Also known as BJ Kandel
I lead mobile and tech engineering teams at scale, and build apps on the side. Interested in Swift, iOS architecture, backend-driven UIs, and tools that help people focus.
About
I'm an Engineering Manager with a strong engineering background, currently leading mobile teams at Zalando SE in Berlin. I started as an iOS engineer and grew into leading and scaling cross-functional teams across iOS and Android.
I care deeply about craftsmanship — from architecture decisions to team dynamics. I've built backend-driven UI systems, led iOS feature teams, and founded a small mobile studio in Nepal. I enjoy finding elegant solutions to complex engineering problems.
Outside of work, I build side projects, write about software, and explore ways to make developers more productive. I've given talks at conferences like MobiConf on topics like backend-driven mobile UIs.
Projects
A native productivity app built on the Eisenhower Matrix. Prioritize tasks across four quadrants — Do, Schedule, Delegate, Eliminate — with drag-and-drop, subtasks, iCloud sync, widgets, macOS global hotkeys, and AI/MCP integration. Available on iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and CLI.
A minimalist Pomodoro timer for macOS. Quick-launch via global hotkey, distraction-free, and designed to keep you in flow without getting in the way.
A macOS menu bar app for tracking OpenRouter API credit usage in real time. See your balance, per-model breakdowns, and usage analytics without leaving your workflow.
Visualize how the year is passing — through pixel grids, circular rings, and progress bars. Track your yearly resolutions with daily check-ins, streaks, and home screen widgets that refresh hourly.
Calculates scientifically accurate egg boiling times based on egg size, storage temperature, altitude, and your desired doneness. Simple, precise, and delightful.
Contact
I'm always happy to connect — whether about engineering, ideas, or apps. Find me on the web.