Shilpa Chidambaram
Shilpa Chidambaram is a Generative AI Product Leader at Demandbase, specializing in designing AI-first experiences with large language models (LLMs), prompts, and agent workflows. With extensive experience translating advanced AI technologies including embeddings, retrieval-augmented generation (RAG), and agent-based architectures into scalable, intuitive systems, Shilpa drives products that deliver measurable business value and bridge the gap between machine learning innovation and real-world application.
Throughout her career, Shilpa has led high-impact, cross-functional teams in product strategy, architecture design, and end-to-end execution. She has successfully launched AI-driven platforms that enhance workflow automation, recommendation systems, and data-driven decision-making. Her approach emphasizes platform thinking, outcome-focused execution, and the creation of intelligent systems that transform how organizations leverage AI at scale.
Shilpa holds an MBA from the University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business, and completed executive management training at the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore. Her professional philosophy centers on curiosity, iteration, and clarity, guiding the development of products that earn trust, address complex challenges, and continuously improve over time. Shilpa is recognized for her thought leadership in AI product design and her ability to deliver innovative solutions that empower both teams and customers.
• A/B testing
• Foundation course on AWS
• Sun Certified Java Programmer
• Understanding AWS Core Services
• University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business - MBA
• Indian Institute of Management Bangalore
• RN Shetty Institute of Technology - BE
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a relentless hunger for knowledge and an enduring passion for learning. I am driven by curiosity and the desire to continuously expand my skills, embracing challenges as opportunities to grow. This mindset allows me to adapt quickly, innovate thoughtfully, and deliver meaningful results, ensuring that every endeavor contributes to both personal and organizational success.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my current manager: communication is key to solving issues, and the most effective way to do it is through storytelling. By framing challenges and solutions as clear, compelling narratives, I can align teams, foster understanding, and drive action, ensuring that complex ideas are conveyed in a way that resonates and inspires collaboration.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to remain true to yourself, stay curious, and embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. Who you are will shape your experiences, and through the challenges and successes, you will uncover your true strengths and potential. Trust in your abilities, seek out mentors, and remember that your unique perspective is a valuable asset in any professional setting.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is fostering strong leadership and securing organizational buy-in for innovative initiatives. At the same time, there is a tremendous opportunity to bring clarity, conviction, and relevance to the rapidly evolving AI market. Navigating these dynamics requires both strategic vision and the ability to translate complex technology into meaningful, actionable outcomes for the organization.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are integrity, transparency, reliability, and authenticity. I strive to lead and collaborate in ways that reflect these principles, fostering trust, meaningful connections, and consistent results. I am married of 15 years and have a 3½-year-old son. To unwind, I enjoy spending time at coffee shops and shopping, balancing my professional commitments with quality time for family and personal interests.