Women leadership series - In conversations with Vadivambal P

How would you introduce yourself?

I lead the SAP Security Team at LTIMindtree and feel fortunate to be part of the IT industry, where opportunities are endless. With new technologies constantly emerging, there's always something exciting to explore and innovate!

Can you tell me a bit about your career journey? When did you first get into a leadership role?

I began my career in 2005, initially working on data collection before migrating it to SAP systems. When my lead transitioned out of the role, I stepped into the position of Basis and Security Consultant, quickly adapting to the ongoing project needs. With guidance from my new manager, I was able to refine my skills and elevate my expertise.

Within 3 to 4 years, I had the opportunity to take on a leadership role, overseeing SAP and DB installations, integrations of various SAP systems, and upgrades.

Being part of a small, dynamic team, we handled all facets of the project, from implementation and upgrades to support, security tasks, and audits. This holistic involvement allowed me to develop a well-rounded skill set in SAP.

Today, as a Senior Director at LTIMindtree, I look back on the long and rewarding journey that has brought me here.

What were the top challenges you faced during your journey and how did you overcome them?

I was entrusted with the responsibility of executing a complex system upgrade to the latest version, a significant and demanding task. Initially, I had doubts about my readiness, especially without any senior team members present and with the entire ownership of the project on my shoulders. However, the trust my team placed in me helped me push past those fears. I took the time to thoroughly prepare, conducting multiple trials, and with newfound confidence, I embraced the challenge and successfully completed the upgrade.

What motivates you?

Appreciation and recognition are powerful motivators. Being acknowledged for my contributions inspires me to continue giving my best. I thrive on tackling challenges, collaborating with a team to find innovative solutions, and contributing to something meaningful while witnessing the positive impact of our efforts.

Do you have a role model in your life? Can you name a few people who you look up to?

I consider all the leaders I've worked with as role models, as there’s always something valuable to learn from each of them. While the list is long, I’d like to highlight a few names: Sudhir Kumar Reddy, Ajay Mittal, Vijay Anand Gopal, Sathvik, and Maclean Josh. I deeply admire their communication skills, exceptional people management, and their commitment to going above and beyond to support the team.

What does leadership mean to you? How would you describe your leadership style?

Leadership is about guiding and inspiring others to achieve a common goal

If I were to describe my leadership style, it would be a blend of:

• Supportive: Offering encouragement, understanding, and guidance to help others grow and succeed.

• Visionary: Setting clear goals

• Collaborative: Encouraging teamwork. When people from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences collaborate, they bring unique ideas and solutions to the table

• Adaptable: Being flexible and open to change.

What would be your advice to young leaders?

Leadership qualities naturally emerge when you take ownership of your work. It's essential to build strong relationships and trust within the team, valuing their input when making decisions. Focus on both the team's growth and the deliverables, ensuring tasks are evenly distributed to maintain balance and efficiency