Tauber Institute alumni bring their operations expertise to leadership roles in a wide variety of fields, all over the globe. Read about what some of our alumni are doing today, and learn about the impact their Tauber experience has had on their career paths.
EGL (BSE-IOE/MSE-IOE) ‘07
Manager, Americas, Global Solutions
Tauber alumna Shilpa Maniar (EGL BSE/MSE-IOE '07) manages Google America’s team for gTech Global Solutions, focusing on complex problem solving and streamlining workflows and operations across the globe.
Q: What drew you to the University of Michigan?
I started writing my response to this question with a cliche beginning about how I always loved the Wolverines and then stopped to reflect on what the drivers really were. I had applied early to Cornell, and unfortunately or fortunately I received an encouraging transfer after 1 year if I maintained a certain GPA. I planned to attend the University of Michigan for a year, make that GPA mark (which I did), and then transfer to Cornell. When I went for my first college tour visit with my sister, I was amazed by the campus, the rich diversity of individuals, and the flexibility in courses in so many disciplines with some of the best professors in the world. When I learned about the Engineering Global Leadership Honors Program, Tauber Institute, the culture core component, and accessibility to not only the College of Engineering but also the Ross School of Business, I knew I had to stay! My friendships, my passion for the Wolverines, and the foundation the University of Michigan set for me is a large component of what drives me to this day.
Q: When you think back on your time with the Tauber Program, what stands out?
One of my most memorable experiences from college is being a part of the Tauber community. It challenged me at a young age to work with a truly cross-functional team (all with different expertise and backgrounds) towards a common goal. My team project with Lockheed Martin was an enlightening experience where I was able to work on a project that felt more than the typical internship where we were able to make a meaningful impact on the Space Systems supply chain. I made some great friends through the experience.
Q: What’s the most important thing to remember in business?
There are so many lessons I’ve learned over the years but sharing a few that come top of mind.
Q. What are you doing now?
I work at Google where I manage the America’s team for gTech Global Solutions. My team provides technical expertise to onboard, integrate, and manage partners for Google’s Ads Products including AdSense, Google Ad Manager, Ad Exchange (Real-Time Bidding solution) across devices and platforms. We focus on complex problem solving and streamlining workflows and operations across the globe. We collaborate with xfn stakeholders to resolve product bugs and influence product roadmap through feature requests. We align ourselves closely with sales to provide the best user experience and keep ourselves accountable through tight metrics and targets for each partner interaction. Lastly, we have fun - It is Google!
When I’m not at google, I pursue my side hustle of TV reporting and covering stories from Tech, Founder Journeys, to Bollywood and Hollywood celebrities.
Q: What advice would you give to current or future Tauber students?
My advice for Tauber Students would be to always stay curious, stay hungry, and never stop learning. For current students, take advantage of all the resources around you and the amazing network of students, alumni, professors, and more! Learn as much as you can, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to challenge the standard. For future students, I can honestly say that this program will open a wealth of opportunity. My experience with Tauber stretched me to think outside my comfort zone and I will never forget the lessons I learned from IPD (Integrated Product Design) - one of the most valued courses I’ve taken!