Alumni Series #14

Meet Srivathsan R., Senior Director – Sales, Hitachi Digital Services

When Srivathsan R. joined the Crusaders Batch (PGPM 2006) at Great Lakes Institute of Management, he embarked on a journey that would shape his outlook on leadership, relationships, and purpose.

A Chemical Engineer from BITS Pilani, Srivathsan began his career at Honeywell, developing simulation software for the Oil & Gas sector. His decision to pursue the flagship PGPM program at Great Lakes became a defining turning point, broadening his horizons and helping him build strong professional networks and lifelong friendships.

As one of the early members of the Great Lakes community, he developed a deep sense of ownership and commitment to the institute’s growth, contributing actively to its brand-building and alumni engagement initiatives over the years.

Two lessons from Dr. Bala V. Balachandran have guided Srivathsan throughout his career:

- “Your network is your net worth.”

- “In every negotiation, always leave something on the table for the other person, you’ll be surprised by what you get back manifold.”

These timeless insights became the foundation of his professional success in sales and business development.

The Karma Yoga course at Great Lakes also left a lasting impression, teaching him selfless service (nissw?rth sev?), detachment from outcomes (nishk?mya karm?), and balance in success and failure (sthithapragny?), principles that continue to guide his life and work.

Over the years, Srivathsan has held diverse leadership roles across sales, business development, GTM strategy, alliances, and marketing in the IT services industry.

He currently serves as Senior Director – Sales at Hitachi Digital Services, driving growth and go-to-market strategy for the organization.

Deeply rooted in the spirit of gratitude and giving back, he remains actively involved in several social initiatives. His 25-year association with the Foundation for Excellence (FFE), from being a scholarship recipient at BITS Pilani to serving as a Board Member of the FFE India Trust from 2022 to 2025, reflects his enduring commitment to education and empowerment. He continues to work with the trustees on fundraising initiatives and also volunteers with Sevabharathi Tamil Nadu, supporting causes in education, healthcare, rural development, and environmental conservation.

“True power is the positivity you radiate by empowering the powerless to create a lasting impact and help them realize their potential without expecting anything in return.”

Srivathsan’s journey beautifully embodies the Great Lakes values of gratitude, purpose, and service. Through his professional excellence and commitment to societal upliftment, he continues to exemplify leadership grounded in empathy and action.