Connector Spotlight: Ramiz Khan

Q. Tell us a bit about the projects you’re working on.

I’m currently helping a leading auto manufacturer design experiences for the future of autonomous vehicles. 

Q. What’s the most interesting challenge about the project?

Designing experiences for autonomous vehicles is incredibly exciting, as no one in the industry has quite figured it out. It’s a new frontier, with so much opportunity for innovation.

Additionally, there’s the inherent challenge of trying to continuously iterate on experiences for users while having to lock in features years in advance. This means that the hardware and software of any product or prototype needs to be flexible, or it risks becoming dead on arrival.

Q. Where did you work prior to Connected?

Hive Smart Home – I launched their smart thermostat, lights, and sensors.

Q. What achievement are you most proud of in your career to date?

Leading the end-to-end development of IoT products – from idea to prototype to market-ready product!

Q. Do you have a mantra you live by?

Balance requires investing in three hobbies: one to keep you fit, one to exercise your creativity, and one to make you money.

Q. What do you love to do outside of work?

I love a good cocktail with great company, ideally next to a large body of water.

Q. If you were stuck on a deserted island, what album, movie, and book would you take with you?

Album: Exodus, by Bob Marley and the Wailers 

Movie: Up

Book: Shantaram

Q. Describe yourself in three words. 

Energetic, curious, and (much to my wife’s chagrin) prankster.

Q. And finally, what’s your favourite product and why? 

Google Maps – it has saved countless relationships!