Shakil Akhtar

Sharpshooter
DISC Type : DC

Associate Director of AI at Best Buy

Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Overview

Shakil Akhtar is the Associate Director of AI at Best Buy, a hands-on architect specializing in AI, ML, cloud robotics, and IoT. An ex-Amazon innovator with an M. Tech from BITS Pilani, he has a history of leading high-profile programs. Colleagues describe him as logical, curious, and a dedicated problem-solver.

Outside of his corporate roles, Shakil is passionate about sharing knowledge and applying technology for social good. He volunteers as a Machine Learning Lead for a non-profit AI project and is a frequent speaker at university events, engaging with the next generation of technologists on topics like open-source AI.

He is the author of the book "Mastering AI and Cloud Robotics, " which details how to design and build intelligent, cloud-based robotics applications.

Personality Overview

Thorough Evaluator

ROI Driven

Rigorous & Demanding

They are very proud of what they do.  They are not focused on building rapport and relationships. They like to be in a position where they can control the conversation and terms.

Topics They Care About

AI and Cloud Robotics
He is the author of "Mastering AI and Cloud Robotics" and a thought leader in building intelligent, scalable systems, frequently speaking on the topic at industry and academic events.
AI for Social Good
Volunteered as the Machine Learning Lead for the Vital Sign AI project, using ML to detect early symptoms of COVID-19, showcasing his commitment to impactful technology.
Knowledge Sharing
Actively shares his expertise through authorship and speaking engagements at universities, including being an honored guest at events for DSATM and MIT.

Media Appearances

Shakil has no verified media appearances

Work History

5-2025
Associate Director of AI at Best Buy
5-2022 - 6-2025
Principal Architect, Director at Ola
4-2020 - 10-2023
Machine Learning Lead - Volunteer (Non-profit Organization) at Vital Sign AI (COVID-19)
9-2020 - 6-2022
Architect at Amazon
5-2019 - 8-2020
Staff - Architect at Juniper Networks

Education

2019 - 2020
M.Tech - Data Analytics from Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 6 Location : Bengaluru, Karnataka, India Job Level : Mid-senior Designation : Associate Director of AI at Best Buy
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Insights For Selling To Shakil

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Refer to testimonials from well-known industry leaders
  • Objectively showcase the impact that your product creates
  • Speak about competitive differentiation that your product offers

DONT's

  • Do not spend too much time focusing on product tech or features
  • Don't try too hard to forge relationships with them
  • Don’t focus on process and rules, give the impression of being a ‘gets it done’ person

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Shakil is

  • Confidence in impact is paramount to them, followed by a sense of achievement and ROI.
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Shakil

  • If they are not convinced, they will have no hesitation in telling you the same.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Shakil move?

  • They can take decisions very fast if you manage to convince them.
  • Can Shakil take some risk or not?

  • The risks don’t matter much to them.

You And Shakil

Personality Compatibility


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