Meet Praba Sundaram!

Praba was one of the very early joiners in Upland India and was instrumental in setting up and hiring some of our early teams. She has shown great grit and determination as these teams scaled up and her role expanded to span multiple teams and today, these teams contribute very deeply to our portfolio.?

Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Upland?

A: I am Praba Sundaram, and I’m currently a Software Engineering Manager at Upland. I manage a team of talented software engineers, overseeing the development and delivery of different initiatives. My job involves not only technical oversight but also ensuring that our team is aligned with the company’s strategic goals. I work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality software on time and ensure that we add value to our customers day in and out.

Q: What inspired you to join our team?

A: There are many, but the most important thing was the culture. The opportunity to work in an inclusive environment and focus on professional development really stood out to me.

Q: What are some of your key responsibilities in your current role?

A: As a Software Engineering Manager at Upland, my key responsibilities span both technical leadership and team management. I lead a team of engineers, providing mentorship, guidance, and support to help them develop their skills and achieve their professional goals.

I collaborate closely with product managers, designers, and other departments to align our engineering efforts with business priorities and customer needs. I’m also involved in strategic planning and roadmap management, working with leadership to define long-term goals.

Q: How has your career progressed since joining Upland? What have been your key learnings?

A: My role at Upland was both exciting and challenging. Upland provided me with the opportunity to thrive in my position, helping me feel motivated, valued, and empowered, which are crucial elements for long-term success.

My key learnings are effective leadership, building a high-performing team, project management, managing a diverse team, and fostering a growth-oriented environment.

Q: How would you describe the company culture at Upland?

A: Upland's culture is both inclusive and transparent, emphasizing learning and development. This creates a dynamic and supportive environment where employees contribute to the product's success while growing alongside the company.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who asks you about joining Upland or who has joined recently?

A: Joining Upland offers an exciting opportunity to work with a global team and diverse set of talented people. For someone who has already joined, Be a self-starter, embrace innovation, stay collaborative, take ownership of your work, and maintain a user-focused mindset. Stay agile, take advantage of growth opportunities, and always align with the company’s vision. Don’t forget to sharpen the saw!

Q: Any additional comments you want to add?

A: I am thoroughly enjoying my time with Upland. The company has provided me with opportunities for both personal and professional growth. I am pleased to say that I maintain an excellent work-life balance, thanks to Upland's remote model. I take pride in being part of the company and contributing every day to the success of Upland's products.