Q&A with Kaarthik Gunaratha, Product Specialist

Kaarthik is a Product Specialist based in Singapore and supports the Commercial team in APAC. Prior to this he spent 2.5 years working at an oil and gas trading company. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Singapore Management University. Fun fact: 'I’m a caffeine addict. I drink about 4-5 cups of coffee a day.' We wanted to find out what inspired Kaarthik to join Vortexa, what some of his biggest milestones have been to date and what day-to-day life really looks like for a Product Specialist…

What inspired you to join Vortexa?

Coming from an oil and gas trading background, I was always curious about the fast- paced tech industry and I chanced on Vortexa which provided an opportunity for me to both utilise my oil and gas background and work in a fast-paced tech environment.

What would you say is the most interesting aspect of your role?

Engaging with prospects and clients. We interact with traders, analysts, shipowners, charterers, government agencies, journalists, hedge funds etc. I learn so much about their background and their day to day functions and how we can be of service to them.

What have been some significant milestone moments for you at Vortexa?

Giving my first demo to a meeting room filled with people.

What does day-to-day life look like for you as a Product Specialist?

Wake up, grab a coffee and check slack messages. Run through my tasks for the day. Meetings with prospects/clients. Customer support queries.

What key qualities make a Product Specialist successful?

A fine balance of being curious, creative and engaging. You are always constantly learning about the product as it keeps progressing as well as how it can add value to clients, as every client is different.