10 Best CTOs in India 2024
Welcome to TradeFlock’s latest issue, “10 Best CTOs in India 2024,” where we celebrate the visionaries at the helm of technological innovation in the country. This edition shines a spotlight on India’s leading chief technology officers (CTOs) who drive the growth and success of their respective organisations and shape the future of India’s technology landscape. In this exclusive issue, we delve deep into the minds of these exceptional technology leaders in India through candid conversations that reveal their innovative strategies, unparalleled technology leadership, and the unique ways they navigate the ever-evolving challenges of their industries. From pioneering advancements in AI and machine learning to spearheading digital transformation initiatives, India’s best CTOs are at the forefront of technological excellence. Join us as we explore their journeys, uncover the secrets behind their success, and gain insights into how they significantly impact their organisations and the broader tech ecosystem. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, an industry professional, or simply curious about the future of technology in India, this edition promises to be an inspiring and enlightening read.
Amar Helonde has forged a remarkable career defined by resilience and innovation. His journey began in his family’s business, where he learned the importance of responsibility from a young age. With extensive experience in IT, including a pivotal role at TCS, he now leads Berar Finance’s digital transformation efforts. Amar’s leadership has been instrumental in modernising the company’s operations and driving significant growth.
Avinash Tompe is a visionary leader in the fintech sector, renowned for his ability to create scalable and transformative solutions. His journey began with recognising the limitations posed by outdated systems, prompting him to develop modular, AI-enhanced platforms that streamline the lending process. Under his leadership, Finexus has emerged as a pioneer in fintech innovation, setting new standards and advancing technology adoption within the industry.
Gurpreet is a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience driving technological innovation and enhancing information security. His strategic vision has transformed DiggFull into an industry leader by implementing digital transformation, advanced software development, and robust cloud computing solutions. Gurpreet’s passion for technology, which he sparked in his youth, has guided his career from being a computer instructor to a key role in IT leadership.
Kirti Patil is driving a transformative shift in the insurance industry by leveraging technology to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. With a background in computer engineering, Kirti has been pivotal in Kotak Life’s digital transformation, introducing innovations like KAYA, an AI-driven assistant, and adopting a “Mobile-First” and “API-First” strategy.Â
Lily Prasad is a trailblazer in food safety and technology. With her leadership, FSSAI has undergone a significant digital transformation, modernising its operations to improve food safety standards nationwide. With a technology management background and extensive software industry experience, Lily has driven initiatives that have revolutionised the regulatory environment, benefiting businesses and consumers.
Nelson brings 17 years of expertise in digital transformation across various sectors, including healthcare, FMCG, and education. His strength lies in his ability to listen and observe before taking action, enabling him to navigate complex regulatory environments and craft innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency. Nelson has successfully led key projects that drive growth and continuous improvement, including notable collaborations during the pandemic.
Ragunathan Balaji drives innovation in the retail trading sector through advanced cybersecurity, AI, and blockchain integration. Under his leadership, ICICIdirect has enhanced customer experience, improved transaction security, and embraced real-time data processing. Balaji’s strategic vision has positioned the company at the forefront of digital transformation in financial services.
Rijuraj believes technology should serve a greater purpose beyond merely managing IT systems. With over two decades of experience across various industries, he leverages his expertise to empower business productivity and drive operational excellence. Rijuraj fosters a culture of continuous improvement and forward-thinking, focusing on creating meaningful solutions that enable the company to thrive. His holistic vision positions technology as a catalyst for revenue growth and innovation.
Shyam Prabhakar Mardikar has been instrumental in advancing India’s telecom sector through strategic leadership and innovation. With a career spanning roles at C-DOT and Bharti Airtel, he has led network transformations and overseen one of the world’s fastest 5G rollouts. Under his leadership, Jio has expanded its 4G and 5G networks while integrating AI, ML, and proprietary technologies.
Dr. Vivek Rastogi has played a vital role in modernising the operations of a brand deeply rooted in tradition. When FabIndia faced significant technology challenges, such as outdated systems, fragmented data, and poor integration between its online and offline channels, Dr. Vivek turned these obstacles into opportunities for innovation. He streamlined operations and optimised inventory management by leveraging advanced data analytics, AI, and ML.Vishwanath Akuthota (Vish), a quantum and computer science researcher, has carved a unique path from a small-town background to entrepreneurship. Known for his relentless curiosity and innovative problem-solving, Vish founded Dr. Pinnacle, focusing on AI security to safeguard artificial intelligence models. His journey reflects a commitment to blending mathematical elegance with scientific advancement and creating secure, responsible technology.