Ray Traylor

I am

About

CTO & Co-Founder of Negotiate Fairly and former tech leader at innovative startups VSorts, PairTree, Crayon, and AdFluence. Experienced software and AI developer in Python, JavaScript, SQL, and AWS.

Software Developer & Chief Technology Officer.

Known for spearheading technology strategies and scaling companies, Raymond excels in strategizing and executing tech solutions to drive business growth.

  • Role: Developer and Manager
  • Industry: Technology, Startups
  • Availability: Open for opportunities
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/raytraylor

Discover his approach to building formidable engineering teams and pioneering innovative tech solutions in the startup world.

Stats

Raymond Traylor is a seasoned software engineering executive with a track record of building robust software solutions and leading high-performance teams across the globe. His approach to tech leadership is grounded in tangible results, from cost-saving measures to revenue-generating projects.

% Cost Reduction VSorts AWS

Automated Ads AdFluence Home Depot

% Revenue Increase PairTree Home Study

Direct Reports Developers worldwide

Skills

As a full stack web developer with a preference for backend work, I excel in using technology for problem-solving. I effectively understand project objectives and tackle complex issues with simplicity. My focus is on delivering timely, robust, and long-term solutions.

Python 80%
Django / DRF 90%
JavaScript / TypeScript 65%
Postgres / SQL 80%
AWS 70%
React.js 55%

Resume

A dynamic tech professional with a unique career path that includes significant roles as a Developer, Manager, Executive, and Founder. My diverse experiences in these areas have provided me with a deep and comprehensive understanding of the technology sector. Skilled in developing innovative solutions, leading and motivating teams, executing strategic organizational goals, and pioneering new ventures, I bring a rare combination of technical expertise and leadership acumen.

Executive Experience

Chief Technology Officer & Co-Founder

2024 - Present

Negotiate Fairly - Austin, TX

Negotiate Fairly is a company dedicated to helping speakers, especially academics, secure fair compensation for their engagements. We offer services like rate recommendations, contract negotiations, scheduling, and post-event tasks. Tools include dashboards for tracking events, expenses, and correspondence. The goal is to alleviate the stress of booking and negotiating, allowing speakers to focus on their presentations.

Chief Technology Officer

2023 - 2024

VSorts - Philadelphia, PA

In my role as CTO of VSorts, I am at the forefront of marrying technology with our core mission: enhancing human-computer interaction and leveraging AI to identify and mitigate biases. My expertise in software development and AI application is instrumental in developing tools that promote inclusivity and reduce social risk across various sectors.

Management Experience

Director of Engineering

2022 - 2023

PairTree - Seattle, WA

As the Director of Engineering at a fast-growing software company, I led the Engineering Department, overseeing both mobile app and web development teams. My responsibilities included managing a diverse team consisting of Senior Engineers, Software Developers, Product Managers, and UX/UI Designers.

I introduced key improvements such as agile methodologies, proper code reviews, testing, quality assurance, and continuous integration deployments. My role also encompassed recruiting and hiring, where I standardized the interview process and optimized onboarding procedures. A significant contribution of mine was the delivery of Home Base, a major project that accounted for 70% of the company's revenue.

Engineering Manager

2021 - 2022

Crayon - Boston, MA

As a Software Engineering Manager, I established a development team, recruiting a mix of senior engineers, developers, a product manager, and a senior UX/UI designer. I led the team in delivering key projects like Gong integration, a Crayon Chrome Extension, email improvements, and a React overhaul.

My focus was on improving testing, QA, and code reviews. I implemented Kanban and Scrum in Jira, conducted tutorials on various technical topics, and was active in the tech community through conferences and hackathons. Additionally, I contributed to Front-End, Backend, and Documentation Guilds, aiding in their growth and development.

Developer Experience

Software Engineer

2019 - 2021

Mediagistic (AdFluence) - Tampa, FL

I played a crucial role in various software engineering projects. My accomplishments included turning around a previously unsuccessful project and ensuring the timely release of critical milestone features. I was also involved in the hiring process, contributing to the expansion of the development team.

My technical expertise was pivotal in transforming a problematic, legacy, outsourced codebase into a refactored, tested, and robust codebase. I implemented several key technologies and methodologies, including AWS, Test-Driven Development (TDD), Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD), GitHub, and formal merge request processes. These improvements led to a significant reduction in the burn rate by 32%.

As a Software Engineer, I developed a real-time ad buying platform catering to local and international clients, which involved integrating a variety of REST APIs with major ad platforms like Facebook and Google. My role required efficient and secure management of large datasets. Adhering to best practices, I utilized test-driven development and Agile Scrum methodologies. My team-based work included pair-programming, maintaining high-quality assurance, and implementing continuous integration. I worked on projects for notable clients such as Home Depot, Papa Johns, Planet Fitness, and the Saint Lucia Tourism Board, employing technologies like Python, JavaScript, PostgreSQL, Django, Docker, Pytest, GitLab CL/CI, Sentry, Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana, Filebeat, Celery, and Redis.

Software Developer

2011 - 2019

Broadway Software - Denver, CO

I was responsible for the development and coding of a web store that boasted a combined retail value of $64 million. My efforts were instrumental in generating sales of one million dollars annually for four consecutive years. A key part of my role involved synchronizing 100,000 products between major online platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and our e-commerce website. To achieve these results, I utilized a range of technologies including Amazon AWS, Amazon API, eBay API, WooCommerce, Python, and MySQL. This role not only highlighted my technical proficiency but also my ability to significantly contribute to the company's financial success through innovative software solutions.

Services

Unlock the full potential of your digital landscape with bespoke technology solutions. My services are tailored to empower your business, harnessing the power of cutting-edge technology and innovative strategies to drive growth, efficiency, and competitive advantage.

Web and App Development

Transform your idea into reality with my web and app development services. I specialize in creating responsive, user-friendly websites and mobile applications that engage your audience and streamline your operations.

SaaS Solutions

Experience the power of the cloud with my Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions. My scalable, secure, and cost-effective SaaS offerings are designed to enhance productivity and provide seamless integration for your business processes.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Leverage the latest advancements in AI to revolutionize the way you do business. From machine learning algorithms to predictive analytics, my AI services can help you gain actionable insights, automate processes, and personalize customer experiences.

Consulting Services

Navigate the complexities of the digital world with my expert consulting service. I provide strategic guidance to help you optimize your technology investments, align IT with business goals, and achieve operational excellence.

Employment and Contracting

Enhance your team's capabilities with my specialized skills in employment and contracting. I offer my expertise for short-term projects or long-term roles, providing you with the professional dedication and skill set required to drive your initiatives to success.

Angel / Seed Investment

Dive into new ventures with confidence as I bring my investment services to your innovative business or idea. I am dedicated to nurturing growth and potential, offering financial investment and strategic support to help turn visionary concepts into successful market realities.