Spotlight:
Tej

Explain your role at VidMob and how it contributes to the Tripod?

I’m a Program Management Leader on the Product team. I’m in charge of researching, planning, developing, and refining our product development lifecycle processes by working with all parts of the Tripod (Engineering, Product, Design, R&I, Data Science) to gain more predictability, productivity, and maturity in how we deliver our product.

What brought you to VidMob?

The people I met during my interview process. As well as the culture, the diversity, VidMob Gives, the challenges that are presented to me, and last but not least the growth of the company. 

What’s been your career journey so far?

Though I have a master’s degree in Computer Science, I’ve always had a passion for management. I felt like pursuing management would open up opportunities to learn more about how cross-functional teams work and gain a better understanding of corporate domains.

In 2009, I started my career as an IT Analyst Intern and worked my way up. In 2017, I quit my full-time job at American Express and joined a small healthcare tech start-up as a Project Manager. At the time I started, the company only had 1 client and 16 employees, but, within a year the company grew and I started managing a team of Project Managers. I worked there for 4.5 years before I joined VidMob in September (another great decision that I’ve made :)). 

Name 3 people (living or dead) who inspire you and why?

• My Uncle: I lost him in 2020 during Covid and didn’t get a chance to see him one last time but he inspired me my whole life. He was the first person in my family that I came out to. He took it pretty well and supported me. He was career-oriented and a great attorney as well – known by a lot of people.
• My Cousin: He came to the United States in the late 80s when I was a toddler in India. His career and growth inspired me to take similar steps as him. I, too, then made the move to the States when I was young.
• My Mom: She was a single mother who raised two kids and taught us everything she could when life is tough.

What do you like most about your work?

Knowing that the processes and tools I introduce in the Tripod make an impact for better product development and delivery. 

What’s the biggest work or life challenge you were able to overcome? 

I love traveling with friends, family and also sometimes do solo trips. Racism in certain countries is real, and it’s always been a challenge when you are being treated differently because of your skin color. I learned the importance of respecting and treating everyone equally with your chin-up and a smile 🙂 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? Why? 

“The way someone treats you is a reflection of how they feel about themselves.”