Describe your current role
in the organization.
I am responsible for managing several products within Zoho, including Zoho Notebook, a user-friendly note-taking application with an attractive design. Additionally, I oversee Solo, an all-in-one work tool designed for solopreneurs, as well as Zoho Doc Scanner, a comprehensive scanning application that caters to both—personal and business needs. Furthermore, I am in charge of Zoho Translate, a translation and conversation app that prioritizes privacy. I also head the dashboard team at Boson, an electric LUV manufacturing company invested in by Zoho. In addition to these responsibilities, I lead the developer and technology partnership between Zoho and Apple.
What role does Zoho’s company culture play in your identity and the work that you do?
I began my professional career as an engineer for an on-premise networking product under the ManageEngine division. I later transitioned to building products on the Zoho cloud. Currently, I am leading technology partnerships with large companies. In my experience, the best aspect of Zoho's culture is the encouragement to be yourself and the freedom to explore new ideas. Whether it's learning and adopting new technologies, creating products, or implementing different marketing strategies, I have always felt supported and comfortable at Zoho. The guidance and mentorship I have received have greatly contributed to my personal and professional growth.
What were the highest and lowest points of your journey with Zoho?
Every phase of my journey with Zoho has been filled with memorable moments. One particular highlight for me was receiving an award from the Member of Parliament and Union Minister of IT, India, for a product that my team developed. I was equally thrilled when our C-level executives recognized and praised our product, encouraging other teams to follow our lead in mobile strategies. It was a great joy to see my app appreciated for its design and featured by Apple in the App Store, a first for Zoho.
I felt disheartened when a few of my products were requested to be stopped or handed over to another team due to the restructuring of some departments based on market conditions. However, I strongly believe that there is always potential for improvement in any situation, and every failure provides valuable lessons for future endeavors.
Your most embarrassing blunder?
I don’t have any specific embarrassing blunders that come to mind, but I have made a few mistakes in the past. Making mistakes is not necessarily a problem as long as you learn from them, approach them with the right attitude, and take steps to correct them in future endeavors.
What are your hobbies or favorite
activities outside of work?
I am a passionate fan of cricket. Watching and playing cricket with my friends and colleagues is my favorite hobby and leisure activity outside of work. Exploring various destinations around the world with my family and friends is also something I greatly enjoy. When I have some free time alone, I like to listen to songs composed by the Indian film music composer, Ilaiyaraaja.
Words of Wisdom
Be ready. Develop a strategy. Take steps and attain success.
Cooperation and determination are crucial for any company to prosper.
Stay focused on long-term goals.
Be resilient.
Good health is valuable.
Contribute to society whenever possible.
It is imperative for a leader to embody the principles they advocate. It is important to refrain from being judgmental. Instead, create opportunities for your colleagues to flourish. Adopting a mindset that acknowledges individual setbacks but prioritizes collective accomplishments is key. Demonstrating accountability and taking ownership are essential qualities of effective leadership. Combine visionary thinking with a pragmatic approach to problem-solving. Allow yourself to be motivated and, in turn, inspire others through your dedication and achievements.