Sharanya Thummalapally

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT SHARANYA THUMMALAPALLY

I specialize in turning complex data into practical insights that improve programs, products, and communications. My work sits at the intersection of research, user experience, and strategy. I help organizations understand the clients and audiences they serve and make better decisions because of it. I bring experience across the full research lifecycle, from designing studies and managing research operations to translating findings into clear, actionable recommendations for decision-makers.My career began in public health program evaluation and technical assistance, including work that supported the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). More recently, at Banyan Communications, I managed research projects and worked cross-functionally to develop evidence-based recommendations for clients and directly apply insights to improve health communication products. Leveraging a master’s degree in public health (focused in behavioral science) and 10+ years in consulting, I’ve developed strengths in mixed-methods research, user experience (UX) and audience insights, research operations, project management, and client relationship building.Accomplishments: Managed large federal research projects, including national program evaluations, leading to contract renewals and new business opportunities. Built and scaled a new research and evaluation team, supervising team members and establishing research operations, tools, and SOPs to support company-wide projects. Directed audience testing studies with hundreds of participants to shape public health communication assets addressing food safety, violence prevention, and other critical health issues. Led a team of 5 to develop a practical internal tool to support managers in integrating social equity and cultural humility concepts into project work and proposals, across a company division of 200+ employees. Introduced innovative research approaches, including the use of AI-assisted qualitative analysis to accelerate large literature reviews.I’m also passionate about sustainable and accessible transportation that allows people to live happier and healthier lives. As a board member of Propel ATL, I believe in and actively support the mission to transform Atlanta’s streets into safe, inclusive, and thriving spaces for people to ride, walk, and roll. If you’re working in insights & strategy, mixed-methods research, evaluation, or customer insights/success I’d love to connect and exchange ideas!