According to a GlobeNewswire study, the global ride tech market is projected from $61 billion in 2022 to $70 billion in 2023. Such growth is largely attributed to digital product development across various companies worldwide. We discussed this industry with Kseniia Maiorova, who is a product manager at an international ride-hailing company known for launching well-known projects such as Yandex Go country-wide pick-up points delivery and the Sferum platform.
How did you transition into an expert in creating technological products, and what inspired this journey?
During my time at Skoltech's Master's program, it was routine to immerse students in the startup environment from day one, instilling the principles of entrepreneurship. My interest in starting and running startups and digital initiatives began here. I was drawn to the intersection of entrepreneurship and technology, initially focusing on data analysis, then design, and ultimately leading the creation of complex consumer products. Among my notable projects are the launch of intercity delivery in the Yandex Go app, VKontakte's educational communication platform Sferum, and, currently, developing delivery for the globally renowned inDrive company worldwide.
Can you tell us about interesting projects you have worked on?
At Align Technology, a leading manufacturer of Invisalign high-tech aligners, I was responsible for launching a cloud-based flagship IT product for doctors. This project involved creating tools for easy 3D work on both desktops and tablets. This software has a licence from the US FDA, which is very difficult to get. During COVID-19, I spearheaded the update of a mobile product for patients, facilitating remote progress tracking through smart photos of their teeth. This innovation not only helped retain customers during tough times but also showcased the tangible benefits of digital initiatives.
You are leading a major international product in a large multinational company. Could you briefly tell us what attracted you to the company as a top talent?
Joining inDrive, a rapidly growing ride-hailing company was a natural fit for me. By May 2021, the company had already facilitated about 1 billion journeys, and early in the year, it was valued at $1.23 billion by Insight Partners, General Catalyst, and Bond Capital. My interest in large-scale projects and the Offline to Online industry aligns with inDrive's global expansion, operating in 46 countries and receiving the SHIELD Trust Awards. But it never was just scale for me—the company's mission to fight injustice in the transport industry around the world resonates and inspires me to work together towards remarkable achievements. Here, I focus on new solutions and professional growth that should help people around the world to both ship and earn with us.
Products in the ride tech industry are in demand today, emerging, among others, under the aegis of such giants in the market as Uber and Amazon. Given your achievements in the industry, what do you do now, and what future plans do you have for your career?
Currently, I am leading the development of freight delivery in more than 15 countries, overseeing customer and driver experiences, marketplace efficiency, and business outreach.
Despite the challenges in a market with players like Uber, Amazon, and emerging Digital Freight Marketplace startups, we are confident in carving out a significant niche. Success in this competitive environment hinges on a well-chosen professional team and smooth product operations. We possess extensive experience in providing both, ensuring that our customers and drivers excel.
Besides, I advise other product managers and startups, particularly in the marketplaces and mobility services sector, helping them test hypotheses and find their Product Market Fit.
