At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product initiatives and drive strategy from concept to launch.
- Company: Fast-growing fintech transforming SME finance in South-East Asia.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, Macbooks, health insurance, training budget, and remote work flexibility.
- Other info: Opportunity for travel and collaboration with teams in Manila.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial services for underserved SMEs in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 4-8 years in analytical roles, strong problem-solving skills, and fintech experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
First Circle is one of the fastest growing fintechs in South‑East Asia, providing financial services to under‑served SMEs. We have already transformed access to credit for thousands of small businesses in the Philippines, and we are now building a full‑stack Neobank that will include multi‑currency bank accounts, payments, FX, corporate credit cards, payroll. Last year we raised Series B, led by the IFC (the World Bank’s investment arm), and we are now hiring an experienced product manager to play a pivotal part in the next chapter.
Building product in developing markets like the Philippines presents unique challenges, given the state of digital infrastructure. We are building virtually everything in‑house, which is not easy, but it’s a lot of fun. We have a track record of solving seemingly impossible problems that defeated many other start‑ups, and the opportunity ahead remains enormous.
Role
We are looking for a Product Manager to build world‑class products that will shape the future of First Circle. Reporting to the CEO, you will work at the highest level to design and execute solutions that drive business growth and customer success. This is an opportunity to work in a fast‑moving, ambitious environment where your work will have a direct and measurable impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and execution of critical product initiatives, driving strategy from concept to launch
- Own key product metrics and ensure that every decision contributes to meaningful business outcomes
- Work cross‑functionally with engineering, design, data, and business teams to align on priorities and execute efficiently
- Leverage data and deep analytical thinking to identify opportunities, solve complex problems, and drive continuous improvement
- Take a highly outcome‑oriented approach, ensuring efforts translate into real impact for customers and the business
- Operate with extreme ownership—you are responsible for delivering results, not just managing a backlog
- Work in a high‑performance culture that demands top‑notch work effort, strategic thinking, and relentless execution
- Travel to Manila periodically to work closely with teams on the ground
Requirements
- 4–8 years of experience in a highly analytical, problem‑solving role (e.g., Product Management, Consulting, Strategy)
- Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills—able to break down complex problems and build structured solutions
- Worked on fintech‑related products and can demonstrate successful outcomes
- Highly outcome‑driven – focused on delivering impact, not just managing processes
- Extreme ownership mindset – takes responsibility for success and doesn’t wait for direction
- Proven ability to work in fast‑paced, high‑performance environments
Benefits
- Work at a fast‑growing fintech on meaningful products that reshape SME finance in Southeast Asia
- We don’t have a fixed budget for the role. When we find the right person, we will pay them competitively vs their market rate
- Macbooks, health insurance, training budget, and more!
- Flexibility to work remotely with opportunities for travel
Product Manager employer: First Circle
First Circle is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets impact. As a fast-growing fintech in South-East Asia, we empower our employees with competitive compensation, flexible remote work options, and opportunities for professional growth while tackling meaningful challenges in SME finance. Join us to be part of a high-performance culture that values strategic thinking and delivers real results for our customers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fintech space, especially those who work at First Circle or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience in product management, especially in fintech. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your ability to tackle complex problems.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to First Circle through our website and express your interest in the Product Manager role. A personal touch can make a big difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow fintech news and developments, especially in Southeast Asia. This knowledge will not only prepare you for interviews but also show your passion for the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Product Manager role. Highlight your experience in fintech and any analytical roles you've had. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at First Circle!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about building products for SMEs in South-East Asia. Share specific examples of how you've tackled complex problems in the past, as we love a good story!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical thinking, don’t shy away from showcasing your problem-solving abilities. Use metrics and outcomes from your previous roles to demonstrate your impact—numbers speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to shape the future of First Circle!
How to prepare for a job interview at First Circle
✨Know Your Product Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand First Circle's products and services. Familiarise yourself with their current offerings, especially in fintech, and think about how you can contribute to their growth. This will show your genuine interest and help you discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Given the analytical nature of the role, expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've tackled complex challenges, particularly in fast-paced environments. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Showcase Your Ownership Mindset
First Circle values extreme ownership, so be ready to demonstrate how you've taken responsibility for projects in the past. Share specific instances where you drove initiatives from concept to launch, highlighting the impact of your decisions on business outcomes. This will resonate well with their culture.
✨Engage with Cross-Functional Collaboration
As a Product Manager, you'll need to work closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with engineering, design, and data teams in previous roles. Highlight any strategies you've used to align priorities and ensure efficient execution, as this is crucial for success at First Circle.
