Day in the life of
Product Owner – Floris Wardenier
We have multiple products which we sell, and one of them is our AIRID Polymer Dryer; during my graduation internship, I took responsibility for the dryer itself. While each department takes responsibility for its part when it comes to the dryer (R&D develops, Production assembles and sends, Sales sell, etc.), nobody knows the full scope of the dryer and its aspects.
What does your typical day look like?
My days are pretty chaotic because as we’re still trying to define my job (this is the first time our company has it), I am also available for the Head of Production to help him out with whatever isn’t working or what he doesn’t have time for.
Every day is different because it involves me being active on all parts and aspects of the product, making sure that each department is on board with the latest updates, or knowing what needs to be done on their part for the success of the machine. Because I’m in contact with all the different departments, I’m able to let them know what factors need to be taken into account. For example, this could be letting the R&D team know that even though they may be creating parts that work, it may not be possible when it goes to the next step and needs to be assembled.
It’s all problem solving and making sure that our list of priorities is constantly updated, so we know what to focus on at any given moment. So, if the marketing team has a task with a high priority that needs to be done by the R&D team, I’ll pass the information along and make sure that R&D completes the task.
What are your key responsibilities?
If Service comes to me with a problem a client is facing, I’ll take the first look at it and see whether it’s a design or production fault or a third option. I’ll then go to the responsible department and discuss solutions with them.
Overall, I have to make sure production keeps running. Because, as soon as production stands still, it’s a problem. It’s essential to be ahead of that. I realized during my graduation that if something goes wrong in production, it’s the top priority immediately, so R&D will come and help us fix the problem.
Pros
It’s exciting going to the different departments, learning from them, and seeing the work that they’re doing. I don’t want to be seated behind my desk all day, so being in contact with people and working as a team is great. We’re all working towards the same goal together, so it’s essential we gather everyone’s ideas and priorities to accomplish the goal with the best balance for each department’s interests.
Cons
It’s hectic and chaotic. The position itself isn’t as structured as others since it’s a new position for myself and the company. No one can lead me, but they can advise and brainstorm with me, and I like that because I enjoy discussing and figuring out solutions with others.
