Nishant Shah | Product Manager
Driving AI-Enabled Solutions & Transformative Product Strategies
Product Leadership Journey
I am a product manager specializing in artificial intelligence, with over 15 years of experience spanning product ownership, engineering leadership, and software development. My expertise lies in delivering high-impact digital products that solve real business problems.
AI Product Innovation
At Discover Financial Services, I launched the organization's first AI product—a generative chatbot trained on proprietary documentation—reducing analysis time, improving change accuracy, and streamlining onboarding.
Digital Transformation
At OneMain Financial, I delivered the Fast-Track Renewal Program, a multi-million-dollar MVP enabling fully digital loan renewals, cutting acquisition costs, and boosting ROI.
Customer Experience
Implemented A/B testing frameworks, customer journey mapping, and eSignature solutions to modernize the customer experience and drive business growth.
My approach combines stakeholder management, customer empathy, strategic prioritization, and collaborative leadership—essential skills for bridging product vision with business goals.
Current Product Focus
Conversational RAG Application
My current focus is developing a conversational retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) application that showcases my ability to design, prototype, and iterate on AI solutions addressing real-world needs.
This project demonstrates my product management approach: identifying user needs, designing intuitive experiences, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver value.
Product Management Journey
1
2008-2021
Software Engineer
Built technical expertise and product understanding through hands-on development across multiple industries and technologies.
2
2021-2024
Engineering Lead/Manager
Led cross-functional teams, managed stakeholders, and delivered product roadmaps while developing leadership skills.
3
2024-Present
Product Manager
Driving AI-enabled product strategy and innovation, focusing on customer needs and business outcomes.
Core Product Management Competencies
Results-Oriented Leadership
Blending business acumen, technical expertise, and market analysis to implement Agile initiatives that strengthen AI agent development and business outcomes.
Customer-Obsessed Approach
Proven track record of leading cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances team performance, workflows, and customer satisfaction.
Agile and Innovative Mindset
Analytical and data-driven approach to managing product roadmaps, identifying opportunities throughout the product lifecycle, and aligning AI innovation with business objectives.
Education & Certifications
1
2025
Masters of Business Administration
University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Expanding business acumen to complement technical expertise and strengthen product management capabilities.
2
2008
Masters of Computer Science
University of Chicago
Advanced study in computer science principles, algorithms, and software development methodologies.
3
2005
Bachelor of Computer Engineering
University of Illinois at Chicago
Foundational education in computer engineering, programming, and systems design.
Professional Development
Product Manager Certification
Product School, 2025
AI Product Manager Certification
Product School, 2025
Philosophy & Approach
I believe the most effective products emerge at the intersection of technical possibility, business viability, and genuine user needs. My approach combines rigorous analysis with creative problem-solving to build solutions that matter.
Bridge Builder
Connecting technical teams with business stakeholders to ensure alignment and shared understanding.
Innovation Driver
Identifying opportunities to apply emerging technologies to solve complex business challenges.
User Advocate
Keeping the end user at the center of all product decisions to ensure meaningful outcomes.
Data-Informed
Leveraging analytics and user feedback to continuously improve and iterate on solutions.
testimonials
"I came to know Nishant through an idea he submitted to Discover’s Ideation Hub that used GenAI to elevate the product team’s ability to enhance, support, and maintain an application.
Early in the project he had a key role in transferring knowledge and coaching us about the application, product team, and users. His depth of knowledge and ability to simplify a very complex product and processes proved crucial to the success of moving his innovative idea through the R&D methodology.
During the project he was instrumental with managing the various teams involved. His communication and hands on approach kept the project moving on schedule. Something that stands out for me about Nishant is his willingness to learn and embrace something new, in this case it’s the R&D methodology.
In the end we accomplished what we set out to do as an innovation squad, with Nishant’s guidance and leadership we delivered a proof of business for his solution and his recommendation to leadership.
What I appreciate about Nishant is his ability to capture and communicate the information his leadership team needs to stay informed and make decisions."
Carl Zuhl, Innovation Designer
"As product manager during the discovery phase of our AI innovation project, Nishant ensured the team stayed aligned and focused on the customer problem we were solving. His understanding of the domain and AI capabilities helped shape a clear direction for our innovation work. As we uncovered new insights and challenges, he adapted quickly and guided us forward, ultimately helping us deliver a successful outcome. As someone involved in shaping AI-driven solutions, I appreciated his ability to understand and translate complex AI concepts into applicable product strategies, making Nishant someone I'd confidently work with again."
Doug Scamahorn, Senior Manager Innovation Design
"I had the great fortune of working with Nishant during our time at One Main Financial,. In my role as the Director, Software Engineering a major part of my job was to identify and position talented engineers for continued success particularly in leadership roles. It was very obvious to me early on that Nishant exhibited significant skills in marshaling his talents with high levels of execution with outstanding communication skills but perhaps most importantly, maintaining a level of humility that very quickly earned him respect from his peer group.
Nishant is a driven engineer with a deep passion not just for the technology but the business drivers behind the software we write. Those 2 skills are not all that common and would, I believe, put Nishant in an advantageous position in areas such as Product Development/Management Nishant's strong desire to peruse higher education goals in Business also feeds this dual skill of technology and product.
It was an honor to work with Nishant and watch his career flourish and I trust that will continue."
Nishant is a driven engineer with a deep passion not just for the technology but the business drivers behind the software we write. Those 2 skills are not all that common and would, I believe, put Nishant in an advantageous position in areas such as Product Development/Management Nishant's strong desire to peruse higher education goals in Business also feeds this dual skill of technology and product.
It was an honor to work with Nishant and watch his career flourish and I trust that will continue."
Lance Smith, VP/D Engineering
"I have had the pleasure of working closely with Nishant for the past 2 years at OneMain Financial, where he has consistently demonstrated his exceptional skills and dedication to quality and delivery.
During his tenure, Nishant showcased his ability to tackle complex technical challenges with ease and precision. His expertise in software development, system architecture, and product management has been instrumental in driving the success of numerous efforts within our organization. Nishant's proficiency in analyzing user requirements and translating them into innovative technical solutions exceeded expectations and garnered praise from cross-functional colleagues.
What sets Nishant apart is his curiosity and passion for understanding the broader implications of technology on business objectives and user experiences. Recognizing his interest and aptitude for product strategy and development, Nishant has proactively sought opportunities to expand his skill set and knowledge in product management.
Nishant has acquired a thorough understanding of product lifecycle management, market analysis, and strategic planning. He has demonstrated an understanding of customer needs and market trends, leveraging this insight to inform product roadmaps and drive product innovation.
Moreover, Nishant's interpersonal and communication skills have enabled him to collaborate with cross-functional teams, bridging the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders. His ability to articulate complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner has been instrumental in fostering alignment and driving consensus across teams.
Beyond his technical acumen, Nishant' s proactive nature, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities make him an invaluable asset to any team.
I have the utmost confidence in Nishant's ability to excel in a product management role. His unique blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and leadership qualities make him a perfect fit for the challenges and growth opportunities that arise in fast paced agile environments."
During his tenure, Nishant showcased his ability to tackle complex technical challenges with ease and precision. His expertise in software development, system architecture, and product management has been instrumental in driving the success of numerous efforts within our organization. Nishant's proficiency in analyzing user requirements and translating them into innovative technical solutions exceeded expectations and garnered praise from cross-functional colleagues.
What sets Nishant apart is his curiosity and passion for understanding the broader implications of technology on business objectives and user experiences. Recognizing his interest and aptitude for product strategy and development, Nishant has proactively sought opportunities to expand his skill set and knowledge in product management.
Nishant has acquired a thorough understanding of product lifecycle management, market analysis, and strategic planning. He has demonstrated an understanding of customer needs and market trends, leveraging this insight to inform product roadmaps and drive product innovation.
Moreover, Nishant's interpersonal and communication skills have enabled him to collaborate with cross-functional teams, bridging the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders. His ability to articulate complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner has been instrumental in fostering alignment and driving consensus across teams.
Beyond his technical acumen, Nishant' s proactive nature, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities make him an invaluable asset to any team.
I have the utmost confidence in Nishant's ability to excel in a product management role. His unique blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and leadership qualities make him a perfect fit for the challenges and growth opportunities that arise in fast paced agile environments."
Brian Wood, Associate Director Digital Product Management
Let's Connect
I'm always interested in discussing new product opportunities, AI innovations, or how we might work together to solve challenging business problems.