2025-10-29-perplexity-developer-relations-manager-api-platform-cover-letter
Sunday, November 2nd, 2025
Dear Perplexity Team,
I'm applying for the Developer Relations Manager role because I think Sonar is one of the most exciting API products I've seen in a while. An API for search that actually works well, that developers can integrate into their products without building their own search infrastructure from scratch - this unlocks so many possibilities.
I spent four years as a software engineer at Google Cloud. Since then, I've been focused on community building within tech ecosystems and helping developers discover and build with emerging technologies.
I use Perplexity all the time. I understand how to simplify complex technical problems and explain them in ways that make people want to build with them.
I'm also friends with someone on your team who was early at Perplexity, so I've been watching what you're building with genuine interest.
Why I'm a Fit
While I haven't held an official "Developer Relations Manager" title before, I have organized major technical events, built developer communities, created compelling technical narratives, and helped developers find their place in emerging technology ecosystems. I learn fast, and I'm genuinely excited about this work.
What I bring to the table:
I write code. I understand APIs, integrations, and modern web technologies. Learn more about my software experience here.
I'm well connected in developer communities, recently graduating top of my class at Gauntlet AI, an AI-first coding bootcamp where I worked with AI engineers and builders every day, 80-100 hours per week for three months.
I've organized multiple technical and cross-industry events, including Edge City Denver 2024—a seven-day developer event with 3,000+ attendees and 4.6/5 average satisfaction. I designed the programming, recruited speakers, built the buzz, and created the kind of momentum where developers wanted to show up and build together.
I've created demos, sample applications, and technical content that showcase what's possible with emerging technologies. I know how to make complex technical concepts feel accessible and exciting.
I'm really good at community building, both online and in person. I know how to organize meetups and hackathons that developers actually want to attend. I know how to cultivate relationships with developers, influencers, and partner organizations.
I've worked at the intersection of product, engineering, and marketing. Learn more here.
I know how to capture developer feedback, translate it into actionable insights, and work cross-functionally to make sure developer needs are met.
I have a passion for truth management - building systems that help people find accurate information, track knowledge, and make better decisions. What really excites me about Perplexity, especially the enterprise product, is how it directly enables this.
I'm excited to be the person who helps developers discover the possibilities of how their product can improve with the help of Sonar, and help them make those possibilities a reality.
The Ask
I care about the opportunity to work on something meaningful, learn fast, and help make Sonar the obvious choice for developers who need search in their applications.
I'm confident I can deliver meaningful impact quickly. I understand developers and speak developer, and I know how to build communities around emerging technology.
I appreciate your consideration and the opportunity to share why I believe I'd be a great addition to the Perplexity team.
Gary Sheng