Intelligent CIO APAC Issue 49 | Page 79

Haran Shivanan , CEO , iviva
On the lighter side of things , we ask the industry experts what makes them tick . . . .

. . . GET TO KNOW . . .

Haran Shivanan , CEO , iviva

wWhat would you describe as your most memorable achievement ?

One achievement that stands out is when our platform got selected as the core city-wide smart platform for a major tourist destination in the Gulf .
Having the opportunity to oversee the successful digitisation and integration of systems in a large city was quite the challenge .
I found that , through technology , I had an outlet for my creativity , which has fostered my passion for improving lives and driving positive change .
What style of management philosophy do you employ with your current position ?
I believe that talented people should be allowed to fulfil their potential to contribute to wider business goals .
In spite of that , our team was able to direct an improvement in data management , increased engagement and stakeholder-led innovation , as well as enhanced customer visibility .
The fact that these results helped authorities realise more effective and efficient city management was a validation of the work we ’ ve been putting in for years .
What first made you think of a career in technology ?
Technology and putting things together have captivated me since I was seven , I couldn ’ t really imagine myself doing anything else . My father was a computer programmer back in the 80s and that , too , shaped my interest .
That ’ s why I see my main function as putting them in a position where they can flourish .
My style focuses on giving direction , providing room for experimentation , and most of all , empowering my people to take ownership . I find that this level of trust spurs teams to find solutions and work toward common objectives .
The breakthroughs we ’ ve already seen will likely pale in comparison to what will come in the future .
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