Leaders

Malini T A: Standing At The Forefront To Lead Businesses Unlock Innovation & Productivity

Malini T A
Vice President, Virtusa

Aforward-thinking leader in today’s contemporary evolving world driven by technology and changing trends, is ideally fit to motivate and encourage others to go beyond the usual limits, proposing new ideas and developments. Malini T A is a true example of such effective leadership, who strives to bring change taking the road less taken. As a business leader with a strong track record in leading IT & business transformations across domains like Telecom, Healthcare & Life Sciences, and Insurance, her journey quite sums up with the quote that goes: "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by”, from a poem titled, “The Road Not Taken,” by the American poet, Robert Frost. This only thing has made all the difference for her.

Malini T A, Vice President, Virtusa, has worked with different organizations to build business strategies and create sustainable value-based outcomes, leveraging the right mix of innovative products, technologies & services. With a remarkable career spanning near to two decades, Malini has established herself as an exceptional leader who is customer-obsessed and has an in-depth understanding of her clients' business and landscape. Below is an excerpt of Malini’s exclusive interaction with Women Entrepreneurs Review magazine.

Tell us about your expansive professional journey in the IT and business transformation space. What are some key areas of expertise that you have developed as a business leader over the years?

I am a Computer science and engineering graduate from Anna University, Chennai. However, in addition to my degree, I have pursued various relevant certifications to enhance my technical and leadership skills throughout my career in different organizations. Coming from a small town, my family instilled in me the values of independent thinking and freedom of choice, which have profoundly influenced my work ethic. I am committed to fostering a work environment that embraces diversity, and openness, and values different ideas, as I believe the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

As a business leader, my priority is to create high-performing teams and drive business to achieve meaningful outcomes. I have transitioned from technical roles in India to impactful positions in the UK, gaining diverse experiences that have shaped me into a more effective leader. Navigating cultural differences and effectively communicating with diverse groups have been essential to my leadership journey. I aim to create an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard, making me a better leader.

Introduce us to Virtusa. Tell us about the various responsibilities you shoulder as a Vice President at the firm.

Virtusa is a digital engineering and transformation organization that provides IT services across various industries. Clients choose Virtusa for its expertise in new technology, innovative solutions, and digital engineering. We help businesses leverage emerging technologies to streamline operations, improve customer experiences, and drive growth. With a proven track record, we collaborate with over 200 companies in various global industries (including banking and financial services, insurance, media and telecommunications, technology, health and life sciences, among others), providing more than just low-cost technology solutions. Our mission is to help clients develop digitally infused products and services that guarantee satisfaction and drive growth, serving as the driving force behind their success.

I Advocate Leading From The Front & Having A Growth Mindset To Build Sustainable Business In This Dynamic & Challenging Times

My current role involves driving growth in the life sciences and healthcare segment in this region. When I first started, this segment didn't exist here, so I've been responsible for creating and developing it. I work with pharmaceutical, medical device, and health tech organizations to understand their business problems and leverage technology to solve them. I also advocate for and mentor our talent workforce, particularly women leaders, and lead various employee initiatives. In jest, think of me as a squeaky wheel leading to explosive business growth for the organization.

In your opinion what are some of the most critical challenges you encounter in your current role? What steps do you undertake to overcome these roadblocks?

I can categorize the top challenges into three main areas. The first challenge is about identifying new revenue streams and business channels for growth. The second challenge comes from working in IT technology services, focusing on building high-performing teams. Navigating uncertainties, especially during the COVID pandemic, was a significant challenge impacting the life sciences industry and workforce dynamics. Adapting to changes such as remote and hybrid working, and witnessing rapid advancements in technology and vaccine development, were part of the unpredictable landscape of uncertainties. Well, Scuba diving one of my hobbies has significantly influenced my leadership skills, teaching me to conquer fear, trust others, be mindful, and find joy in discoveries.

Throw light on the most significant professional milestones of your professional journey. What has your success mantra been over the years?

Sheryl Sandberg once quoted, ‘There is no perfect fit when you're looking for the next big thing to do. You have to take opportunities and make an opportunity fit for you, rather than the other way around. The ability to learn is the most important quality a leader can have’.

I kind of relate to this. The decisions I've made and the outcomes that followed, moving between industries itself was a major achievement. Creating a new business stream in a completely different region & segment, such as life sciences, was also a significant accomplishment. Transitioning from a delivery role in the IT industry to impactful business roles and relocating from India to the UK were also significant professional milestones for me.

For my success mantra, I would say that I totally believe that the answer lies in quantum physics. Your vibe attracts your tribe. Your energy to start, to do, and to achieve makes all the difference. Be authentic and that will attract success.

A piece of advice you would like to give to aspiring women entrepreneurs or business leaders?

To be honest, I am quite moved by Indra Nooyi. She emphasizes the importance of being bold and courageous, especially for women, and the need for continuous development. She advises never to settle, always aim higher, keep honing skills, and speak up to learn and grow. And, I truly strive to live by it and suggest the same. Additionally I would recommend to surround yourself with top M.A.R.C.S – Mentors, Allys, Role Models, Coaches and Sponsors!

Malini T A, Vice President, Virtusa

Malini T A is an experienced IT & business transformation leader across industries such as Healthcare & Life Sciences, Telecom, and Insurance. Over her two-decade professional journey, Malini has worked with organizations to build business strategies and create sustainable growth & value-based outcomes, leveraging the right mix of innovative products, technologies & services.