Vlad Emilian Sabau
Lead Product Manager
Stuttgart
Summary
Accomplished Lead IT Product Manager with 10+ years of experience leading diverse teams in the successful delivery of innovative software products. Demonstrated track record of guiding products from conceptualization to MVP, achieving Product Market Fit, and scaling products effectively. Proficient in crafting and realizing product visions collaboratively with cross-functional teams. Possessing extensive technical skills encompassing product development methodologies, knowledge of emerging technologies, awareness of industry trends, and expertise in Agile, Lean, and UI/UX design principles. I have demonstrated a strong business acumen with a keen grasp of market dynamics, involving the analysis of market data, conducting financial evaluations, and making informed strategic decisions. As a transformative leader, I am adept at inspiring and motivating teams, setting clear visions, and engaging in strategic thinking. Leveraging exceptional communication skills to articulate complex ideas, negotiate effectively with stakeholders, and build strong relationships across the organization.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
5
5
Certificates
4
4
Languages
Work History
Lead IT Product Manager
CARIAD SE (Volkswagen Group)
01.2022 - Current
- Led development and expansion of VW Group's API product ecosystem, resulting in 20% increase in API adoption rates
- Led development of vehicle OTA (Over the Air Update) functionalities, ensuring delivery of high-quality solutions within VW Group
- Achieved 15% improvement in update success rates, enhancing overall user experience for Volkswagen customers
- Collaborated with multiple development teams, functional safety experts, and cybersecurity specialists located in Wolfsburg, Tel Aviv, and Shanghai
- Effectively oversaw and directed 5 Product Owners and 5 Development Teams, each consisting of 10 members, within agile frameworks
- Implemented strategic measures that resulted in 30% improvement in delivery speed and 20% enhancement in delivery quality through continuous improvement initiatives.
- Implemented Agile methodologies for more efficient project management and team collaboration.
- Drove revenue growth by establishing strong relationships with key industry partners.
Senior IT Product Manager
Mercedes-Benz AG
05.2018 - 01.2022
- Led successfully the development of sales and after-sales retail systems, driving business growth and enhancing customer experiences
- Managed cross-functional teams located in Stuttgart, Bangalore, and Jaipur, fostering collaboration and delivering high-quality solutions
- Collaborated closely with business development, data analysis, operations, and rollout teams to identify opportunities for API-based products and business models, resulting in the generation of new revenue streams
- Managed multimillion € project budgets, meticulously tracking expenses and timelines
- Implemented rigorous oversight, resulting in a 10% reduction in project costs through efficient resource allocation and stringent cost control measures
- Liaised with senior stakeholders at headquarters and across 10 European markets, fostering strong partnerships and achieving project success.
- Managed full product lifecycle, from ideation through post-launch support, ensuring consistent quality control measures were in place.
International IT Senior Consultant
Mercedes-Benz Consulting
10.2015 - 05.2018
- Directed successful rollout of Mercedes-Benz Point of Sale (POS) projects, achieving seamless implementation across multiple countries, with a specific focus on Benelux
- Delivered 20% reduction in implementation time
- Managed change and communications throughout project lifecycle, ensuring stakeholders were informed and engaged in the process
- Effectively managed and coached teams of project coordinators, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment
- Collected and defined customer requirements to produce comprehensive product scopes, aligning them with project objectives.
- Evaluated client needs and expectations, establishing clear goals for each consulting engagement.
Application Manager
EWE Tel
04.2012 - 10.2015
- Managed operations and support activities for the company's ERP platform
- Communicated regularly with customers concerning data exchange and technology integration
- Facilitated the best user experience through continuous support, training classes, webinars, improvements, and communication of system changes.
Education
Master of Science - Business Administration
Michigan State University
East Lansing 05.2008 - 05.2010
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration And Management
Babes-Bolyai University
Cluj-Napoca 05.2004 - 05.2008
Skills
Product Development Methodologies
Roadmap Planning and Execution
Agile Software Development
Product Vision and Strategy
Strategic/Project Planning
Team Leadership
Stakeholder Management
Excellent attention to detail
Certification
Certified SAFe 5 Product Manager | Scaled Agile Inc
Timeline
Lead IT Product Manager
CARIAD SE (Volkswagen Group)
01.2022 - Current
Senior IT Product Manager
Mercedes-Benz AG
05.2018 - 01.2022
International IT Senior Consultant
Mercedes-Benz Consulting
10.2015 - 05.2018
Application Manager
EWE Tel
04.2012 - 10.2015
Master of Science - Business Administration
Michigan State University
05.2008 - 05.2010
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration And Management
Babes-Bolyai University
05.2004 - 05.2008