How This TPM Built Her Career in Cloud Computing and DevOps for Large-Scale Systems
In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, building a career that spans diverse industries while maintaining a focus on specialized fields is no small feat. For Neha Surendranath, a Technical Program Manager specializing in cloud computing, DevOps, and large-scale systems, this journey has been marked by a series of strategic moves that reflect both depth and versatility.
Cloud computing and DevOps have become critical components in modern business operations, with global cloud infrastructure spending reaching $227 billion in 2023 and the DevOps market expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.7% from 2021 to 2028. From healthcare technology to a global professional networking platform, Neha’s work has consistently centered on enhancing software infrastructure efficiency and scalability for large enterprises. Her career path not only showcases her ability to adapt and innovate but also highlights the growing significance of cloud computing and DevOps in driving modern business operations.
Building a Foundation in Healthcare Technology
Neha began her journey in the tech industry with HealthAxis Group, a company specializing in healthcare technology solutions, including electronic health records (EHR) systems, health management tools, and data analytics platforms. HealthAxis Group’s mission centered on helping healthcare organizations improve patient outcomes and streamline operations through technology-driven solutions.
During her time there, Neha was instrumental in managing software infrastructure projects that supported large-scale healthcare operations. One notable project she worked on was the CMS-MBI notification program, designed to ensure compliance and operational efficiency for healthcare providers. Additionally, she led the implementation of a web application for the State of New York’s Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for Healthcare and Adoption program, which generated over $1 million in revenue and secured a three-year contract. Reflecting on her experience, Neha shared, “The challenge was in creating an infrastructure that could handle the scale and regulatory requirements of healthcare data management. My role was to bridge the gap between compliance needs and technological capabilities.”
Advancing Cloud-Based Solutions
Neha’s next significant step was with MHK, a company known for its integrated, cloud-based platforms designed to streamline healthcare management, from care management to regulatory compliance. MHK’s solutions are particularly recognized for their ability to provide seamless data flow and communication between different departments, all while leveraging cloud technology for scalability and efficiency.
As a Technical Project/Program Manager, Neha worked closely with CVS, advising on building application and software infrastructure to support CVS’s expansive requirements. In this role, she led the implementation of an integrated platform combining pharmacy and medical management, streamlining member healthcare journeys and improving operational efficiency using cloud computing. MHK serves 4 of the top 5 and 7 of the top 10 health plans in the country, with 40% of all 4-Star and above Medicare contracts using their solutions. “Working on the CVS account required an understanding of both the business needs and the technical intricacies of cloud infrastructure. It was about ensuring the technology could support real-time data processing and decision-making across multiple layers,” Neha explained. Her work with MHK helped bridge the gap between healthcare management needs and cloud technology’s potential to revolutionize operational efficiency.
Scaling Expertise to a Global Platform
Currently, Neha serves as a Technical Program Manager at LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network, boasting over 1 billion members across more than 200 countries and territories. LinkedIn plays a significant role in shaping economic opportunities by connecting professionals globally and providing real-time labor market insights through its Economic Graph initiative. This platform is crucial for economic policy-making and workforce development, impacting both individuals and businesses alike.
At LinkedIn, Neha’s work is focused on enhancing infrastructure efficiency and scalability, ensuring the platform’s performance and reliability for its vast user base. She has been involved in designing and deploying a centralized service registry, implementing a service mesh solution using Envoy, and introducing GraphQL subscriptions—each significantly improving system performance, reliability, and user experience. “The scale at which LinkedIn operates demands a resilient and efficient backend infrastructure,” Neha noted. “My role involves managing programs that ensure our systems are both scalable and reliable, allowing LinkedIn to serve its mission of connecting the global workforce effectively.”
Her contributions are critical to maintaining LinkedIn’s platform performance, directly influencing user satisfaction and the company’s ability to provide valuable insights for economic development and policy-making. “We’re not just focused on technical scalability but also on the broader impact of our work on economic development and workforce trends,” Neha added, underscoring the far-reaching implications of her role.
Reflecting on a Journey Through Advanced Computing
Neha’s career trajectory illustrates a seamless evolution from healthcare technology to cloud computing and DevOps for large-scale systems. Her roles at HealthAxis Group, MHK, and LinkedIn collectively demonstrate her deep expertise in managing complex software infrastructure projects that drive efficiency and innovation. Her ability to adapt to the needs of different sectors while leveraging her technical knowledge showcases the versatility and depth of her experience.
Looking ahead, Neha continues to contribute to advancing her field, focusing on the scalability and optimization of software infrastructure for large enterprises. Her work not only highlights the importance of technological adaptability but also reinforces the growing need for expertise in cloud computing and DevOps as industries continue to evolve.
