In contemporary times, the pervasive integration of embedded system applications is discernible across virtually every industrial domain. The pivotal facet of this technological landscape resides in the imperative role of embedded software development, a linchpin essential to seamless operation. Pioneering the frontier of technology, Sarika Gupta, Senior Vice President at CEREBRUMX, stands as a stalwart force in the organization's relentless pursuit of groundbreaking innovations. Her unwavering commitment is evident as she consistently spearheads and nurtures the development of novel, cutting-edge solutions, propelling the organization into new realms of technological excellence. Sarika's visionary leadership and steadfast dedication illuminate the path for the entire team, shaping a future where innovation knows no bounds.

During an exclusive interview with our team, Sarika provided valuable insights into the industry, her organization's operations, and the rapid daily growth observed within the industry.

Walk us through your academic history. What prompted your entry into the field of engineering?

I obtained my engineering graduation degree from the Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology. Subsequently, I pursued a postgraduate program through BITS Pilani, which was conducted as a long-distance course. Throughout my engineering journey, I have always been drawn to problem-solving. Engineers inherently challenge themselves to address and resolve various issues, a quality that has been a consistent aspect of my approach. When I initially entered the field, particularly in the computer science department, there was uncertainty about how the information technology sector would evolve. Despite the skepticism, I found the industry intriguing. Regardless of the engineering stream one chooses, the essence lies in being a problem solver, and this aspect has continually captivated me not merely creating things, but crafting solutions to real world problems.

Provide us with a glimpse of your time at BITS Pilani. How did this experience shape your personal and professional growth?

I completed my graduation in 1998 and commenced my postgraduate studies at BITS Pilani a bit later. Opting for a Master's in Computer Science, the program delved into higher-level concepts and offered a more intensive curriculum compared to my undergraduate education, which covered a diverse range of branches and subjects. This postgraduate experience allowed for a more in depth exploration of certain subjects, such as computer graphics, which, though covered during engineering, took on a significantly different and exciting dimension at this advanced level. The inclusion of a thesis, an element absent from my undergraduate studies, added an interesting dimension to the learning journey. Overall, my time at BITS Pilani enhanced my understanding of the profound intricacies of core computer science concepts, providing a depth of knowledge beyond what was covered in my undergraduate years. This educational experience significantly contributed to my intellectual growth and prepared me more comprehensively for the challenges ahead.

Walk us through your extensive professional trajectory, where you have accumulated 24 years of experience as a leader in both engineering and business domains.

Embarking on my professional journey in 1998 at Hughes Software Systems, a subsidiary of Hughes Network Systems, during the advent of multinational corporations in India, I started as a fresh graduate in a workforce of around 500. Progressing from a fresher to a senior manager, I maintained a commitment to proving myself and finding valuable learning opportunities in every task. Engaging in cutting-edge technologies, I contributed to the development of 2G, 3G, and unified communication systems. Transitioning to Ericsson, I served as a Senior Manager, focusing on charging and billing systems, and exploring innovative services for customer revenue enhancement. Joining Harman International is where mentorship and the right opportunities propelled me from a Senior Manager to the Business Unit Head. Overseeing multiple verticals and leading the Products & Solutions BU, I played a crucial role in launching new products for enterprises. Throughout this journey, the key to my success has been an unwavering commitment to tackling every task with enthusiasm and extracting the best from each experience.

Introduce us to CEREBRUMX and elucidate the diverse responsibilities that come with your role as one of the company's Vice Presidents.

CEREBRUMX, a product-based startup operates primarily in the United States with its engineering base in India. Specializing in automotive data, my role as one of the Vice Presidents encompasses overseeing both product engineering and product management at CEREBRUMX. My primary responsibilities involve ensuring the development and alignment of our product with market needs. Collaborating closely with the sales team, I contribute to defining the product roadmap and subsequently oversee its implementation by our team in India.

What major challenges do you face in your current role, and how do you overcome them?

As my first stint in a startup, my role as an engineering leader was crucial in developing and implementing innovative solutions, collaborating closely with cross[1]functional teams, and iterating quickly to meet the evolving needs of the business. This often includes taking ownership of projects, wearing multiple hats, and contributing to the overall growth and success of the company. I learnt that to excel in a startup engineering role, one must prioritize tasks, stay updated with industry trends, communicate openly, collaborate effectively, adapt to change, approach challenges creatively, manage time efficiently, and seek feedback for continuous improvement.

Sarika Gupta, Senior Vice President, Cerebrumx

With over 26 years of expertise as an Engineering and Business leader, Sarika Gupta has effectively overseen various verticals, including Global Delivery and Product Engineering. Her managerial roles have spanned technical delivery, personnel supervision, and budget administration.