As software continues to play a larger role in business operations, many companies are finding themselves in need of product managers who can help them effectively navigate this digital landscape. However, it's not always easy to find someone with the right combination of skills and experience to fill this role.

One solution to this problem is to consider training existing employees who have relevant expertise to become product managers. 

Lets take an example! A professional with accounting qualifications may have unique skills and perspectives that could make them well-suited to this role. While some may initially see this as an unlikely match, there are many reasons why training an accountant to become a product manager could be a smart investment for companies.

First and foremost, accountants are often highly analytical and detail-oriented, which are valuable skills for a product manager. They are used to working with complex data sets and making informed decisions based on that data. These skills can be especially valuable in the digital age, where data plays an increasingly important role in decision-making.

Furthermore, accountants are often skilled at identifying and mitigating risk, which is another important aspect of product management. As product managers are responsible for identifying potential problems and finding ways to minimize their impact, having someone with a strong background in risk management could be a major asset to any company.

Of course, transitioning from accounting to product management isn't necessarily a straightforward process, which is where training and coaching comes in. By working with an experienced agile coach, an accountant can learn the skills and tools necessary to become an effective product manager. This may include learning about agile methodologies, product roadmapping, user research, and other key areas.

Ultimately, investing in the professional development of existing employees can be a smart way for companies to stay competitive and build a strong, skilled workforce. While it may seem unconventional to consider training an accountant to become a product manager, the unique skill set they bring to the table could be a major advantage in the fast-paced digital landscape. By working with an experienced coach to develop these skills, companies can create a pipeline of talented product managers who are equipped to drive innovation and growth.