Featured Alumni - Gavin Midlam

March 9, 2022


Gavin Midlam, MS '18

Head of Product, Amberjack


You've had a chance to work at a large company in Adidas and now in a smaller startup company with Amberjack. What do you prefer and why?
Both. Both have provided huge learning experiences in their own right. Getting to experience the industry on polar opposite ends of the spectrum has equipped me in ways I wouldn't be otherwise. That said, the access to people and resources that comes along with a big brand (from my experience) is unparalleled and really opens up the scope of what's possible. However, I love the autonomy and ownership that comes along with the startup world - being able to dodge the bureaucratic bull shit when making day-to-day decisions allows you to focus entirely on the product and the people it's going to serve, without the politics.

You've had experience in both Product Design and Product Management. How did your experience as a Designer impact your approach to Product Management?
Empathy. Having played on both sides of the product creation process, it brings a great perspective of when healthy compromise is appropriate. Being able to make decisions through the lens of multiple functions leads to a more "bullet proof" product output. This starts with trust within the triad - being able to empathize, align and respect one another comes a lot easier when you've worn their hat before.

You have an entrepreneurial background - how do you bring that into your current role?
Mentality. Building something great without the safety net of a big brand budget takes creative chops... and calculated decision making. It has forced me to think critically in ways I don't think I would have known how to otherwise.

What's happening in the industry right now that gets you excited?
The supply chain crisis. When there's an obvious problem, there's room for questioning - and ultimately innovation. I'm really fascinated how sourcing and manufacturing will adapt to a new global landscape impacted by international trade relations, COVID fallout and the well being of our planet and its resources.

You have 10 words to describe what values drive you in your career. Go.
Product is a vehicle to tell a bigger story.