Ming Shu
Role: Senior Technical Program Manager
Team: Technical Program Management
Why did you join Fast?
I believe in Fast’s mission. Plus, I had really good connections with all the interviewers, particularly when I asked Cem (Yildirim, Vice President of Engineering at Fast) about Fast’s long-term goals. To my surprise, he was super transparent and went into great detail about everything. I thought that was amazing, being able to share that without giving typical responses. That gave me confidence in Fast and ultimately set the tone for why I joined.
What were you doing before Fast?
I was in consulting for 12 years; I spent nine of them at AT&T doing all types of roles. I started as an engineer, worked as a program manager, product manager, anything else you can imagine. And then I spent the last three years at Google as a technical program manager.
Where did you grow up, and what were you like as a kid?
I grew up in Shanghai, China. I mostly focused on studying as a kid and then spent the summer playing with my cousins.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
One: Marrying my wife. Two: Successfully sleep-training our four-month-old daughter.
What’s your productivity hack?
Being a technical program manager, we have to be very concise and organized. So my productivity hack is making to-do lists.
When did someone’s kindness toward you make a big difference in your life?
Consultants typically begin new projects anywhere from after a month to six years. A mentor of mine spent almost two weeks preparing me for one of my next roles early in my career as a consultant. She guided me on how to progress in my career and went above and beyond what you expect from a mentor. Her generosity and kindness made a significant impact on my career trajectory. Coming full circle, I've provided a similar style of mentorship to my mentees over the years.
Who would you like to interview and why?
My late grandmother. She was a big part of my childhood. She’s my hero in life, and I would love to spend time interviewing her for that reason.
What is your top travel destination?
Paris. It’s the best place for morning pastries.
Where do you see yourself in a year from now?
I see myself driving a lot more Fast Checkout integrations for new sellers and new platforms.