Team Spotlight: Sreekant Kondapaneni
Sreekant serves as VP of Engineering at Qloo, where he leads the API team. During his tenure at Qloo, he has further honed his expertise in developing scalable APIs, building on a foundation of prior experience. His interest in crafting highly scalable software services was ignited during his time developing low-latency trading applications for an investment bank. He holds dual master’s degrees in applied mathematics and Artificial Intelligence, complemented by a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
What’s a project you’re working on that you’re excited about?
I am currently engaged in a project centered around backend systems, specifically aimed at rebuilding our API through the adoption of a vector database. This change, although operating behind the scenes, is poised to significantly elevate our product’s scalability and overall performance. While exploring different technological options, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge and developed key insights.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned in your professional life that you’re excited to bring to Qloo?
In my professional journey, I’ve learned the significance of implementing incremental changes in team processes rather than abrupt overhauls. This approach facilitates smoother transitions and an adaptable team environment. Moreover, it’s crucial to cultivate a collaborative atmosphere where everyone’s input and feedback are valued and addressed. This ensures that changes are not just top-down directives.
Why do you think the intersection of culture and AI is crucial in the world today?
AI has the capability to sift through vast data, personalizing cultural experiences like music, book, film, and travel recommendations to align with individual tastes, thus enhancing engagement and relevance. It acts as a conduit for cultural education, broadening accessibility and understanding of diverse cultural expressions globally, and bridging cultural divides.
How would you describe the team culture at Qloo, and how do you see yourself contributing to it?
The team culture at Qloo can be described as highly collaborative and supportive, with a strong emphasis on mutual assistance. Each team member is approachable and committed to lending a hand, creating an environment where everyone feels supported and valued. By actively engaging in problem-solving, sharing insights, and being open to learning from others, I aim to reinforce the collaborative spirit that defines our team.
Outside of work, do you have any hobbies or passions that intersect with Qloo’s focus on culture and AI?
As someone with a strong passion for exploring new locales, I find that Qloo’s AI aligns perfectly with my interests. When I’m in unfamiliar cities or countries, Qloo acts as my personal guide, leading me to cultural highlights, local attractions, and undiscovered treasures that align with my unique tastes. Moreover, Qloo is adept at recommending restaurants that suit my specific culinary preferences, ensuring each dining experience is a delightful part of my travels.
Which famous person, dead or alive, would you love to see use Qloo’s platform and why?
I would love to see Leonardo da Vinci engage with Qloo’s platform. As a polymath and someone with insatiable curiosity about the world, da Vinci embodies the intersection of art, science, and culture. Da Vinci’s use of Qloo could offer a unique glimpse into how a mind like his might find connections across different domains. He could explore cultural trends, innovations, and artistic works far beyond the scope of his time, potentially inspiring new ideas and creations.
Taste Diving with Sreekant Kondapaneni
- Favorite Movie: Moneyball
- Favorite Publication: WIRED
- Favorite Fashion Label: Patagonia
- Favorite Restaurant: Marigold, New Orleans
- Favorite Travel Destination: Tasmania, Australia
- Comedy or Drama: Drama
- Flat Water or Sparkling: Sparkling