In this episode of mChats, meet Rajiv Ramachandran, Technology Center Lead in India, and learn about his vision for Millennium’s Bangalore office, favorite thing about his city, and advice for young technologists.

What initially sparked your passion for technology?

Digital signal processing was my favorite class in engineering; we got to develop computer algorithms that could recognize and classify speech signals. Technology’s ability to model and shape the way we do things has always fascinated me. From early in my career, I was fortunate to be a part of trading technology teams that changed the way we trade equities, from classic voice-based open outcry models to today’s sophisticated algorithm-based electronic trading. The journey continues with an ever-evolving technology stack.

What’s your advice to young technologists?

If you want to develop the best software for traders, you must first understand trading. As good technologists, we are expected to be the best in our craft, but it’s equally as important to know your domain. Your ability to apply technology and realize better business outcomes is the key. Focus on learning the business.

What excites you about working in Bengaluru for Millennium?

I have always enjoyed being part of starting something new. The opportunity to build a new team and shape the future of Millennium’s new technology center is amazing. Working at our Bengaluru office truly feels like working at a startup. It doesn’t hurt to have a workspace overlooking the cricket stadium.

What’s your favorite thing about living in Bengaluru?

Nothing beats Bengaluru’s awesome weather and its energy as a buzzling tech hub bursting with innovation and creativity. The city also has an amazing food culture—you can enjoy delicacies ranging from classic Indian to Italian to a variety of world cuisines. Bengaluru filter kappi (specialty filtered coffee) is my top pick!

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside work? How do you spend your weekends?

On weekends I love spending time with family, watching movies, and playing racquet sports with friends. I also enjoy traveling and visiting places in India.

Tell us what you enjoy most about working in Technology at Millennium?

At Millennium, I get to work with some of the best from around the globe: engineers with a passion to design new solutions for complex trading strategies and risk analytics.