The sweet spot is probably larger startups, with an already-established, multiple-person product management team. Small startups with limited product staff are

The sweet spot is probably larger startups, with an already-established, multiple-person product management team. Small startups with limited product staff are unlikely to take a risk on someone with no experience. Public companies, on the other hand, are often too bureaucratic to hire someone without 'credentials'. Your friend will likely have to settle for a junior role at first - I'd search for 'associate product manager' or 'assistant product manager' roles. But a product manager with a technical background is a truly a blessing, and he should be able to get promoted within the company or move to a more responsible role at another company after a year or so of experience.