The retail technology company expands Ipparthi’s scope to include leadership of technology teams.

In a strategic move to further strengthen its leadership team and drive product innovation in the rapidly evolving retail technology space, Shipt is pleased to announce Smrutha Ipparthi has been named chief technology and product officer. 

Smrutha, who was a leader in Shipt’s technology organization prior to being appointed the company’s CPO, will have an expanded role in shaping the company’s user experience and infrastructure, aligning product development with innovative technological advancements, and enhancing the overall experience for customers, shoppers and partners. She will also oversee the integration of technology solutions throughout the company's operations, harnessing emerging technologies to optimize processes and driving strategic initiatives to enhance the digital shopping experience for customers and more.

"As we continue evolving Shipt as a leading technology retail brand, Smrutha’s ability to drive technological advancements that further cement Shipt’s status as an industry leader will be instrumental to our growth,” said Shipt Chief Executive Officer Kamau Witherspoon. “With a unique combination of expertise in ecommerce and operational excellence, as well as experience driving product innovation, we’re thrilled to see what our team will accomplish under her leadership.”

In her tenure as chief product officer, the seasoned engineer spearheaded the development of successful product offerings, including the recently-launched student membership model, which expands access to the convenience and simplicity of same-day delivery for budget-restricted college students. Ipparthi also played an instrumental role in developing Shipt’s Summit Seeker Program, an initiative that incentivizes shoppers to provide exceptional service, such as industry-leading gas cashback offer, $50 in grocery credits, wellness perks and more. By rewarding shoppers for their high standard of service, Ipparthi, in turn, also improved the customer experience.

“One of the best parts about working at Shipt is seeing the bright, kind minds of our community work together to achieve great success within our industry, while prioritizing the experiences of Shipt’s customers, partners, and shoppers,” said Ipparthi. “I’m extremely proud of the work the team is doing to continue bringing our customers delight in every delivery, and I look forward to what we will accomplish next.”

As chief technology and product officer, Smrutha will continue to report directly to Witherspoon, contributing to the company's long-term strategic direction and playing a vital role in ensuring Shipt's continued leadership in the technology retail sector.