[Instructor Spotlight] Upendra Poranki: Guiding Product Thinkers from Curiosity to Career Confidence

Meet Upendra Poranki

With 12+ years of product management experience across telecom, eCommerce, healthcare, and recruiting tech, Upendra Poranki knows what it takes to build products people love. He's led cross-functional teams at Nokia Siemens Networks, Amazon, and Procurify, delivering impactful solutions across product, design, and engineering. Now, as a Principal Product Advisor at UP PRODUCT STRATEGY CONSULTING, he helps startups find product-market fit and scale with purpose, always guided by one belief: great product management means solving real problems for real people. Connect with Upendra on LinkedIn.

From Curiosity to Career: A Passion for Problem-Solving

Upendra's journey began with a natural curiosity for how things work and a love for building. Armed with a dual honors degree in Computer Science and Mathematics, he took a data-driven, customer-first approach to every challenge—and found his perfect fit in product management.

“The thrill for me is in solving complex problems and transforming ideas into products that truly improve lives. Putting the customer at the center—and creating something meaningful—is what it's all about.”

The Educator's Mindset

Raised by two teacher parents, Upendra learned the value of education early on. While he initially considered an academic path, his career led him into product leadership, but the love for teaching never left. 

“I try to ignite a passion for product building through real-world application, hands-on learning, and one-on-one mentorship. I want every student to walk away not just with knowledge—but with confidence.”

He also mentored over 60 professionals into PM roles and launched initiatives like Amazon India's “Product Day” and Procurify's Associate PM Program, all aimed at democratizing access to the profession.

Watching Transformation Happen

For Upendra, the most rewarding part of teaching is seeing students grow from hesitant learners to confident product thinkers.

“The best moments are when I see someone from a non-traditional background thrive. It reminds me why I do this: to open doors and help people realize what they're capable of.”

One of his most memorable success stories? Helping a technical solution architect pivot into a PM role by reframing his expertise through the lens of customer value and business impact.

Advice for Aspiring PMs

“Stay curious. Never stop building.”

That simple phrase has guided Upendra through every phase of his career. Whether experimenting with side projects, following industry trends, or mentoring the next generation, he believes the best product managers are always learning—and always building.

Your Product Journey Starts Here

Upendra Poranki brings heart, experience, and insight to every session of our Product Management Bootcamp. If you're looking to break into the field, sharpen your skills, or build products that make a difference, this is where your journey begins.

Join the Product Management Bootcamp and start building your future today.