Technology, data science and talent leadership joins Sterlite to drive future of data networks

As Sterlite Tech, a global data network solutions company, continues its exponential growth, it is attracting some of the best talent in the world. In the last few quarters, the Company has recruited best-in-class technologists, scientists, strategists, marketers and sales leaders. It now announces the joining of four new leaders.

Dr. Jitendra Balakrishnan, Chief Technology Officer – Optical Communications, will drive the technology growth engine for Sterlite Tech’s optical communications products business.

“We are partnering with world-class academia and technology minds to design products for data centres, telcos, defence and rural broadband. We are innovating on technology solutions across the network stack, and I look forward to driving our product roadmap,” said Jitendra. “I see a sense of real purpose, energy and motivation in the corridors of Sterlite Tech, and am delighted to be a part of this fabulous team.”

Literally a rocket scientist, Jitendra holds a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering from IIT Madras and a Doctorate and Master’s in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from Cornell University. He brings a wealth of experience from his multiple roles in R&D at Corning over the last 18 years.

Dr. Ambica Rajagopal, Head of Data Science, brings immense knowledge in predictive analytics to Sterlite Tech. She will lead the Company’s advanced data and analytics function.

“Data is an infinite resource. When combined with intelligence, it can be extremely powerful. I look forward to using this potent combination to bring in efficiencies, revenue growth and customer pull,” said Ambica. “I am also excited to see Sterlite Tech’s commitment to closing the gender gap at all levels. Our senior leadership now has several women, and one of our key manufacturing process teams at the plant in Silvassa is a 100% women team.”

Ambica has a Doctorate in Mathematics from Purdue University and a Master’s in Mathematics from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani. She has led successful global data science practices in Fortune 500 companies, and has worked at Cummins, KPMG, RMS and Fidelity Investments.

Anjali Byce, Chief Human Resource Officer, is all set to lead Sterlitians as the Company disrupts its way to ‘transforming everyday living’. She has great plans to build capability and drive culture as the Company grows rapidly.

“We are building an agile and culturally strong global organisation. It is critical to do this in a structured way,” said Anjali. “Sterlitians have an immense sense of pride and are inspired to be the change. I am excited to join Sterlite Tech and build upon the great momentum we have set.”

Anjali is a seasoned HR professional with a fresh perspective. With over 18 years of experience, she has worked at Tata Motors, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance, Cummins, Thermax and SKF. She has a Master’s in Human Resources from the Symbiosis Centre for Management and HRD, and in Applied Psychology from the University of Delhi.

Manuj Desai, Head of Technology Transformation, is a key enabler in Sterlite Tech’s digital transformation journey. He will drive the information technology function to achieve scale, speed and effectiveness.

“Transformation is the synapse between technology and talent. This can have an amazing impact in bringing agility to any organisation. I am committed to driving this,” said Manuj.

Manuj has over 20+ years of experience in corporate development, product development, business operations and strategy. He has held senior positions in AIG, PayPal, Sprint Nextel, among others. He holds a Master’s from The George Washington University.