Kensu Team: Sammy El Khammal

As Kensu continues to set the standard for Data Observability, we’re highlighting the team members driving this success to understand, in their words, a little bit more about them. Read on to learn more about Sammy El Khammal, Product Manager at Kensu.

Describe yourself in 3 words.

Optimistic,  adventurous, and empathetic.

What is your background before working for Kensu?

Before Kensu, I studied business engineering, where I had the opportunity to cover a wide range of topics, from marketing to chemistry as well as finance, statistics, and business intelligence. During this time as a student, I had the opportunity to discover the world of data through an internship at Mercedes.

Why did you choose to work for Kensu?

I started working for Kensu 4 years ago because Kensu is a young and dynamic company with a very talented team and a culture of innovation, which is incredibly exciting to me. Having the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of an early-stage company is challenging and fulfilling.

Describe Kensu in 3 words.

Visionary, dynamic, and passionate.

What do you enjoy the most about your role at Kensu?

I have the opportunity to work with incredibly talented people who share a common vision. It is fantastic to shape our product and see it come to life from the initial design to the final development stages.

What does a typical day as a Product Manager At Kensu look like?

A typical day starts with a sync with the product and the engineering teams to ensure we are aligned in our priorities and progress. Then, I focus on bringing more value to our customers by collecting the needs and designing functional requirements I will discuss with the engineering team. I stay connected to the work of our solution engineers to ensure the product aligns with our prospects and customers’ evolving expectations. 

What challenges do you and your team overcome?

The data observability market is challenging as it’s a new solution category in the data industry. Andy, Kensu Founder and CPO, often tells me that we are not here to do sci-fi: talking to our customers is the key, as we want to be sure to fulfill their needs. 

How would you describe Kensu’s culture?

To understand the Kensu culture, let me rephrase a well-known Harry Potter’s quote: “Help will always be given at Kensu to those who ask for it.” As a team in an evolving market, we help each other when needed in order to achieve common goals, and it’s very nice to feel supported.

What are you passionate about outside of working for Kensu?

I love discovering new cities. Once a month, I try to go on a trip to spend time with friends. I am proud to say that I have visited almost every European country.

What is the coolest place you’ve traveled to?

The most incredible place I’ve traveled to is Japan, where I spent an exchange semester. I loved it because of its unique combination of traditional culture, advanced technology, and delicious food! It was a great experience where I could snorkel in corals, explore ancient temples, bike with a view of Mount Fuji, and sing Karaoke in crazy places.

What can you typically be found doing on the weekend?

During the weekends, I usually spend time with friends and family, enjoying a brunch and staying active by playing padel tennis. I also enjoy attending concerts, and in the summer, given that Belgium is famous for its music festivals,  you will find me at one of the many festivals throughout the country. 

What is your favorite movie of all time?

Without hesitation, Christopher Nolan’s movie – looking forward to his 2023 release: Oppenheimer.

What is your favorite memory from working at Kensu so far?

Meeting our coworkers during the annual offsite is always a fun experience. Last year, we went to Porto, and I spent my birthday surfing on the Atlantic and tasting some Portuguese specialties. I really enjoy those moments when the team comes together, as it’s often an excellent opportunity to get the creative juices flowing.

Learn more about the Kensu team and Data Observability solution by visiting https://www.kensu.io.