In this episode, we sit down with Arturo Piña, founder of The Startup Agency, angel investor, and fractional product strategist, to explore what product management really looks like inside startups and how it compares to the enterprise world.
With experience on both sides, Arturo outlines the startup product manager’s role as deeply embedded and highly hands-on—often touching every part of the organization from strategy to execution.
In contrast, enterprise product managers operate within more structured systems, with formalized processes and broader cross-functional alignment. But no matter the environment, one thing holds true: product teams thrive when they’re focused on the customer, guided by metrics, and aligned around a clear vision.
Key Takeaways:
1. Startups Require Hands-On Hustle – PMs touch everything, work closely with founders, and often lead go-to-market efforts.
2. Enterprises Focus on Strategic Coordination – There’s more structure and formality, but the need for alignment remains just as critical.
3. Shared Lesson: Define Your North Star – Whether you’re scaling a startup or managing a product portfolio, clear, metrics-driven goals bring teams together.
4. Higher Access, Fewer Layers – Startups offer more direct founder access and less stakeholder red tape, giving PMs more speed—but also more responsibility.
Guest Bio:
Arturo Piña is the founder of The Startup Agency, where he provides fractional product management and strategy services to high-growth startups. He’s also an angel investor, mentor, and the President of ProductCamp Austin. With experience across both early-stage startups and enterprise organizations, Arturo brings a practical, no-nonsense approach to aligning product strategy with business growth—especially in fast-changing environments.
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Since 1993, Pragmatic Institute has provided training and professional development for product, design, and data professionals. Our
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