In the field of data-driven innovation, Hari Saravanabhavan stands as a trailblazer, shaping the future of technology services with a formidable blend of strategic acumen and technical expertise. As Vice President of Global Analytics at Concentrix, Hari brings over 25 years of visionary leadership in Data Science, Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Hari’s journey into the realm of data and analytics began with a profound curiosity about how these disciplines could revolutionize everyday business operations. Starting from a business background, he swiftly immersed himself in the tech services industry, where he honed his skills in business intelligence and insights. Over the years, his career trajectory has seamlessly progressed to encompass advanced analytics and the transformative power of AI, including cutting-edge applications in Generative AI.
At Concentrix, Hari spearheads the global Data and Analytics practice, driving the development and delivery of innovative analytics solutions that redefine digital transformation for clients worldwide. His strategic initiatives not only elevate Concentrix’s analytics capabilities but also position the company at the forefront of technological innovation in customer experience and operational efficiency.
Beyond his role at Concentrix, Hari is deeply committed to continuous learning and personal growth. He remains actively engaged with the latest developments in technology and business, ensuring that his insights are always at the cutting edge of industry trends. Hari’s dedication extends to mentoring young professionals and serving on multiple Data and Analytics councils, where he contributes his expertise to shape the future of the field.
As a thought leader and AI evangelist, Hari Saravanabhavan exemplifies the transformative potential of Data Science and AI in driving organizational success and fostering innovation. His journey from business intelligence to leading global analytics practices underscores his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the digital era. In a world increasingly defined by data, Hari’s visionary leadership continues to inspire and set new benchmarks for excellence in analytics and AI-driven solutions.
Below are highlights of the interview conducted between World’s Leaders and Hari Saravanabhavan:
Tell us about the inception of the company. How did it all start?
Since our founding more than 20 years ago, we have transformed from a small startup into a global technology and services industry leader, renowned for innovation and challenging the status quo. Our evolution is marked by strategic investments and groundbreaking advancements in customer engagement:
– Grown from 1,800 staff in 2004 to approximately 440,000 today.
– Strategic investments in companies like Tigerspike, ServiceSource, Minacs, and Convergys.
– Innovations in security automation, digital insights platforms, and AI technology.
– Significant acquisitions, including Convergys in 2018 and PK in 2021.
– Recent combination with Webhelp to enhance global tech capabilities and customer experience solutions.
Our journey reflects a steadfast commitment to disruptive technology and bold thinking, cementing our position as a powerhouse in the customer experience industry.
What has made you successful? What do you value?
Success is a relative term, presenting itself in many forms such as practice growth, personal elevation, and team advancement. Nevertheless, there are several principles I consider crucial for achieving success:
Striking the Right Balance – Achieving balance is essential. Some key areas I focus on include:
– Strategy vs. Execution Balance
– Work vs. Life Balance
– Tech vs. Functional Balance
– Need vs. Ask Balance
I often reflect on the saying, “Vision without action is a daydream, and action without vision is a nightmare.”
- Being Empathetic & Communicative – Empathy and communication are twin traits that bring out the best in people. They are most effective when used together.
- Being Authentic & Energizing – Authentic leadership fosters trust among stakeholders, teams, partners, and the external world. Coupled with an energizing attitude, it enables achievements that often seem impossible at the start.
Which are the major services of the company and how does the company get ahead in the competition? What value-added services does the company provide?
We’re the global technology and services leader that powers the world’s best brands. We design, build, and run fully integrated, end-to-end solutions at speed and scale across the entire enterprise, helping over 2,000 clients solve their toughest business challenges. Whether it’s designing game-changing brand experiences, building and scaling secure AI technologies, or running digital operations that deliver global consistency with a local touch, we have it covered. At the heart of what we do lies a commitment to transforming the way companies connect, interact, and grow across the world and into the future.
What are the most important aspects of a company’s culture? What principles do you believe in and how do you build this culture?
At Concentrix, our company culture is founded on several core aspects that drive our success and unify our global team:
Our vision is to be the greatest customer engagement company in the world, rich in diversity and talent – powered by creativity and technology. This is driven by our 3 Vs operating philosophy – Visibility, Velocity and Value.
We are not here for the status quo! We are changing the game in pursuit of excellence. We are fighting for better brand experiences. Championing our people. Acting with integrity. Collaborating constructively. Always with Exemplary Character! We win only when our clients win.
What is the significance of innovative ideas in the company?
Innovation is a key characteristic in our organization and a critical success factor at the enterprise, individual practice, and operational levels. It allows us to excel, differentiate, and drive transformation.
Give us your opinion on; do organizations rely heavily on individual heroics or team processes?
Successful organizations strike a balance between individual contributions and robust team processes, fostering collaboration and leveraging diverse skill sets to solve problems holistically.
At Concentrix, exemplary character and constructive collaboration are integral to our culture. We embody the principle of “One Team, One Company,” consciously balancing individual brilliance with collective effort.
What advice would you give someone going into a leadership position for the first time?
While every individual, organization, and role may have unique characteristics, here are a few suggestions for emerging professionals. Although not exhaustive, these tips can provide directional guidance:
1. Focus on the Why: In the midst of abundant data, cutting-edge techniques, and groundbreaking technology, it is crucial to continually ask, “What are we solving for?” Differentiating between the need and the ask is essential to maintain clarity and purpose.
2. Develop Techno-Functional Expertise: In our ever-evolving digital world, professionals are ultimately solving real problems. It’s important to understand both the functional dimensions and technical aspects of your work. Recognize that outputs differ from outcomes, requiring diligent leadership focus.
3. Get Hands-On: Engage deeply with the problem statement and the associated data. Many young professionals jump to solutions without thoroughly understanding the background or data stage. Know the situation and problem statement intimately. Respect the data before diving into solutioning and analysis.
4. Collaborate and Keep Learning: The proliferation of technology, changing business environments, and evolving digital expectations necessitate feedback and input from multiple sources. Collaboration is key to success. Additionally, as approaches to solving real-world problems rapidly evolve, lifelong learning becomes a critical trait for promising leaders.
5. Master Management and Communication: Emerging leaders must develop strong program management, governance, and communication skills. This blend of art and science is crucial for professional growth and should be a focal point for development.
6. Cultivate a Curious Mindset: Above all, emerging leaders should cultivate a curious mindset. Challenge the status quo, explore new paths, and orchestrate actionable solutions. Curiosity drives innovation and effective problem-solving.
