What tech leaders are saying about their role models

The impact of a role model goes beyond just mentoring — it's about inspiring transformative ideas, instilling strong values, and leading the path for future innovation. Role models shape how we think, act, and perceive the world in every walk of life, especially in the fast-changing and dynamic technology industry. TechCircle spoke to some leaders in the technology industry who explained how their role models have significantly influenced their leadership styles and philosophies.

Prafulla Somani, global director of tech compliance at AB Inbev GCC India, stated that when he considers a role model, there is no one other than the visionary Ratan Tata that comes to mind. "Tata has become a prominent figure in the business world, transforming the conglomerate into a global powerhouse. His remarkable journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs," he said.

Somani believes that one of the most admirable examples is Tata's ambitious endeavour to create the world's most affordable car, the Nano project. Initially conceived as a game-changer for the automotive industry, it faced obstacles related to production costs, manufacturing delays, and unforeseen technical issues. Despite the challenges, Tata's accomplishments were remarkable and had a lasting impact on the industry.

Furthermore, by embracing innovation and empowering employees, Tata has fostered a culture of excellence and inclusivity. In addition to excelling in the business world, his philanthropic efforts have had a lasting impact on society. "Ratan Tata's commitment to ethical leadership is a guiding principle for me. His ability to develop numerous leaders who led the group to great heights, all while upholding strong moral values in the corporate world, sets a standard for ethical leadership that I aim to emulate," he said.

Hyther Nizam, Vice President of Product Management at Zoho Corp., leads the management of numerous products, including the low-code platform Zoho Creator and the online spreadsheet Zoho Sheet also shares his insight. He also spearheads efforts for Zoho's scripting language, Deluge, and considers the tech icon Steve Jobs his role model.

Nizam believes that Jobs hired the right people, trusted them to perform, and always prioritised people over technology to achieve the best results. Jobs inspired excellence by practicing humility, focus, and fostering a culture of deep collaboration.

At Zoho, Nizam diligently follows Jobs' philosophy of putting people first, which is ingrained in the company's core culture. Coming from a technology background, Nizam started his career as a programmer and later transitioned to handling multiple products as a product manager. When he took on the role of heading the MEA region for Zoho, he applied Jobs' lesson on effective communication.

Nizam emphasises the importance of marketing by articulating values clearly and ensuring consistency in messaging and communication with customers and the market. Jobs' emphasis on design and customer experience has also influenced Nizam's approach to product development.

Raja Jamalamadaka — Managing Director, Roche Information Solutions India Pvt. Ltd. said bestselling author and TED legend Simon Sinek is his role model. “His engaging storytelling skills makes leadership a logically convincing and a very accessible subject. Sinek's authentic and transparent communication style is something I aspire to embody in my talks and in everyday life too,” he said adding that his ability to walk his talk is a big part of why I find him inspirational, and I try to put it to use for the larger good of my teams.

Inspiration can often be found right under our noses, without the need to search far and wide. Shanti Kurupati, a senior Director at Intuit believes her role model is Saurabh Saxena, the company’s India Site Leader & Senior Vice President, of GTM Technology.

“In my career journey, I have had the privilege of being inspired and motivated by several role models, Saurabh Saxena being one of them,” she said, adding that “among the qualities I admire most in these individuals have been transparency, authenticity, and clarity”.

Kurupati believes transparency is crucial for effective leadership. It involves honesty, openness, and authenticity when communicating with colleagues. Transparency builds trust and fosters growth in the workplace. Clear communication is also important to prevent misunderstandings and unite everyone towards common goals.

Inspired by Saurabh Saxena, Kurupati understands the value of vulnerability as a leader. “Transparent leaders earn respect and create a strong team culture. They are open about their struggles and promote mutual understanding. This environment encourages individuals to seek assistance and acknowledge their weaknesses,” she said.

Jagmeet Singh Malhotra, Director, Technology Platform Lead, NatWest Group also believes the company’s Global Head of Core Trading Solutions Anurag Vohra has been his role model.

“I deeply admire his coaching and counselling skills at leadership level, and his passion for innovation and simplification. When I was newly hired and put forward my concern about delivering high-profile initiatives through a junior team, his advice to me was "You go to war with the army you have, not with the army you want,” he recalled.

Through my career journey, Anurag has shaped my leadership style with his focus on nurturing good ideas and starting small in the face of budget constraints, said Malhotra.

Research shows that having a role model or a leader mentor can not only boost self-efficacy but also make one a potential leader. Albert Bandura, an influential social cognitive psychologist defines self-efficacy as a person's belief in their ability to complete a task or achieve a goal.

Role models, according to him help boost a person's confidence in themselves to control their behaviour, exert an influence over their environment, and stay motivated in the pursuit of their goal.

Sarita Bahl is a certified coach from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) mentions in a blog post published in June, that business leaders need to choose their role models with care. Her advice: “Find one that teaches you to never give up and build your resilience in your job. Look out for someone who is focused on creating a difference in other people’s lives. Or the one who can help you find yourself and identify your strengths.”