Kong has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States and Canada, which allows us to pay employees competitively and consistently in different geographic markets. Compensation varies depending on a wide array of factors, including but not limited to specific candidate location, role, skill set and level of experience. Certain roles are eligible for additional rewards including sales incentives depending on the terms of the applicable plan and role. Benefits may vary depending on location. US based employees are typically offered access to healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan, short and long term disability benefits, basic life and AD&D insurance, among others.

Are you ready to power the World's connections?

If you don’t think you meet all of the criteria below but are still interested in the job, please apply. Nobody checks every box - we’re looking for candidates that are particularly strong in a few areas, and have some interest and capabilities in others.

Kong is looking for a Principal Product Manager to join the team that’s building the next generation of API, Event and AI Gateway data planes. This is a highly impactful role that will shape Kong’s capabilities and user experience for years to come. We’re looking for a Principal Product Manager to join the team that’s building the next generation of API, Event and AI Gateway data planes. This is a highly impactful role that will shape Kong’s capabilities and user experience for years to come.

What you’ll do:

Define and Drive Product Vision: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, design, and field teams, to establish and execute a clear vision for Kong’s next-generation data plane technology, ensuring alignment with customer needs and long-term production plans.

Lead Execution: Partner with engineering and design leaders to scope, define, and deliver capabilities for the product’s releases that bring customer value and support the promotion of Kong’s new runtimes.

Customer-Focused Planning: Develop a deep understanding of customer needs and use cases, supported by solid data and evidence. Translate this understanding into artifacts outlining target use cases, milestone plans, and timelines to guide the product roadmap.

Develop Roadmaps and Plans: Create and maintain a comprehensive external-facing roadmap and related materials that clearly communicate the product direction and milestones.

Champion Communication and Transparency: Serve as the central point of communication, keeping internal and external stakeholders informed on progress, milestones, and expectations. Build strong relationships with field teams to ensure project updates and outcomes are effectively communicated.

What you’ll bring:

7+ years of software product management experience, working with technical products and end-users.

Deep understanding of customer needs, onboarding, and product adoption.

Strong grasp of API development and management, including API design

Proficient in writing requirements, collaborating with engineers, and communicating technical concepts

Effectively engaging with stakeholders, identifying core pain points, and articulating a clear product vision.

An execution-driven mindset

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About Kong:

Kong Inc., a leading developer of API and AI connectivity technologies, is building the infrastructure that powers the agentic era. trusted by the Fortune 500 and startups alike, Kong's unified API and AI platform, Kong Konnect, enables organizations to secure, manage, accelerate, govern, and monetize the flow of intelligence across APIs and AI models. For more information, visit www.konghq.com.

Compensation Range: $192,010 - $250,000