How to Manage Executives Without Authority (as a PM)

In this episode of The Product Handbook, we tackle one of the most challenging — and crucial — aspects of product leadership: influencing executives and senior stakeholders without formal authority.

You’ll learn:

• Why product managers are often called “mini-CEOs” — and where that analogy breaks down

• How to build trust and communicate with senior leadership effectively

• Tactics to manage up: from aligning on KPIs and organizational priorities to navigating power dynamics

• Strategies for conflict resolution, fostering psychological safety, and earning executive buy-in

• Real-world insights on data-driven prioritization, storytelling, and stakeholder alignment across functions

Whether you’re already in a senior PM role or aspiring to step up, this episode will help you lead with confidence, even when you don’t own the org chart.