Why are some leaders able to build influence across functions, while others get stuck in silos?
In this episode, Shalini Choudhary — Head of Customer Success at Jisr and a seasoned leader in HR tech — breaks down what it actually takes to lead, innovate, and win in high-growth, high-stakes environments.
She’s done the big corporate thing. Now she’s building in the trenches of Saudi’s startup scene. And she’s not sugarcoating it. From cross-functional politics to the real role of AI, Shalini shares what others won’t say — and what every CS or SaaS leader needs to hear.
Listen if you want to stop playing defense and start positioning yourself — and your function — as a strategic powerhouse.
In this episode:
- The hard truth about customer success vs. customer experience
- Why most AI conversations are missing the point — especially in HR
- How to gain influence across product, marketing, and leadership
- Building credibility fast in startup environments
- What not to do as a new leader (and what earns respect fast)
- The three traits every powerful cross-functional leader must master
- Frameworks that scale teams — without micromanagement
- The psychological edge of detachment and clarity in decision-making
- Why Saudi Arabia is ground zero for the next wave of HR tech
If you’re exploring the intersection of HR, AI, and customer-led growth in the Middle East, this episode with Shalini Choudhary is not to be missed.
Did you find this episode valuable? Make sure to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! We're building the Middle East's customer success & revenue community together, and your voice matters. See you in the next episode!
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Hosts:
Haydar - LinkedIn
Ivy - LinkedIn
