Shiva Kumar Balakrishnan

Hello! I’m excited to connect with you on your career or startup journey. With a distinctive track record at industry giants like Google and LinkedIn (Microsoft), I bring a wealth of experience in growth, business development and partnerships across diverse sectors. Whether you're looking to scale your startup, navigate your career in big tech, or explore product and growth strategies, I'm here to help.

My career has been a fascinating journey through some of the most dynamic areas of the tech industry. At Google, I've worked in key product areas including Search, Google Play/Android Marketplace, Voice Assistant, Live Events, and Messaging. At LinkedIn, I helped launch and scale innovative products and partnership/API programs.

One of my key strengths is my ability to adapt and apply systems thinking across different contexts. This has been particularly valuable in roles that demanded swift context switching and the management of diverse stakeholders. These roles required not just a deep understanding of the technology but also the ability to navigate complex ecosystems, and deliver results. Having led programs both within US and Internationally, I can provide a unique perspective on how to drive growth and success in fast-paced, ambiguous environments.

I understand the challenges of navigating a career in big tech or launching a startup. The landscape is ever-changing, and it can be overwhelming to stay ahead. That’s where I come in. I can provide guidance on:

Product Management: Whether you're building your first product or scaling an existing one, I can help you refine your product strategy, manage development cycles, and launch successfully.
Growth Strategies: I’ll share insights on how to drive user acquisition, retention, and engagement. Together, we can develop strategies tailored to your specific market and goals.
Big Tech Navigation: If you’re aiming to advance your career at a major tech company, I can offer advice on how to stand out, build your network, and leverage your strengths.
Partnership Management: Learn how to forge and maintain strong partnerships. I can teach you the nuances of managing relationships with top-tier partners and navigating complex organizational structures.
Innovation and Scaling: Drawing from my experience in launching and scaling products at Google and LinkedIn, I can help you develop frameworks for innovation and growth.

I’m passionate about helping others achieve their goals and believe in the power of mentorship to unlock potential. My approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs. Whether you need a sounding board for your ideas, practical advice on overcoming obstacles, or strategic insights to guide your decisions, I’m here to support you every step of the way.