Vice President, Product Strategy

SCHEDULE: Full-time, exempt. Must be available to work the hours necessary to meet business and position requirements.

BENEFITS: Our employees are our most valuable assets, so we invest in them with a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. Our philosophy of taking care of the customer extends to taking care of our employees so that they, in turn, can take good care of themselves and their families. Join Hills Bank and let us surprise you with even more perks!

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Strategic Product Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive product strategy that supports the Bank's strategic plan, growth objectives, and client experience goals.
• Establish and maintain a product roadmap for consumer, business, and treasury management products and services.
• Partner with executive leadership to identify emerging opportunities, competitive threats, and market trends impacting the Bank.
• Evaluate and prioritize strategic product investments that support revenue growth, client acquisition, client retention, and operational efficiency.

Product Portfolio Management

• Oversee the lifecycle management of banking products, including development, enhancement, pricing, positioning, and retirement.
• Monitor product performance, utilization, profitability, market penetration, and client adoption metrics.
• Recommend product enhancements and new solutions based on client feedback, industry trends, and business line needs.
• Ensure product offerings remain competitive within the Bank's markets and target client segments.

Digital Banking & Innovation

• Lead strategic planning for digital banking capabilities and client-facing technology solutions.
• Identify opportunities to improve the client experience through digital tools, automation, self-service capabilities, and process improvements.
• Evaluate fintech partnerships, vendor solutions, and emerging technologies that support product innovation and growth.
• Collaborate with Information Technology and Operations teams to implement strategic product initiatives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Serve as the primary liaison between business lines and support functions regarding product strategy and development.
• Partner with Retail Banking, Commercial Banking, Treasury Management, Marketing, Operations, Finance, Compliance, and Risk Management leaders to ensure successful product implementation and adoption.
• Support sales and relationship management teams by providing product expertise, market insights, and strategic guidance.
• Facilitate organizational alignment on product priorities and strategic initiatives.

Risk, Compliance & Governance

• Ensure all products and services comply with applicable banking regulations, internal policies, and risk management standards.
• Participate in product governance processes, including risk assessments, product reviews, and strategic evaluations.
• Monitor regulatory developments and recommend changes to product offerings as necessary.
• Balance innovation and growth objectives with sound risk management practices.

EDUCATION AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree or working towards degree required; preferred in business, marketing, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in product strategy, management, or financial services leadership.
• Demonstrated success managing banking products, strategic initiatives, and cross-functional projects.
• Strong understanding of deposit products, treasury management services, digital banking platforms, payments, and banking regulations.
• Proven ability to influence strategic decisions and drive measurable business results within a financial institution.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER/VETERANS/DISABILITY