Argomenti trattati
From Classroom to Corporate: Lalindra Jayatilleke’s Career
Lalindra (Lali) Jayatilleke has transitioned from solving problems in academic settings to driving innovation at Amazon, one of the largest tech corporations globally. As a senior product manager stationed at Amazon’s new Arlington HQ2, Jayatilleke plays a pivotal role in global procurement. His collaboration with various teams aims to enhance the tools that fuel Amazon’s extensive order fulfillment network.
Enhancing the Smart TV Experience
Jayatilleke’s innovative work includes significant advancements in the smart TV domain. He has been instrumental in launching Alexa’s smart home features on popular brands like Samsung and LG, as well as integrating Alexa into Fossil smartwatches. His focus is on creating products that resonate with customers, emphasizing the importance of understanding user needs in product development.
Understanding Customer Needs
Throughout his career, Jayatilleke has been dedicated to addressing customer challenges. He believes that the key to developing beloved products lies in deciphering technical requirements while keeping user needs at the forefront. “I try to understand customer pain points and how to build a lovable product by breaking down technical requirements,” he states, showcasing his commitment to user-centric design.
A Commitment to Education and Mentorship
Originally from Sri Lanka and raised in Fiji, Jayatilleke graduated magna cum laude from the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering in 2012. His dedication to giving back is evident as he serves as the chair of UDC’s Electrical and Computer Engineering Advisory Board. In this role, he advises faculty on curriculum developments and industry trends, playing a significant part in nurturing the next generation of engineers.
The Impact of UDC on Jayatilleke’s Career
Reflecting on his educational journey, Jayatilleke credits UDC with providing an environment that allowed him to explore various opportunities and grow professionally. He emphasizes that the reputation of a school does not dictate career success; instead, it is about leveraging the opportunities presented. “At my first job after graduating, my colleagues included graduates from schools such as Cornell and MIT. I realized that the name of the school you attend does not determine your career trajectory; what matters is what you do with the opportunities your school gives you,” he explains.
Active Participation in University Programs
During his time at UDC, Jayatilleke was actively involved in extracurricular activities, such as the Men’s Tennis Team and the Robotics Club. These experiences not only enriched his educational journey but also led to a valuable internship and an IEEE publication. His diverse background includes previous roles at Texas Instruments and Deloitte, showcasing his versatility in applications engineering, robotics, and product marketing.
A Vision for the Future
Jayatilleke’s journey exemplifies the power of innovation and the importance of education in the tech industry. His passion for creating solutions that enhance customer experiences continues to drive his work at Amazon. He expresses gratitude for the support and mentorship received during his time at UDC, highlighting the significance of having a robust educational foundation in a competitive field. “I enjoyed my time at UDC. Overall, it provided a place for me to be motivated and I became a better engineer,” he concludes, emphasizing the lasting impact of his alma mater on his success.