Anuj Joshi

Driving Strategic Innovation in IT

Anuj Joshi

Chief Technology Officer,

S&A Law Offices

Adaptability is the foundation of success in a world where technology is in constant flux. For Anuj Joshi, who has now recently joined S&A Law Offices as Chief Technology Officer, this philosophy has defined his decades-long career. Starting out in mechanical engineering, Anuj pivoted to the emerging field of computers in the mid-90s—a bold move at a time when personal computing was still in its infancy. Mastering early systems like Windows 3.11, he discovered his passion for IT, which sparked a career marked by continuous learning and adaptation. Throughout his journey, Anuj built multifaceted expertise across various IT domains, transitioning from network and systems administration to leadership roles in telecom engineering, service delivery, and database management. His significant tenure in the BPO sector sharpened his skills in remote work environments, while 19 years in the research industry deepened his knowledge in advanced technologies such as data centres, cloud computing, and virtualisation. Today, he focuses on IT security and compliance, excelling in this domain for over 25 years. Reflecting on his career, Anuj highlights the key insight that technology is perpetually evolving. He emphasises the importance of maintaining a strong foundation while being adaptable. “Change is inevitable,” he notes. “If you can accept it and prepare for it, you’ll succeed; otherwise, you risk being left behind.” His career has witnessed transformative shifts—from the absence of smartphones a decade ago to today’s advancements in AI and machine learning. Not only is Anuj an expert in IT service management and cloud architecture, but he is also a certified information security professional and ethical hacker. His strategic leadership has garnered multiple CIO100 awards and recognition as a Gen AI icon, showcasing his impactful contributions to the IT landscape. Anuj’s commitment to innovation continues to drive organisations forward in a rapidly changing digital environment. Speaking with TradeFlock, Anuj discloses more about this journey and what makes him a strategy leader.

What has been your biggest learning in this fast-paced, evolving industry?

The biggest takeaway from my journey is twofold. First, the younger generation is incredibly tech-savvy, mastering programming languages, databases, and applications at a rapid pace. To succeed, I’ve learnt to adapt and match their speed rather than expecting them to slow down. Second, continuous learning is essential. The IT industry evolves rapidly, and staying updated on market trends and future technologies is crucial for survival. I always keep an eye on the future, anticipating what’s next and making sure I’m prepared for changes, even if they are a few years away.

How do you build future strategies as Chief Strategy Officer? What’s your approach?

As Chief Strategy Officer, I focus on futuredriven strategy development. A pivotal moment was advocating for virtualisation 15 years ago, a concept many viewed sceptically. By anticipating challenges, we seamlessly transitioned to remote work during COVID-19, showcasing innovative thinking. Efficiency is also key; I prioritise consolidation and cost-saving measures to maximise resources, minimise waste, and lower our carbon footprint, promoting sustainability. Lastly, security is integral to every strategy. In today’s digital landscape, safeguarding our organisation is paramount, and I ensure that robust security measures are embedded in all initiatives. Together, these strategies create a comprehensive framework for long-term success.

What would you say are your biggest strengths and weaknesses?

My greatest strength lies in my ability to align strategic initiatives with operational goals, emphasising long-term planning three to seven years into the future. This ensures our strategies drive organisational success. Additionally, my forward-thinking mindset and commitment to continuous learning help me stay informed about emerging trends. However, I recognise my weaknesses: I can sometimes overthink decisions, which may delay action, and I tend to be overly trusting, which can present challenges in more sceptical environments. Balancing these traits is essential for effective leadership

What are your views on the evolving cybersecurity landscape?

The cybersecurity landscape has transformed dramatically, evolving from a niche concern to a vital industry. A decade ago, hacking was rarely discussed as a profession, but today, it encompasses an entirely new generation of threats. For instance, a 15-year-old hacked Cisco’s headquarters, while a 16-year-old executed the Uber breach in 2022. This shift highlights that young individuals are engaging in both constructive and destructive ways, often finding financial gain in illegal activities. The rise of the dark web has facilitated the trade of sensitive information, complicating defence efforts. As security professionals, we must continuously adapt, developing strategies to safeguard our organisations and data against increasingly sophisticated and youthful attackers. Protecting resources in this dynamic landscape requires vigilance and innovation in our approach to cybersecurity.

What was a challenging strategic implementation you faced, and what did you learn?

One of my most challenging strategic implementations was embracing virtualisation. Back then, cloud computing was still in its infancy and scepticism was rampant. People were hesitant, often fearing the unknown and doubting its reliability due to limited knowledge and high costs. Yet we committed ourselves to learning and adapting. Through determination and innovation, we successfully rolled out a robust private, public, and hybrid cloud solution in record time. This experience taught me that persistence can turn scepticism into success!