Tell us a little about yourself – your early days, your schooling, when you moved to the US, and how you landed at your current role.
I was born and raised in India, where my educational journey began. After completing my degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Mumbai, I unexpectedly found my calling in the field of IT. Despite not initially planning a career in IT, I was drawn to a programming course, sparking my interest in the industry. This led me to my first job as a programmer analyst with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in India, where I underwent an intensive training boot camp and subsequently worked on software development and support projects both in India and overseas.
My tenure at TCS quickly evolved into an international role, with postings in Switzerland and Australia, providing me with invaluable global experience. After six years with TCS, I decided to relocate to Toronto, Canada. This period proved critical in my career development as I faced a forced hiatus while waiting for work papers. During this time, I actively focused on improving my networking skills, a task that didn’t come naturally to me but would later prove instrumental.
With my Canadian work permit secured, I joined SHL System House Limited, taking up a consulting role that allowed me to work with diverse technologies and enhance my analysis skills. After four years, I made a significant move to Silicon Valley with my family, joining Oracle Corporation’s Applications IT organization. Over my 26-year tenure at Oracle, I ascended to a management role, ultimately becoming the Group Vice President, overseeing a substantial Applications IT organization. In early 2022, my journey took an exciting turn as I assumed the CIO role at Pure Storage, running Pure IT as part of the newly formed Digital Transformation Group. In this capacity, I am responsible for driving Pure’s technology-enabled business transformation, setting overall strategy, and executing the roadmap for Technology Infrastructure and Business Applications.
How important is it to have a mentor and/or sponsor to grow as a leader? What are some steps to build that type of relationship?
While I haven’t formally engaged with mentors or sponsors, my career has been shaped by numerous individuals who have left a lasting impact on me. From positive role models exemplifying humility and teamwork to those who have taught me invaluable lessons through challenging experiences, each encounter has contributed to my growth as a leader. Learning from both positive and negative examples has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of effective leadership.
In my view, continuous learning is inherent in professional development. While mentors and sponsors offer valuable guidance, day-to-day interactions also play a crucial role in shaping leadership skills. These experiences, both good and bad, have taught me not just what to do but also what to avoid. I believe that leveraging everyday encounters is a powerful means to mold oneself into the kind of leader one aspires to become.
For aspiring leaders, particularly women, I advocate for active networking and participation in mentorship programs. These initiatives not only connect individuals with influential figures who can offer guidance, but also provide opportunities for reciprocal learning. Joining such programs allows for meaningful interactions with a diverse range of professionals, fostering personal and professional development. Ultimately, the knowledge gained from these experiences can be paid forward, contributing to the growth of the next generation of women in the technology industry.
What advice would you give your 25-year-old self? What advice would you give to the next generation of young women entering the workforce?
My advice to my 25-year-old self is to see myself as others see me and to be less self-critical.
My best piece of advice is to always say “yes” to an opportunity, even if it scares you or you think you might not be ready for it. This isn’t limited to the technology industry nor to women – it applies to everyone. However, I feel that women – especially those early on in their careers – tend to question their readiness or ability to perform in a role where they may not have all the job requirement boxes checked. However, if you already meet all the criteria for a role, how will you learn something new? The truth is, saying “yes” only opens doors for you, creates opportunities, and introduces you to people who could shape up to be your advocates and/or mentors. Don’t be afraid to learn from those around you and be open to advice, while still staying true to yourself and who you are (authenticity matters!).
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Leadership is not a popularity contest – you have to make tough calls as and when needed!
If you could instantly become an expert in any skill or subject, what would that be? Why?
Learn a new language: communicate, communicate, communicate!
Rapid Fire:
Define Leadership in 3 words – Empathetic, Collaborator, Coach
You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why? Gray – it’s not black or white and manages to get along well with all other colors.
What was the last gift you gave someone? A silk scarf from India.
Yoga & Chai or Zumba & Iced Tea? Yoga & Chai wins – there’s no competition!
What’s one item you can’t live without? My iPad!
What does Neythri mean to you?
To me, Neythri encompasses a supportive sisterhood of like-minded women who support each other without judgment.
******************
