About me
About me
Hello, I'm Abhinandan Shekar, a product, engineering & AI enthusiast with 10 years of expertise. I thrive at the intersection of AI, product, UX and engineering, driving digital transformation that makes a real impact. With a strong foundation in cross-functional leadership, consultative sales, and AI-led innovation, I work to bridge business needs with cutting-edge technology, ensuring that solutions are not just built - but truly solve the right problems.
I’ve sat across the table from Nordic founders, business leaders, tech experts, helping them transform deep industry knowledge into decisive actions. I’ve worked with corporate leaders navigating the inertia of legacy systems, torn between what has always worked and what must change. I’ve collaborated with visionaries eager to harness AI - not as a buzzword, but as a force multiplier for real business impact.
I’ve worked with startups, enterprises, and global businesses, helping them navigate uncertainty, scale innovation, and leverage AI for smarter decision-making. Passionate about solving complex problems in high-variance environments, I thrive in challenges where technology meets strategy, and execution defines success.
Experience
Experience
Stockholm, Sweden
Tarento Nordics
Jan 2024 – Present
Associate Director - Product & Engineering
Driving AI, product & engineering strategy for enterprise clients, ensuring scalable, well-architected solutions that balance tech, business value, & execution feasibility.
Owning AI-driven pre-sales, enterprise strategy, and product innovation, collaborating with business and technology leaders to craft solutions that tackle real-world challenges with impact and scalability.
Guiding large-scale modernization initiatives, such as CROPS 2.0 for Cellmark, risk intelligence for Islandsbanki, and semantic intelligence for Spinbase, ensuring technology accelerates decision-making and operational excellence.
Leading multi-perspective discovery and system design, balancing user needs, business goals, and technical feasibility - whether it's optimizing enterprise workflows in case of Spinverse or rethinking inventory management for Cellmark or enabling operational excellence at the end user level (i.e., drivers) for HectorRail.
Stockholm, Sweden
Tarento Nordics
Jan 2024 – Present
Associate Director - Product & Engineering
Driving AI, product & engineering strategy for enterprise clients, ensuring scalable, well-architected solutions that balance tech, business value, & execution feasibility.
Owning AI-driven pre-sales, enterprise strategy, and product innovation, collaborating with business and technology leaders to craft solutions that tackle real-world challenges with impact and scalability.
Guiding large-scale modernization initiatives, such as CROPS 2.0 for Cellmark, risk intelligence for Islandsbanki, and semantic intelligence for Spinbase, ensuring technology accelerates decision-making and operational excellence.
Leading multi-perspective discovery and system design, balancing user needs, business goals, and technical feasibility - whether it's optimizing enterprise workflows in case of Spinverse or rethinking inventory management for Cellmark or enabling operational excellence at the end user level (i.e., drivers) for HectorRail.
Stockholm, Sweden
Tarento Nordics
Jan 2020 – Dec 2023
Lead Product Strategist
Ideated and engineered diverse product solutions across recycling order processing optimization (Cellmark), sustainable healthy retail (Paradiset), intelligent inventory management (Pandora), and entrepreneurial ecosystems & business intelligence (EpicWorld). Led system modernization, intelligent automation, API-driven integrations, and platform ideation, transforming fragmented, domain-specific challenges into cohesive, scalable, and high-impact solutions
I built an internal end-to-end language for execution of digital program i.e., LEAD-LEAP-LAUNCH, where these weren’t just steps in the digital lifecycle; they became the default operating system for how we approached discovery, execution, and release. Further established and scaled the LEAD Sprint thought-process into a Center of Excellence within NXT, transforming it from an internal framework into a structured, scalable problem-solving methodology adopted across multiple business units in Tarento and as well as in our customer ecosystems.
Orchestrated its transformation into a strategic execution engine, ensuring LEAD Sprint became the driving force behind faster decision-making, seamless business-technology alignment, and wide adoption - cutting ambiguity, compressing time-to-market, and making execution as structured as discovery.
Assembled and led elite, cross-functional teams in product, UX, and engineering, fostering a culture of rapid iteration, structured problem-solving, and customer obsession, making innovation not just an idea, but a repeatable process.
Stockholm, Sweden
Tarento Nordics
Jan 2020 – Dec 2023
Lead Product Strategist
Ideated and engineered diverse product solutions across recycling order processing optimization (Cellmark), sustainable healthy retail (Paradiset), intelligent inventory management (Pandora), and entrepreneurial ecosystems & business intelligence (EpicWorld). Led system modernization, intelligent automation, API-driven integrations, and platform ideation, transforming fragmented, domain-specific challenges into cohesive, scalable, and high-impact solutions
I built an internal end-to-end language for execution of digital program i.e., LEAD-LEAP-LAUNCH, where these weren’t just steps in the digital lifecycle; they became the default operating system for how we approached discovery, execution, and release. Further established and scaled the LEAD Sprint thought-process into a Center of Excellence within NXT, transforming it from an internal framework into a structured, scalable problem-solving methodology adopted across multiple business units in Tarento and as well as in our customer ecosystems.
Orchestrated its transformation into a strategic execution engine, ensuring LEAD Sprint became the driving force behind faster decision-making, seamless business-technology alignment, and wide adoption - cutting ambiguity, compressing time-to-market, and making execution as structured as discovery.
Assembled and led elite, cross-functional teams in product, UX, and engineering, fostering a culture of rapid iteration, structured problem-solving, and customer obsession, making innovation not just an idea, but a repeatable process.
Bangalore, India
Tarento Technologies Pvt Ltd
July 2014 – Dec 2019
Lead Analyst
Worked alongside the Nordic CEO to fortify Tarento’s expansion in the Nordics, I operated as the bridge between Indian and Nordic operations - aligning strategy, execution, and delivery excellence. Though employed by Tarento India during this period, I was deeply integrated into the Nordic ecosystem, driving seamless collaboration and client success. This transition set the stage for my official move to Tarento Sweden in January 2020, cementing my role in scaling our presence and impact across the region.
Served across multiple roles in business units, in different capacities contributing to both Indian and Nordic customers, through digital application development (Web and Mobile apps), cross-regional collaboration to deliver tailored solutions.
Spearheaded and implemented the "Assist – Assure – Accredit" model and Agile Quality Transformation initiatives in Tarento’s Mobile Application Development Unit, seamlessly integrating Agile, Lean, and best engineering practices and models to enhance software resilience and execution speed.
Designed structured pre-sales and product discovery frameworks, including BLIXT to streamline pre-sales processes and LEAD Sprint to accelerate business alignment and decision-making.
Bangalore, India
Tarento Technologies Pvt Ltd
July 2014 – Dec 2019
Lead Analyst
Worked alongside the Nordic CEO to fortify Tarento’s expansion in the Nordics, I operated as the bridge between Indian and Nordic operations - aligning strategy, execution, and delivery excellence. Though employed by Tarento India during this period, I was deeply integrated into the Nordic ecosystem, driving seamless collaboration and client success. This transition set the stage for my official move to Tarento Sweden in January 2020, cementing my role in scaling our presence and impact across the region.
Served across multiple roles in business units, in different capacities contributing to both Indian and Nordic customers, through digital application development (Web and Mobile apps), cross-regional collaboration to deliver tailored solutions.
Spearheaded and implemented the "Assist – Assure – Accredit" model and Agile Quality Transformation initiatives in Tarento’s Mobile Application Development Unit, seamlessly integrating Agile, Lean, and best engineering practices and models to enhance software resilience and execution speed.
Designed structured pre-sales and product discovery frameworks, including BLIXT to streamline pre-sales processes and LEAD Sprint to accelerate business alignment and decision-making.
Some Recent Work
My Current Stack
My Current Stack
Education
Education
Bangalore, India
2010 – 2014
Bachelor of Engineering (BE)
Bangalore Institute of Technology, VTU.
Focussed Industrial Engineering, Computers, Simulation, Statistics & Mathematics
Bangalore, India
2010 – 2014
Bachelor of Engineering (BE)
Bangalore Institute of Technology, VTU.
Focussed Industrial Engineering, Computers, Simulation, Statistics & Mathematics
Certifications
Certifications
Certified Scrum Product Owner
Scrum Alliance
Certified Scrum Product Owner
Scrum Alliance
Certified Scrum Master
Scrum Alliance
Certified Scrum Master
Scrum Alliance
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Juran Institute
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt
Juran Institute
Data Science Bootcamp
Udemy
Data Science Bootcamp
Udemy
Awards
Awards
Star Award
Highest honor at Tarento, recognizing exceptional impact, and contributions to initiatives
Star Award
Highest honor at Tarento, recognizing exceptional impact, and contributions to initiatives
Global Delivery Excellence
Awarded for outstanding execution, delivery efficiency, and client success on a global scale.
Global Delivery Excellence
Awarded for outstanding execution, delivery efficiency, and client success on a global scale.
Tarento Ambasssador
Recognized for exemplary representation of Tarento’s values, innovation and leadership across regions.
Tarento Ambasssador
Recognized for exemplary representation of Tarento’s values, innovation and leadership across regions.
Some Recent Clients
Some Recent Clients
Recommendations
Recommendations
Thomas Millinger
Former CTO at Funmed
I’ve had the privilege of working with Abhi and what sets him apart is his ability to quickly grasp new challenges, engage others, and communicate clear, well-thought-out solutions. He takes ownership, drives work forward with energy and focus, and ensures that things get done. What makes him truly valuable is his unique combination of responsiveness and drive - he listens, adapts, and takes action. He’s not just technically skilled; he’s also a well-liked colleague who elevates the team with his positive attitude and collaborative mindset. In challenging situations I have experienced him with a calm and a solution-oriented mindset. Abhi is the kind of person you want on your team - not just to get things done, but to create an environment where others thrive. I highly recommend him to any organization looking for someone who combines execution, leadership, and teamwork.
Thomas Millinger
Former CTO at Funmed
I’ve had the privilege of working with Abhi and what sets him apart is his ability to quickly grasp new challenges, engage others, and communicate clear, well-thought-out solutions. He takes ownership, drives work forward with energy and focus, and ensures that things get done. What makes him truly valuable is his unique combination of responsiveness and drive - he listens, adapts, and takes action. He’s not just technically skilled; he’s also a well-liked colleague who elevates the team with his positive attitude and collaborative mindset. In challenging situations I have experienced him with a calm and a solution-oriented mindset. Abhi is the kind of person you want on your team - not just to get things done, but to create an environment where others thrive. I highly recommend him to any organization looking for someone who combines execution, leadership, and teamwork.
Trond Bugge
Innovation Executive | Venture-Builder
I have collaborated with Abhi on a couple of initiatives, and he consistently brings clarity, momentum, and execution focus. He thrives in cross-functional environments, seamlessly bridging business and technology. What stands out is his ability to stay ahead of the curve - keeping a sharp eye on emerging trends while taking a pragmatic approach to applying them. His responsiveness and adaptability make him an invaluable collaborator in fast-moving environments. With a builder-driven mentality and strong sense of ownership, Abhi excels in navigating ambiguity and driving meaningful outcomes.
Trond Bugge
Innovation Executive | Venture-Builder
I have collaborated with Abhi on a couple of initiatives, and he consistently brings clarity, momentum, and execution focus. He thrives in cross-functional environments, seamlessly bridging business and technology. What stands out is his ability to stay ahead of the curve - keeping a sharp eye on emerging trends while taking a pragmatic approach to applying them. His responsiveness and adaptability make him an invaluable collaborator in fast-moving environments. With a builder-driven mentality and strong sense of ownership, Abhi excels in navigating ambiguity and driving meaningful outcomes.
Josefin Dahlqvist
Founder at Yomaco
I had the pleasure of working with Abhi, and he is an exceptional professional. Loyal, customer-centric, and business-oriented, he always finds the best solutions for both the customer and their users. Abhi is an outstanding communicator who quickly grasps complex ideas with minimal explanation and articulates them with clarity. His structured approach ensures nothing is left to interpretation, and his ability to track loose ends keeps projects on course. He seamlessly bridges business, technology, and design, ensuring that cross-functional teams stay aligned and work efficiently toward a shared vision. Humble and highly skilled who thrives in agile environment. He excels at leading teams effectively and ensuring deadlines are met without compromising quality. Also incredibly generous in sharing his knowledge, making every collaboration a valuable learning experience. I highly recommend Abhi to any organization looking for a dedicated, results-driven professional with a strong ability to connect tech strategy, business, and design.
Josefin Dahlqvist
Founder at Yomaco
I had the pleasure of working with Abhi, and he is an exceptional professional. Loyal, customer-centric, and business-oriented, he always finds the best solutions for both the customer and their users. Abhi is an outstanding communicator who quickly grasps complex ideas with minimal explanation and articulates them with clarity. His structured approach ensures nothing is left to interpretation, and his ability to track loose ends keeps projects on course. He seamlessly bridges business, technology, and design, ensuring that cross-functional teams stay aligned and work efficiently toward a shared vision. Humble and highly skilled who thrives in agile environment. He excels at leading teams effectively and ensuring deadlines are met without compromising quality. Also incredibly generous in sharing his knowledge, making every collaboration a valuable learning experience. I highly recommend Abhi to any organization looking for a dedicated, results-driven professional with a strong ability to connect tech strategy, business, and design.
Adrian Rogoz
Enterprise Archictect, Xylem Inc
Working with Abhi on a complex and challenging migration project was a great experience. He has a rare ability to bring people together - always approachable, supportive, and a true team player. His attention to detail and proactive mindset were invaluable in keeping things on track, ensuring the project moved as smoothly as possible despite its challenges. He combines deep expertise with a strong eagerness to learn, constantly looking for ways to improve and adapt. Beyond his technical skills, he creates a positive and collaborative work environment. I’d highly recommend him to any team.
Adrian Rogoz
Enterprise Archictect, Xylem Inc
Working with Abhi on a complex and challenging migration project was a great experience. He has a rare ability to bring people together - always approachable, supportive, and a true team player. His attention to detail and proactive mindset were invaluable in keeping things on track, ensuring the project moved as smoothly as possible despite its challenges. He combines deep expertise with a strong eagerness to learn, constantly looking for ways to improve and adapt. Beyond his technical skills, he creates a positive and collaborative work environment. I’d highly recommend him to any team.
What I Do Outside Work
What I Do Outside Work
Running
I don’t run to add days to my life, but I run to add life to my days - Unknown
Running
I don’t run to add days to my life, but I run to add life to my days - Unknown
Reading & Listening To Podcasts
Those who don’t read have no advantage over those who can’t - Mark Twain
Reading & Listening To Podcasts
Those who don’t read have no advantage over those who can’t - Mark Twain
Writing & Storytelling
If I had more time, I would have written a shorter letter - Blaise Pascal
Writing & Storytelling
If I had more time, I would have written a shorter letter - Blaise Pascal
Roadtrips and Traveling
No man ever drives the same road twice, for it's not the same road and he's not the same man -Unknown
Roadtrips and Traveling
No man ever drives the same road twice, for it's not the same road and he's not the same man -Unknown
