Women in Tech: Breaking Barriers with Diverse Experience

We're back with another inspiring episode of our "Women in Tech" series! This time, we're spotlighting Viveka Ramakrishnan, Group Product Manager. Having been with SmartRecruiters for almost three years, Viveka shares how growing up in India shaped her ambition to break barriers, the incredible journey of shifting careers at 40, and why she believes your unique, non-traditional background is truly your biggest strength in the world of Product Management.

What sparked your interest in a technical field?

Viveka: For me, choosing a technical path was about more than just a career — it was about breaking barriers. Growing up in India, career ambition for women wasn’t always encouraged the way it is today. I was fortunate to have parents with a progressive mindset who gave me the freedom to dream differently. I was always drawn to subjects that stretched my thinking, which led me toward fields like Architecture and Engineering Management. Moving into Product later felt like a natural next step — another way to blend creativity with structured problem-solving. Every challenge along the way became an opportunity to grow, shaping the persistence and focus I carry today.

How did you get to where you are today at SmartRecruiters? Can you share a pivotal moment that jumpstarted your journey?

Viveka: My path has been anything but linear. Shifting careers at 40 and starting out as an unpaid intern in a startup wasn’t easy, but I stayed focused on my goal and kept pushing forward. That experience helped me discover my transferable skills and set the foundation for my journey in the Product world. Since then, I’ve had the chance to explore the breadth of domains and dive deep into the TA Tech ecosystem. It’s been a journey of continuous learning — and one that I’m genuinely enjoying every step of the way.

Looking back, what's one piece of advice you wish you had received when you were starting your career in this industry?

Viveka: I wish someone had told me that being a Product Manager sometimes means surviving on coffee, crying over wine, breaking hearts by saying “no,” and living through calendars that look like endless Tetris meetings… kidding! On a serious note, I wish I had known that this is a space with immense growth opportunities, and that coming from a non-traditional background is not a barrier. In fact, your unique experiences can be your biggest strength — Product Management thrives on diverse perspectives, and the skills you bring from other backgrounds help you shape better products. The hurdles feel steep at first, and Imposter Syndrome is real, but with grit, focus, and a willingness to learn, unlearn, and adapt, the path becomes far more navigable.

Could you describe a typical "day in the life" in your role? What do you find most engaging?

Viveka: No two days look the same for folks in product. Some days are packed with back-to-back syncs and sessions, while others shift suddenly with new priorities or unexpected challenges. A big part of my day is spent connecting with what feels like a million people, tying threads together so nothing slips through the cracks. What I find most engaging is connecting the dots — turning insights into decisions, big or small, that move things forward, empower teams to act with clarity, and shape a bigger strategic picture with real impact.

What role has mentorship or sponsorship played in your career journey, if any?

Viveka: I’ve never had a formal mentor, but I’ve been surrounded by what I like to call “mentors in disguise.” Family, managers, and colleagues have all, in their own ways, nudged me forward — giving me the confidence to keep going and encouraging me to take on new challenges. My first break came when a proptech startup gave me the chance to enter this space. Those small acts of belief and opportunity didn’t just shape my career — they shaped my sense of self.

How has SmartRecruiters supported your growth and career development in your technical career?

Viveka: One of the things I value most about working here is how much trust and belief my managers and peers have shown in me. I’ve been given multiple opportunities to step up, which helped me prove to myself that I was ready for more. The culture here truly fuels growth — from L&D sessions that encourage continuous learning to leaders who provide autonomy and create psychological safety so we can speak honestly and make bold decisions. Potential is recognized, and that’s what has made my journey here so rewarding.

What aspects of SmartRecruiters' culture make it a great place for women in tech to thrive?

Viveka: What I value most is being surrounded by women leaders who inspire me and give me the confidence to aim higher — it’s energising to see what’s possible. I’ve also noticed how the company genuinely supports work-life balance and flexibility, which makes it easier for women to thrive at different stages of life. Together, these aspects create an environment where women in SR don’t just participate — they feel empowered to grow, lead, and make an impact.

Beyond your technical skills, what unique strengths or perspectives do you feel you bring to your team as a woman in this field?

Viveka: I bring empathy and a balanced approach to solving challenges, often helping others see the bigger picture when things get complex. My career journey has given me a unique blend of creative and analytical thinking that helps me connect ideas and people. I focus on recognizing skills and abilities in individuals, not labels, and I truly believe that diversity — whether in gender, age, abilities, or experience — makes teams stronger, more resilient, and ultimately more successful.