TPM at Facebook
Hi all, I am currently a program manager in tech company. Invited to interview for Technical Program Manager role for Portal team (Facebook reality labs). What do TPMs do at FB? Is it very different from PM role? Does it make it easier to transfer to PM from TPM? Is the role more operational/reporting heavy? How is the team culture? TC: 160k, YOE 7. #TPM #PM #PMM #fb
Technical program managers make sure engineers are getting the work done. They help teams navigate complexities in technical design and implementation. They don't do any of the market/product strategy.
Thanks. Are you a PM or TPM at FB?
Neither, I just work with them so my perspective may not be 100% accurate I should have caveated
TPM is orthogonal to PM, at FB and other companies which have that role. PM owns a single or a family of products (duh). TPM supports horizontal programs: scalability, security, privacy, etc. It's a many-to-many relationship, depending on a given Product and a Program. Not really parallel roles, although there are exceptions. Some traits are common, but there's no direct path from one role to another, and I've never seen this happened myself. If you really want to be a PM, join as one. And why do you think getting in as a TPM is simpler?
I am not saying it’s simpler. I have opportunity to interview for one and hence doing due diligence. Its in the FRL org (Portal team)- any thoughts on them?
FRL is one of the largest TPM orgs. It's a mish mash of people, roles and skillsets. That happened due to the remnant folks we had from the Oculus acquisition. A lot of the initial TPMs were driving user testing type mundane activities. The role has started evolving into more of a strategic one, but it's a long journey. So depending on what specific role or area you are interviewing for, your day to day could look very different. The other aspect is internal mobility. Even to transfer internally between TPM orgs, you have to do a couple of interviews due to the non standardized loops for product TPMs. Leadership is working on removing this requirement, but it could be a while before getting there. And yes, follow previous advice on this thread about PM/ TPM.
Thank you so much for this. Yes you also replied to my other thread:) Is it ok if i DM you for some more internal info?
Sure
Facebook - you have serious knowledge here. Nicely written. What are you, IC 6?
Which Facebook respondent are you referring you? You replied to OP's post and not specifically to any of the other people's responses.
For me, both have been really useful. Thanks!
How did it go op?
OP - Can you update us how was your journey - I am preparing for one - it will be helpful
Yes. It’s fully different from a PM role. Yes, it’s extremely hard to transfer internally. If you’re goal is to become a PM at FB, don’t join.
Thanks for highlighting this. How is it different from PM role? Why is it challenging to transfer internally?
Because almost every mid-level TPM/PMM wants to become a PM. Not saying it’s wrong but the demand is way higher and most PM managers prefer external PM hires. Moreover, you’ll be downleveled when you internally transfer with possible salary decrease. Not worth IMO.