During my time as a product manager intern at Dayrize, I worked on three key projects focused on environmental sustainability, aligning each initiative closely with Dayrize’s mission to enable companies to reduce their environmental impact effectively. My first project, the Customer Data Dictionary, was developed out of the need for a centralized and coherent source of data information. This tool not only mapped how various pieces of environmental data interconnect, but also provided customers with comprehensive definitions and visual diagrams. This allowed customers to easily grasp the nuances of their climate data, directly supporting our mission by enhancing data transparency and usability.

For my second project, I implemented automated looker dashboards using Google’s Looker BI platform. This streamlined the process of connecting customer data to visual analytics. These dashboards displayed critical environmental metrics, such as emissions and water usage trends, empowering customers with the real-time data needed to make informed sustainability decisions. This project was pivotal in helping customers visualize their impact and track improvement over time, reinforcing our commitment to data-driven environmental accountability.

I also spearheaded the development of a new product feature, designed to provide actionable guidance to companies on reducing emissions in their supply chains. After identifying materials that offered the best potential for impact reduction — offering the "best bang for their buck" — the feature provides the top materials for customers to change in an interactable format. This involved drafting a product requirements document, performing customer testing, assembling a team of engineers and scientists, and overseeing the deployment. The algorithm I designed prioritized changes that were both feasible and impactful, enhancing our platform's capability to recommend effective sustainability strategies. I also planned further development phases to evolve this feature, maintaining its relevance and effectiveness. Each project not only contributed directly to Dayrize’s objective of environmental responsibility, but also enhanced the platform's ability to deliver actionable insights, making sustainability more accessible for their clients.

During my internship, I actively applied a range of skills acquired from my studies. My coursework in Growth Hacking and Entrepreneurial Strategy was directly applicable to my role. These classes provided a solid foundation in product management and strategic thinking, which I utilized to oversee the development and launch of new product features. In addition, the Business and Climate Change course helped me understand the environmental factors across customers’ products. This understanding was crucial in shaping features that could make a significant environmental impact. From my Growth Hacking class, I learned user testing techniques, which I applied to refine our actionable insights feature. This involved gathering user feedback to ensure the feature was intuitive and effectively met the needs of our diverse customer base. Leadership principles taught in the LEAD core course proved instrumental in building and leading a team of professionals from various backgrounds. I leveraged these skills to foster collaboration, drive innovation, and achieve our project goals efficiently. These experiences not only reinforced the relevance of my academic learning but also enhanced my practical skills in managing complex projects within a multicultural environment.

In my role at Dayrize, I faced several key challenges: 1) Shifting Priorities: The dynamic nature of the startup meant frequently changing priorities. Adapting required flexibility in planning and execution to ensure alignment with evolving objectives; 2) Organizational Changes: Learning to adapt to organizational changes meant quickly understanding new dynamics and helping to streamline processes; and 3) Increased Responsibility: Early on, I was tasked with being the product manager for my team, a role that came with a steep learning curve. This challenge accelerated my skills in product management and leadership, enhancing my ability to contribute to our sustainability mission. These challenges not only tested my adaptability and problem-solving skills but also significantly developed my leadership capabilities, preparing me well for future roles.

My experience at the startup in Amsterdam was enriching, providing insights into the intersection of climate change, software, and retail through product management. My key takeaways include:

- Comprehensive Learning: I was involved in leading and deploying new features, experiencing firsthand their potential for environmental impact;

- Cultural Insights: Working in Europe, I learned to engage effectively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, all committed to combating climate change. This enhanced my communication skills and adaptability; and

- Professional Growth: Managing an entirely new product feature in a dynamic startup environment accelerated my skills in project management and team leadership.

This role not only deepened my understanding of technology's role in environmental sustainability but also prepared me for future challenges in diverse and global settings.