Wipro shakes up engineering division with Srikumar Rao’s new role

Wipro Limited has announced the appointment of Srikumar Rao as the new Global Head of its Engineering Edge Business Line, effective October 5, 2024. Rao succeeds Harmeet Chauhan, who is stepping down after a six-year tenure to explore new opportunities outside the company. Rao will report to Srini Pallia, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Wipro Limited.

Srikumar Rao: A Veteran’s Journey at Wipro

Srikumar Rao’s promotion marks a significant moment for Wipro, reflecting the company’s commitment to leveraging internal talent for its strategic leadership roles. Rao, who has been with Wipro for 26 years, has a distinguished career within the organization. His previous roles include Chief Operating Officer of Wipro Engineering Edge (WEE) and Global Practice Head of Embedded Systems. Rao’s extensive experience encompasses overseeing Engineering, Research, and Development (ER&D) services across diverse sectors such as Software & Internet, Semiconductor, Automotive, Manufacturing, and Communications.

Rao’s appointment is seen as a strategic move by Wipro to enhance its Engineering Edge business, which focuses on providing cutting-edge ER&D services. Under his leadership, the division is expected to further advance its capabilities in AI-first solutions and high-tech engineering services. Rao will be responsible for steering the growth strategy, aiming to expand Wipro’s market presence and reinforce its position as a leader in technological innovation.

Strategic Vision and Growth for Engineering Edge

In his new role, Rao will drive the vision and strategic direction for Wipro’s Engineering Edge Business Line. This includes the development of world-class products, solutions, and experiences that integrate artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. Rao’s leadership is anticipated to bolster Wipro’s competitive edge in the ER&D sector, leveraging his deep industry knowledge and client-centric approach.

Srini Pallia, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Wipro Limited, expressed confidence in Rao’s capabilities, stating, “Srikumar’s extensive journey within Wipro, from being a campus recruit to assuming multiple leadership roles, positions him as the ideal candidate for this role. His unwavering commitment, technological acumen, and client-focused strategy have significantly contributed to Wipro Engineering Edge’s success. Rao’s leadership has been pivotal in achieving top customer satisfaction scores and securing high-profile deals across various industries.”

Acknowledging the Transition

Pallia also acknowledged the contributions of Harmeet Chauhan, who has managed Wipro’s ER&D business over the past six years. Chauhan’s leadership was instrumental in navigating the business through a transformative period. Chauhan will continue in his role until October 4, 2024, working closely with Rao to ensure a seamless transition.

Srikumar Rao’s Vision and Industry Contributions

Srikumar Rao’s new role aligns with Wipro’s broader strategy to enhance its engineering capabilities and drive innovation. Rao is a prominent member of NASSCOM’s ER&D Executive Council, reflecting his influence and leadership in the industry. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering from the College of Engineering Pune and a Postgraduate Program in Software Enterprise Management from IIM Bangalore. Based in Bengaluru, India, Rao is expected to lead Wipro Engineering Edge into its next phase of growth and technological advancement.

Rao commented on his appointment, “I am honored to lead Wipro’s Engineering Edge Business Line and am excited about the opportunity to drive our strategic vision forward. Being part of Wipro’s transformative journey has been a source of immense pride, and I look forward to further strengthening our market presence and maximizing the value we deliver to our clients.”

Wipro’s appointment of Srikumar Rao as the Global Head of Engineering Edge Business Line underscores the company’s strategic focus on nurturing internal talent and enhancing its ER&D services. Rao’s extensive experience and proven leadership are expected to play a crucial role in driving Wipro’s innovation agenda and expanding its global footprint in the engineering domain.