Naveen Naidu Recognized among Top 10 NIT Rourkela Alumni Leaders – 2025

As an alumnus of NIT Rourkela, could you share the most valuable lessons you gained during your education and how they have shaped your career?

During my time at NIT Rourkela, the most valuable lesson I learned was stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing a research and innovation-driven mindset. Coming from a B.Tech (CSIT) background, NIT Rourkela’s rigorous academic environment pushed me to think critically, solve complex problems, and explore new technologies. This research-oriented approach fostered creativity and innovation, which has been pivotal in shaping my career.

The hands-on research experience, including publishing IEEE journals, gave me a deep understanding of the Telecom industry. This has been invaluable in helping me tackle complex challenges in the evolving Telecom, Cable & ISP, and IoT landscape.

Please share some memories which stand out to you the most from your experiences at the institute.

Beyond academics, the most enriching experience at NIT Rourkela was the opportunity to connect with people from diverse regions and cultures. The campus was a vibrant mix of backgrounds, and interacting with such a varied group of students gave me invaluable perspectives. The friendships I formed went beyond coursework, as they were rooted in teamwork, collaboration, and shared experiences. Whether through working on projects, participating in sports, or engaging in campus events, these interactions instilled in me the importance of diversity, unity, and mutual respect.

Can you share your leadership approach and the key guidelines, methodologies, or values you follow in your current role?

"Don't waste your time chasing butterflies. Mend your garden, and the butterflies will come."

My leadership approach is grounded in this philosophy by Mario Quintana. Rather than chasing opportunities, I believe in building a skilled, capable team and creating valuable solutions that naturally attract opportunities. This approach helps us focus on what truly matters, creating value first.

I encourage my team to take ownership of their work and provide them with the trust and autonomy to deliver. I avoid micromanaging, instead ensuring that my team has the resources, support, and skill sets needed to succeed. A leader can only be as effective as the resources provided to their team.

Where do you see yourself in the long-term of your professional journey?

My long-term vision is to significantly contribute to the economic growth of our country by establishing a Global Capability Center (GCC) hub. This hub will serve as a catalyst for innovation, create high-value jobs, and drive the widespread adoption of advanced AI technologies and digital transformation across industries, positioning us at the forefront of global progress.