Padmaja Kota

Padmaja Kota is a prominent engineering leader currently serving as the Director of Software Engineering at Salesforce in India. With over 21 years of experience in product development and engineering leadership, she has built a significant career in the tech industry. Her journey at Salesforce began seven years ago, where she transitioned from a tech lead to her current managerial role, showcasing her growth and adaptability in a dynamic environment.145

In her position, Padmaja is not only responsible for driving product development but also plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality within the tech sector. She is actively involved with the Salesforce Women’s Network (SWN), an initiative aimed at supporting women in STEM fields and advocating for equal opportunities.13 Padmaja emphasizes the importance of creating a conducive work environment for women, highlighting that the lack of representation in STEM is more about opportunity than capability.1

Her educational background includes a degree from Rajiv Gandhi Technological University, which laid the foundation for her extensive career in software engineering.2 Throughout her career, Padmaja has been recognized for her leadership skills and commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture. She continues to inspire others by advocating for underrepresented groups and mentoring aspiring engineers.16

In summary, Padmaja Kota exemplifies leadership in technology while championing equality and inclusivity within the industry.