Latest news with #ex-Microsoft
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
She flies 1,000 km every week for work: Why this AI executive calls her ten hour commute the best career move?
When most people think of long commutes , they picture a frustrating hour in traffic or a crowded train ride. But for Janet Lee, leading go-to-market strategy at a rising AI startup , the daily grind takes a dramatically different shape. Every week, she boards a 7 a.m. flight from Los Angeles to San Francisco , spending nearly five hours door-to-door each way — and does it all over again by Friday night. For her, it's not a sacrifice; it's a strategy. This unusual rhythm, which might seem overwhelming to many, has become the backbone of her professional rise — and an unorthodox recipe for long-term growth. Face-to-Face > Zoom: The Power of Proximity Speaking to CNBC Make It, Lee explained that what started as an impulsive decision turned into a game-changing career move. 'Being in the room changes everything,' she says. In a city like San Francisco, where the AI scene buzzes with innovation and off-the-record networking, proximity isn't just a perk — it's a power move. Her current role at AI startup daydream came out of one such face-to-face interaction. A conversation over SEO unexpectedly turned into a job offer, despite her having no formal background in sales. "Is it crazy if we brought you on?" a new connection asked. She didn't hesitate. The lesson: spontaneous opportunities like this don't usually knock through screens. She credits her success — including the last three jobs she's landed — to being physically present in the right spaces. 'Those doors don't open over Zoom,' she says. You Might Also Like: Nikhil Kamath's 'lifelong learning' advice is only step one: Stanford expert shares the key skills needed to survive the AI takeover Torn Between Ambition and Belonging; So She Chose Both The jet-setting life might seem glamorous, but the real story is more nuanced. In San Francisco, she leads the company's go-to-market efforts — a high-pressure role that constantly challenges her. But Los Angeles is still home — where her support system, oldest friends, and passion project are rooted. Outside of her full-time job, she runs a personal finance coaching business called Doing Well. It was born out of her own journey with financial anxiety and has since evolved into a side hustle that helps others take control of their money. Balancing these two lives — both professionally and geographically — hasn't been easy. But she wasn't ready to give up on either. 'I didn't want to choose between ambition and roots,' she says. Sacrificing Comfort for Career Growth Despite the long-term payoff, the early months of this lifestyle were grueling. She left a steady job, stayed in short-term rentals in unsafe neighborhoods, and picked up the tab for all her flights and accommodations — averaging $450 a week. There were tears in Ubers, lonely late-night meals at the office, and moments of real doubt. You Might Also Like: How this ex-Microsoft and Amazon techie saved 90% of his salary and retired at 39 with Rs 30 crore But she reframed the discomfort as part of the growth process. 'I started doing affirmations every morning,' she recalls. 'Discomfort wasn't a sign to quit. It was proof I was growing.' Eventually, she found her rhythm — building connections in San Francisco, settling into her leadership role, and staying emotionally tethered to her life in Los Angeles. The chaos gave way to clarity. Now, a year into this unconventional routine, the results are showing. She's grown in confidence, expanded her network, and turned a wild experiment into a sustainable lifestyle. What looked like burnout risk became momentum — simply because she kept showing up. In an era where remote work dominates and virtual meetings are the norm, her story is a reminder that sometimes, success still belongs to those who show up in person — even if it means flying five hours to do it.
Business Standard
24-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Global Cloud Leader IFI Techsolutions Limited Achieves All Six Microsoft Solution Partner Designations
PRNewswire Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 24: IFI Techsolutions Limited, a Microsoft Azure Expert MSP today announced that it has earned all six solution partner designations under the Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program--an achievement that places the company amongst the top 1% Microsoft partners globally. Joins Elite Group of Global Microsoft Cloud Experts. Microsoft accords each designation to the partners after assessing them on stringent criteria. Earning these designations validates IFI Techsolutions' end-to-end capabilities across the entire Microsoft Cloud ecosystem, including Azure, Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365. It highlights the company's commitment to continuous learning, delivering measurable customer impact, and investing in skilling its workforce to stay ahead in a dynamic cloud landscape. The Six Solution Partner designations include: * Data & AI (Azure) * Infrastructure (Azure) * Digital & App Innovation (Azure) * Business Applications * Modern Work * Security "We are honoured and excited to be recognized as a top-tier Microsoft partner," said Puneet Bajaj, CTO - IFI Techsolutions. "It's Microsoft's way of validating that we have the skills, scale, and proven impact to help customers innovate faster and smarter in a cloud-first world." This accomplishment not only strengthens IFI Techsolutions' strategic alignment with Microsoft but also enables its clients to benefit from enhanced service offerings, advanced 24x7 support and access to the latest innovations in the Microsoft Cloud space. "It's a promise to our clients that they're working with a partner recognized by Microsoft for delivering tangible value," said David Wright, Chief Revenue Officer - IFI Techsolutions. "Our team can now be a go-to-partner to deliver complex, large-scale digital transformation solutions for our clients eliminating their need to seek inputs from elsewhere." As a full-spectrum Microsoft cloud partner, IFI Techsolutions is now better positioned than ever to help clients leverage AI, secure their digital assets, and innovate faster across their business landscape. About IFI Techsolutions Limited Founded in 2016, IFI Techsolutions ( of a strong leadership team comprising of ex-Microsoft executives giving the company an edge over its competitors. IFI Techsolutions is a Microsoft Azure Expert MSP specializing in Azure cloud migrations, modern workplace transformations, application innovation and cybersecurity with presence in Australia, Canada, India, Singapore, UAE, UK and US. With over 500+ customers the company is trusted by enterprises across 40+ countries for scalable, secure and intelligent Microsoft Cloud solutions.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Amazon Bets on ZeroOne for Next-Gen Gadgets
Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) edged higher after unveiling ZeroOne, a dedicated group led by ex-Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) executive J. Allard to develop breakthrough consumer gadgets. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 2 Warning Sign with AMZN. The Seattle-based teambacked by offices in San Francisco and Sunnyvalelaunched in September 2024 and aims to revive Amazon's hardware edge after mixed results with Kindle (over 200 million devices sold), Echo smart speakers (100 million units) and the ill-fated Fire Phone that bowed out after 12 months. Allard, the architect behind Xbox and Zune, will helm product strategy and R&D to fast-track next-gen experiences. ZeroOne follows Amazon's February AI-powered Alexa reveal and reflects the company's push to diversify revenue beyond retail and AWS. Investors should care because a successful hardware reset could unlock new high-margin revenue streams and deepen user lock-in across Amazon's ecosystem. With Amazon rumored to host a fall hardware event, markets will be watching ZeroOne's first prototypes and timeline for product rollouts. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Amazon Bets on ZeroOne for Next-Gen Gadgets
Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) edged higher after unveiling ZeroOne, a dedicated group led by ex-Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) executive J. Allard to develop breakthrough consumer gadgets. Warning! GuruFocus has detected 2 Warning Sign with AMZN. The Seattle-based teambacked by offices in San Francisco and Sunnyvalelaunched in September 2024 and aims to revive Amazon's hardware edge after mixed results with Kindle (over 200 million devices sold), Echo smart speakers (100 million units) and the ill-fated Fire Phone that bowed out after 12 months. Allard, the architect behind Xbox and Zune, will helm product strategy and R&D to fast-track next-gen experiences. ZeroOne follows Amazon's February AI-powered Alexa reveal and reflects the company's push to diversify revenue beyond retail and AWS. Investors should care because a successful hardware reset could unlock new high-margin revenue streams and deepen user lock-in across Amazon's ecosystem. With Amazon rumored to host a fall hardware event, markets will be watching ZeroOne's first prototypes and timeline for product rollouts. This article first appeared on GuruFocus. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
From fitness to networking, ex-Microsoft employee shares suggestions to bounce back after a layoff
When a tech giant like Microsoft makes headlines for laying off 6,000 employees — its biggest round of job cuts in over two years — the industry pays attention. As the company doubles down on artificial intelligence and trims managerial layers, the ripple effects are being felt across teams and geographies. Amid the uncertainty, Sital Ruparelia , an ex-Microsoft techie, took to LinkedIn with candid career advice and thoughtful suggestions, striking a chord with thousands navigating similar crossroads. Sital Ruparelia has more than a decade of experience at Microsoft and firsthand experience navigating corporate upheaval. He's offering free 30-minute coaching calls to those affected, as he understands the emotional toll of losing a job overnight. 'Happy to listen, answer questions and offer a perspective,' he posted on LinkedIn, opening his calendar and his heart to those reeling from the blow. Ruparelia's message isn't just practical—it's powerfully empathetic. Here's what he suggests- Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Container Houses In Thon Cham Container House | Search Ads Search Now Undo Embrace emotional ups and downs He suggests that it's completely normal to feel like one is riding an emotional rollercoaster after a layoff. One day might feel full of hope, the next clouded with frustration or doubt. Sital calls it 'four weather seasons in a week.' He believes there's no shame in needing comfort — whether that's a duvet day, comfort food, or venting to a friend. Recognising the volatility as part of the process helps reduce guilt and sets realistic expectations for the emotional journey ahead. Reconnect with your network when you're ready He advises reaching out once one has had the time to process the layoff. According to him, the next role is more likely to come through one's network than a job board. Whether it's colleagues, mentors, friends or clients, they can offer support, advice, and even leads. There is no need to dive in immediately, but when the moment feels right, re-engaging with people who care can open unexpected doors and reduce the feeling of isolation. Share the news early and directly He urges not to let shame or hesitation delay the conversation. According to him, it is good to let close circle—friends, family, former coworkers—hear the news directly and not through whispers or LinkedIn. People often want to help, but don't know how unless one invites them in. A simple message can lead to a coffee, a call, or a new connection. Clear finances Sital Ruparelia advises getting clear on finances to reduce stress and guide smart decisions. Spending must be adjusted, and if one is considering a career shift, it is best to aim for at least six months of savings. Move your body, calm your mind He emphasised that exercise plays a crucial role not just in physical health but in maintaining mental well-being. Simple routines like daily walks, yoga, or gym sessions can boost energy and provide structure during uncertain times. Pairing physical activity with mindfulness practices such as breathing exercises or meditation, helps manage stress. These small, consistent habits act as vital tools for staying grounded and resilient through transitions. It can be a turning point He pointed out that while it may be hard to see now, a layoff can often be the turning point for something better. Many eventually discover it led them to more fulfilling roles, healthier lifestyles, and clearer personal values. The experience forces reflection and action on things we typically delay. Though challenging, this period can spark unexpected clarity, growth, and long-term transformation.
