Founder definitely is the GPM/Director/VP of products until there is strong PMF (revenue momentum, repeat revenue, user retention)
Is the founder however going to
- write the PRD or review it,
- iterate designs with UX or review once it is iterated,
- do Engg walkthroughs and do ensure LLD is done ask if it is done,
- Test the pre build for bugs and iterate fix them or review the final build
- Is he going to look at the early traction and outcome analytics and get insights or review the insights
My sense is the later for all the above and hence he will need PM/LPM for execution at pace with rigour
Now if the LPM can also generate non trivial insights to enable the founder then great
Would love to know if the above founder is ready to do all of the above if there are no PMs or who would be doing it?