Meet the… product manager – TVBEurope

Muster Ngobi, product manager at LYNX Technik tells TVBEurope how the ever-evolving media industry provides a truly dynamic working environment

Talk us through an average day in your role

No one day ever seems to be the same, which is what keeps it thrilling. My mornings typically start with a strong cup of coffee and a quick team catch-up to align on daily objectives and tackle any urgent issues. I juggle between overseeing the development of our products and coordinating with various teams to ensure our projects are on track. I spend a lot of my time interacting with the engineering team, sales, and marketing teams to align our product functionalities with market needs and expectations. Every day offers a lot of hands-on problem-solving, progress reviews, and a great deal of planning and project management.

I also dedicate time to market research, which I feel is essential to understanding market trends. This helps us to prioritise our roadmap. LYNX Technik has quite the reputation for quality-built solutions and customer service, so having best practices within our product management department is crucial to staying ahead in such a fast-paced industry.

How did you get started in the media industry?

My journey into the media world began right out of college when I joined Multichoice Africa, which provides satellite broadcasting and other services in Sub-Saharan Africa. I was intrigued by the blend of media technology and creativity. The experience solidified my passion for the media industry, steering my career path toward the broadcasting sector. Working now with LYNX Technik has given me the opportunity to be at the forefront of broadcast infrastructure innovation. In my role, I have the chance to collaborate with a talented team of engineers helping to develop and deliver solutions that are solving challenges and creating new ways of working.

What training did you have before entering the industry?

My education in computer science offers me a strong foundation in technology. I also actively seek out professional development opportunities that were specific to media technologies. My hands-on experiences and continuous learning on the job affords me practical experience and has helped me build a strong foundation. Since the media industry is so fast-paced and multi-faceted, it requires one to stay updated with the latest relevant technologies and trends, so my education really never stops.

Why do you enjoy working in the industry?

The broadcast and media industry is constantly evolving, and there’s always something new to learn or innovation just around the corner. We’re also constantly connecting with a diverse set of people from all around the world, whether it’s through our partner relationships, annual global conventions, or our daily customer interactions. Working with a company like LYNX Technik offers a truly dynamic environment as it’s constantly evolving. I really enjoy solving the unique challenges that come with developing new technologies and seeing our products facilitate broadcasts that reach millions of people is profoundly satisfying. If you’re passionate about technology and innovation, this industry provides a stimulating environment to explore new ideas.

What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a role similar to yours?

My key piece of advice would be to cultivate a blend of technical knowledge, strategic, and customer-centric thinking. Understanding the technology behind your products is crucial, but the ability to empathise with and anticipate customer needs is what will set you apart. Also, be proactive about networking within the industry and connect with professionals in your field as building a strong network can open opportunities for mentorship and collaboration. I also encourage people to never stop learning as the landscape changes fast and having the flexibility and adaptability will help you embrace new challenges and technology. Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy the journey. The world of broadcasting is exciting and creative, and your passion will be your most valuable asset.