitioned to an independent charitable organization following its status as a special education project of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.  As a result, the workplace culture will be that of a dynamic start-up organization with team members proactively establishing systems and processes to support Mizzen Education’s growth and development as a high-performing organization.

About the Position

Mizzen is in the process of shifting all product and development functions in-house as we focus on expanding our team to support our continued growth. In support of these goals, Mizzen seeks a Head of Product to lead the continued development of our cross-platform app. We are looking for an experienced product professional who is passionate about building applications that users love. You will join a dynamic and fast-paced environment and work with cross-functional teams to design, build, and roll out products that deliver on Mizzen’s vision and strategy. Experience managing the development of highly scalable, flexible, content-driven enterprise applications is strongly preferred. This position is ideally full-time, reporting to the CEO, and working in partnership with the full Mizzen team.

Responsibilities

• Gain a deep understanding of customer experience, identify and fill product gaps and generate new ideas that grow market share, improve user experience and drive growth.
• Create buy-in for the product vision both internally and with key external partners.
• Develop product positioning strategies.
• Translate product strategy into detailed requirements and prototypes.
• Scope and prioritize activities based on business and user impact.
• Work closely with our Full Stack Developer to deliver with quick time-to-market and optimal resources.
• Drive product launches, including working with internal teams to develop campaign messaging.
• Evaluate promotional plans to ensure that they are consistent with product line strategy and that the message is effectively conveyed.
• Act as a product evangelist to build awareness and understanding of Mizzen’s mission and capabilities.
• Represent Mizzen by talking to users to solicit feedback on products and services.
• Source and manage contract professionals to fill gaps of existing team resources.

Requirements and Skills

• Proven work experience in a product management role or as an associate product manager.
• Proven track record of managing all aspects of a successful product throughout its lifecycle.
• Proven ability to develop product and marketing strategies and effectively communicate recommendations to executive management.
• Thorough technical background with understanding and/or hands-on experience in software development and web technologies.
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to see projects through with minimal supervision.
• Skilled at working effectively with cross-functional teams in a geographically dispersed organization.
• User experience, wireframing, and visual design experience are a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in a mix of nonprofit, philanthropic and private sectors is preferred with evidence of product management experience and a mission-driven, social impact mindset.
• Able to work independently and with a team.

Salaries and Benefits

Salary and Benefits: The salary range for the position will be $115,000 to $130,000  depending on relevant experience and work history. Mizzen Education, Inc. offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mizzen Education’s mission statement and core values prioritize a human-centered culture of inclusion for its employees that respects individual strengths, views, and experiences. Mizzen Education, Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

How to Apply

Please submit your cover letter and resume to jobs@mizzen.org.