I remain at the forefront of technological advancements.
This is an exclusive interview series conducted by the Editor Team of CIO News with Shankar Venkatesan, Head IT & InfoSec (DGM) at Avalon Technologies Limited.
How did you plan your career path to be a successful technology leader?
In 1995, I embarked on my professional journey as a hardware support person. From the very beginning, I recognized the importance of being an easy and quick learner. This attribute, combined with my natural curiosity, allowed me to constantly observe my surroundings and ask insightful questions, which significantly contributed to my growth.
Embracing Lifelong Learning: One of the core principles that guided my career was the commitment to lifelong learning. Early in my career, I realized that the technology landscape is in a constant state of flux. What was cutting-edge one year could become obsolete the next. This understanding drove me to continually seek new knowledge and skills. This understanding led me to adopt the motto “learn, unlearn, and relearn.” Even though I have been with the same company, Avalon Group, for the past 22 years, I made it a point to continually seek out new knowledge and skills. This approach has kept me agile and adaptable, ensuring that I remain at the forefront of technological advancements.
Leveraging Professional Networks: Another crucial aspect of my career development has been my involvement in professional communities, particularly with CIOs and CISOs. Meeting and networking with these professionals provided me with invaluable insights and support. The CIO and CISO communities played a significant role in my transition from a hardware support role to my current position at Avalon.
What challenges did you face in your career path, and how did you overcome them?
I began working with Intel 486 processors. Today, we are in the age of artificial intelligence and rapid technological advancements. Keeping up with this pace has been a continual challenge.
Everyone has their weaknesses, and for me, communication was one of them. Early in my career, I found it challenging to articulate my thoughts effectively. To overcome this, I made a conscious effort to engage in conversations with colleagues, seek feedback, and surround myself with positive-minded individuals who encouraged and supported my growth.
Mingling with Youth and Raw Talent: Another significant challenge was mingling with, retaining, and motivating young and raw talent. The generational gap can often lead to misunderstandings and different work styles. I tackled this by actively engaging with younger team members, learning from their fresh perspectives, and incorporating their innovative ideas into our projects.
Upgrade legacy systems while minimizing disruptions was a significant challenge. Balancing the need for modernization with the stability of existing operations required careful planning and execution. Devised a phased implementation strategy for upgrading legacy systems. This approach involved careful planning, pilot testing, and incremental rollouts to ensure minimal disruption to ongoing operations. By involving key stakeholders in the process and providing thorough training, he ensured a smooth transition and long-term success.
Cybersecurity Threats: The ever-growing landscape of cybersecurity threats posed a constant challenge. Ensuring robust security measures while staying ahead of potential threats required continuous vigilance and proactive measures. I adopted a proactive approach to cybersecurity, emphasizing that security is a continual process, not a one-time solution. Implemented comprehensive security protocols, conducted regular audits, and stayed informed about emerging threats. Resilience, adaptability, and commitment to continuous learning enabled me to navigate these challenges successfully.
What are the challenges faced by IT leaders today while implementing digital technologies?
Implementing digital technologies in today’s fast-paced environment presents several challenges for IT leaders. One of the primary challenges is change management. Implementing new digital technologies often requires a shift in the organization’s culture, processes, and workflows. Employees may resist change due to a lack of understanding or fear of the unknown. IT leaders must develop comprehensive change management strategies, including clear communication, training programs, and support systems, to ensure a smooth transition.
While innovation is important, maintaining the stability and reliability of existing systems is equally crucial. Striking the right balance between adopting new technologies and ensuring the smooth operation of current systems can be challenging. IT leaders should adopt a balanced approach, giving priority to critical innovations while ensuring the stability of existing systems. Clear priorities and timelines can help manage this balance effectively. Robust testing and quality assurance processes can minimize risks associated with new technology adoption.
Cybersecurity remains a top concern for IT leaders. The threat landscape is continually evolving, with hackers becoming more sophisticated and persistent. Unlike other areas where a single solution might suffice, cybersecurity is an ongoing process. IT leaders must implement comprehensive security measures, regularly update protocols, and stay vigilant against emerging threats. A significant challenge is that while hackers need only a small opportunity to breach security, CISOs must ensure that their defenses are robust and infallible.
Stakeholders often have high expectations regarding the benefits and outcomes of digital technologies. Managing these expectations while delivering tangible results can be challenging. Clear and transparent communication is key. IT leaders should set realistic expectations and provide regular updates on progress. Demonstrating quick wins and incremental improvements can build trust and maintain stakeholder support. Involving stakeholders in the planning and implementation process helps align expectations with achievable outcomes.
Attracting and retaining skilled talent is another major challenge. The rapid evolution of technology means that the demand for specialized skills is high, and competition for top talent is fierce. IT leaders must create a compelling value proposition for potential hires, offering opportunities for growth, competitive compensation, and a positive work environment.
Any best practices, industry trends, or advice you would like to suggest to fellow technology leaders for their successful professional journeys?
Industry Trends
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning are increasingly used to automate processes, enhance decision-making, and improve operational efficiency. These technologies enable more personalized user experiences and insights.
Cloud Computing & Security: Cloud services offer scalable solutions that can adapt to changing business needs and support remote work. The cybersecurity landscape is evolving with more sophisticated threats, requiring advanced protection strategies.
Be prepared to pivot and adapt your strategies in response to changing market conditions and technological advancements. Build and maintain relationships with industry peers, vendors, and thought leaders to stay informed and gain valuable insights. Regularly assess the impact of your technology initiatives and adjust your strategies as needed to achieve desired outcomes.
Embracing continuous learning, fostering innovation, prioritizing cybersecurity, and focusing on strategic goals are key to thriving in the ever-evolving technology landscape.
About Shankar Venkatesan
Shankar’s journey in technology began in 1995, when he started as a hardware support person. From the outset, he was driven by a keen curiosity and a passion for learning. Shankar has a BTech in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) and a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA). Over the years, he pursued various certifications, including ITIL, CEH, CISM, CISA, and CDPSE, demonstrating his commitment to professional growth. His story serves as a testament to the value of never stopping learning, creativity, and meeting obstacles head-on. Aspiring technological executives can draw inspiration from Shankar’s professional path.
Also read: Unveiling the Ethical Imperatives: Navigating the Intersection of AI and Cybersecurity
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