Two Roles One Job The PM and PMM Dilemma

Should Product Managers and Product Marketing Managers be separate roles or one? In this episode of The Product Porch, we break down their key differences, where they overlap, and how organizations define their responsibilities.We share real-world examples—including how Airbnb structures these roles—and tackle big questions like: Who owns the buying journey? Where should PMMs report? And how does role clarity drive product success? With fun analogies and practical insights, this episode will help you collaborate more effectively and navigate this ongoing debate.[2:00] The Big QuestionShould we have two separate roles—the Product Manager and the Product Marketing Manager?[2:30] Defining the PM RoleProduct Managers connect customer values to business outcomes.[3:20] Defining the PMM RoleProduct Marketing Managers focus on awareness, messaging, and proof points.[5:00] Wearing Both HatsJoe shares his experience working with a dedicated PMM role vs. managing both the PM and PMM responsibilities himself.[8:15] How Airbnb Does ItA look at how Airbnb structures the PM and PMM roles.[9:30] Office Space MomentTodd’s I have people skills reference sparks a discussion on communication in both roles.[10:20] PMM as Execution?Are Product Marketing Managers seen as tactical executors rather than strategic partners?[11:00] The Role of PersonasRyan shares his perspective on how personas shape PM and PMM responsibilities.[12:42] Todd’s Cinnabon ConfessionA side tangent on Todd’s unexpected connection to Cinnabon.[16:00] Role AccountabilityWhy defining clear responsibilities helps delineate the PM and PMM roles.[18:30] Wizard of Oz AnalogyHow Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Lion, and the Scarecrow represent a well-balanced product team.[20:19] Splitting the RolesRyan shares his experience during a past company transformation when the PM role was split.[21:23] Reporting Structure DebateDoes it matter where the PMM role reports within an organization?[22:45] Marketing vs. Product OutcomesDo Product Marketing Managers lose sight of product outcomes when reporting to marketing?[24:00] Measuring SuccessDefining the right success metrics for both the PM role and PMM role.[26:24] Who Owns It GameRyan leads a fun round of Who Owns It—PM or PMM?[31:00] Sales Enablement OwnershipWho should train the sales team on new products?[33:00] The Buying Journey DebateTodd argues that the PMM role should own the buying journey.[36:10] GTM StrategyAre Product Marketing Managers truly empowered to lead go-to-market strategy?[38:23] Key TakeawaysClear role definition is critical for strong team collaboration and product success. Help keep the Product Porch lights on by giving at https://www.patreon.com/TheProductPorchJoin our email list and never miss an episode at theproductporch.com