From Technology Director to Chief Data Officer: A Q&A with Chaitanya Baddam, MBA ’23

Career Corner: Technology executive Chaitanya Baddam pivoted from insurance platform technology director to chief data officer at an insurtech startup.

Chaitanya Baddam, MBA ’23, is a graduate of the Executive MBA Metro NY program offered by the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management. In 2022, she decided she was ready to take the next step in her career and made a successful career pivot with the help and guidance of the Career Management Center at the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business.

As the chief data officer and a founding team member at COVU, an innovative insurtech startup, Baddam leads tactical initiatives in platform and technology enablement while driving innovation across marketing, B2B sales, partner onboarding, operations, and data architecture. “I’ve also been instrumental in shaping our people strategy to foster organizational growth and a high-performance culture to position the company for scalable success in a competitive market,” she says.

Prior to joining COVU, Baddam served as the director of technology at John Hancock, overseeing the software development of their life insurance platform. There, she focused on “mobilizing high-performing teams to drive innovation and operational excellence in the life insurance sector.”

Q: What inspired you to switch to a new career track?

Baddam: While pursuing my Executive MBA at Cornell—and being inspired by the coursework and interactions with professors and students alike—I knew that I wanted to make a bigger impact in my field by directly applying my learning to a broader cause. I was drawn to the dynamic environment of startups, where I could wear multiple hats and contribute across various functions. The decision to pivot simply felt like a natural progression. I now had the opportunity to combine both my technical expertise and tactical execution skills in a dynamic and innovative setting. It just felt like the right time to take the next step.

Q: In what ways did the SC Johnson College of Business Career Development staff help guide you in your career pivot? What strategies recommended by your career coach proved particularly effective, and how so?

Baddam: The support from the SC Johnson College’s Career Development team was invaluable. My career coach, Jennifer Burns, provided personalized guidance that helped me identify my transferable skills and tailor my story for the startup world. Key strategies included:

• Targeted coaching: One-on-one sessions helped me clarify my career objectives and translate my past experiences into the language of entrepreneurship.
• Identifying your companies: I was advised to target companies whose missions and values aligned with my own, ensuring that every potential employer was a strategic fit for my skills and career goals.
• Choose the sector: Rather than casting a wide net, I focused on sectors that leveraged my expertise and passion. This allowed me to delve deep into industries where my experience could shine, especially within innovative startups.
• Networking: My coach stressed the importance of reconnecting with former colleagues, alumni, and industry contacts. This proactive outreach gave me valuable insights and opportunities that I would not have discovered otherwise.
• Build your network: In addition to tapping into existing connections, I made it a priority to expand my network. I attended industry events, participated in networking sessions, and engaged with peers and mentors, all of which opened doors to new opportunities.
• Alumni connections: The college facilitated introductions to industry professionals and fellow alumni who had successfully navigated similar transitions, giving me real-world insights while also helping to expand my network.
• Apply strategically: Instead of a blanket approach, I learned to tailor my job applications to roles that truly matched my skills and ambitions. This targeted and thoughtful approach increased my chances of finding the right fit and resonated well with prospective employers.
• Negotiation tactics: My coach provided practical advice on the art of negotiation, empowering me to confidently discuss compensation, responsibilities, and benefits, to ensure that my next role aligned with my professional and personal aspirations.
• Guided decision making: Throughout the process, I received ongoing support that helped me assess opportunities critically and make well-informed decisions. This holistic approach ensured that each step in my career pivot was aligned with my long-term goals.

Q: Did you select coursework or extracurricular activities to prepare yourself or gain relevant experience for your career pivot?

Baddam: Yes, I intentionally selected coursework that deepened my knowledge in data products, strategic management, and entrepreneurship. Beyond the classroom, I engaged in extracurricular activities such as leadership workshops, industry panels, and startup incubator events. These experiences not only enriched my understanding of the business landscape but also provided practical insights that I could immediately apply in my new role.

Q: Did you build a new network of contacts that has been important to your career pivot? If so, what role did the SC Johnson College play in helping to build that network?

Baddam: Absolutely. The SC Johnson College of Business is known for its vibrant and supportive community and it played a critical role in expanding my professional network. Through career fairs, alumni events, and industry-specific panels, I connected with mentors, peers, and industry experts who offered guidance, opportunities, and support during my career transition. The Smith Family Business Initiative international trip and global business study program were other excellent avenues to grow my network and venture into different industries. This network continues to be a significant asset in my ongoing professional journey.

Q: What advice do you have for other students or alumni of the SC Johnson College who are interested in making a career pivot?

Baddam: Trust in your abilities, recognize your value, and don’t be afraid to take a calculated leap. The SC Johnson College offers an incredible range of resources—you just need to take that first step and reach out.

Here are some key tips that helped guide me through my career pivot:

• Engage deeply: Take full advantage of personalized career coaching, networking events, and workshops to gain both insights and actionable strategies.
• Be proactive: Identify courses and extracurricular opportunities that align with your new career path and be willing to step outside your comfort zone.
• Network authentically: Build genuine relationships with alumni and industry professionals who can offer mentorship and support.
• Stay adaptable: Embrace change and view your pivot as an opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. Your time at Cornell has equipped you with the skills, resilience, and innovative mindset necessary to thrive in any industry.

Go rule the world but with the aim of doing the greatest good!