Spotlight on Farooq Shaikh: Embracing evolution

Over 15 years in the travel industry, Farooq Shaikh developed a deep familiarity with travel’s pain points. Joining Spotnana offered the prime opportunity to help solve them at scale.

At Spotnana, Farooq is both a Product Manager and the leader of Spotnana’s Tech Support team. His role includes supporting multiple business models tailored to different clients and partners, exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) can improve efficiency, and more.

Farooq discussed his career journey, why he chose to join Spotnana, what it’s like to work on his team, and what he enjoys about working here.

Can you share your career journey before Spotnana?

Product Manager Farooq Shaikh

“I’ve been part of the travel industry for over 15 years, and it’s been an incredibly dynamic and rewarding journey.

“I started my career as an auditor working on airline processes, which helped me understand the operational side of travel. I transitioned into a support role focused on low-cost carriers, which was my first real exposure to the fast-paced, customer-facing side of the industry.

“I also had the opportunity to work in embedded roles operating directly from client office locations. These provided hands-on experience interacting with customers face-to-face, understanding their expectations closely, and delivering solutions in real time. That exposure played a key role in shaping my approach to customer service and stakeholder management.

“Over time, I moved into Emergency Travel Services (ETS), where I handled travel for over 400 clients. In that capacity, I learned how to operate under pressure and deliver during crucial moments. I then stepped into the offshore travel space, managing travel for some of the world’s leading hedge funds, including VIPs and HNWIs, where precision and personalization are key.

“My travel industry career has also exposed me to a variety of industries. I managed travel for one of the world’s largest liquor companies and handled end-to-end travel operations for an IPL cricket team. Each role brought new challenges, teams, and perspectives.

“Constant evolution has truly defined my career. I’ve worked across global markets, diverse teams, and complex client requirements, and I’ve always embraced change over settling into one comfort zone. The travel industry’s ever-changing nature has kept my career exciting.”

Why did you choose to come work at Spotnana?

“It all started with a Spotnana LinkedIn post. The concept of modernizing the travel industry through technology and solving long-standing, deeply rooted problems immediately caught my attention. Having spent years in the industry, I was already familiar with its pain points. However, what stood out was the opportunity to actually solve them at scale.

“It was evident that Spotnana has a bold vision and the ambition to fundamentally transform how travel works, powered by innovation and strong talent. If you’ve been in this industry long enough, you regularly brainstorm how to fix the problems and feel driven to create solutions that work for customers, travel providers, travel sellers, and the rest of the ecosystem.

“Spotnana offered that opportunity. The vision of building a scalable, API-driven travel ecosystem that delivers lasting solutions, instead of temporary fixes, was something I knew I wanted to be part of.”

What is it like to work on your team?

“Managing technical support in a fast-paced technology company requires adaptability, deep product understanding, and strong collaboration. What makes it truly rewarding, though, is the team.

“I’m fortunate to work with a group of highly motivated individuals who are constantly learning and evolving. Spotnana’s product development velocity is exceptional. New features are rolled out rapidly, and staying up to date requires continuous learning and agility.

“Our team thrives in this environment. There’s a strong culture of self-improvement, curiosity, and ownership. We support multiple business models tailored to different clients and partners, which adds another layer of complexity and learning. We’re also actively exploring artificial intelligence (AI) to automate workflows and improve efficiency. While human judgment remains critical, it’s exciting to be part of that evolution.

“Beyond my team, what stands out is the broader culture at Spotnana. You’re constantly surrounded by people who are driven, innovative, and boundary-pushing. That energy is contagious, and it motivates you to raise your personal bar each day.”

Can you share how in-person gatherings have shaped your Spotnana experience?

“I’ve been fortunate to attend Converge, our global offsite, in Jaipur (2022), Dubai (2024), and Bangkok (2025). Each one has been a truly memorable experience.

“Converge is more than just a company event. It’s where Spotters from across the globe come together for a few days to connect, collaborate, and celebrate. For many, it’s the first time meeting teammates in person, which makes those introductions and conversations even more special.

“It’s action-packed, with every moment contributing to building stronger connections. We learn during insightful sessions and knowledge-sharing. We bond over casual conversations during meals, workouts, dancing, and local experiences. It’s incredibly exciting to see 300+ Spotters from around the world come together in one place for the welcome dinner cooked by our Founder Sarosh Waghmar. It’s no small feat, and huge credit goes to the teams that make it happen seamlessly.

“Above all, Converge sets the tone for the year ahead. It aligns everyone on goals, strengthens relationships, and leaves you energized and motivated. Every year, you leave with memories—and look forward to the next one.”

What is your favorite thing about working at Spotnana?

“Without a doubt, it’s the people and the culture. At Spotnana, I work with some of the best minds in the industry. People here are highly skilled and deeply committed to our shared vision of powering the perfect trip for travelers everywhere. This feeds a strong sense of purpose across the organization.

“Our core values are defined and actively lived. People hold each other accountable, challenge ideas openly, and are equally quick to acknowledge when a colleague shares a better perspective. That openness creates an environment where decisions are made thoughtfully and collaboratively. There’s healthy debate, mutual respect, and a shared focus on doing what’s right for the company. 

“Our culture encourages growth, ownership, and excellence. That’s what makes working here so fulfilling.”

Fun Facts!

• What’s the best trip you ever took? Visiting the Kaaba in Makkah (Saudi Arabia). It was a pilgrimage I did with my mother, which made it even more special.
• What’s your favorite thing to do at the airport? People-watch and observe different behaviors. It’s the easiest way to kill time.
• What’s your favorite airplane snack? Nuts or chocolate.
• Aisle, middle, or window seat? Window. I have loved it since childhood.
• What’s your go-to show to watch on a trip? I prefer movies. I have a long list to get through and rarely rewatch.
• What’s the top destination on your bucket list? One of these three: Tanzania (Serengeti), Kenya (Masai Mara), or Botswana (Okavango Delta).