Putting adaptability to the test

Satish Pendse, CIO Hindustan Construction Company, relates his experiences while navigating across industries.

Satish Pendse

Pendse revisited old memories as he spoke about his journey through different industries. With a stint in FMCG, airlines and shipping to his name, Pendse started by talking of the importance of a CIO in every vertical. Stating an analogy to a pack of rummy cards, Pendse said, “The CIO is like the joker. He fits in to any set, be it spades, diamonds, clubs or hearts.” Light-hearted yet focussed Pendse came across as an individual who did not mind taking risks.

“Navigating across industries comes with a value proposition,” said Pendse. He was of the opinion that this increases the breadth of experience and gives the CIO a chance to make a difference. “The CIO is one person who is always on his toes,” he said. A significant observation made by Pendse was that when one jumps across industries, the guilt of joining hands with the competition is absent.

Speaking on what organisations get out of this process, he stated, “This gives organisations a chance to imbibe best practices from other industries.” Giving reasons for moving across industries he stated the example of Louis V Gerstner Jr. who transformed IBM when he made a shift to the IT industry from banking. Gerstner initially worked for American Express.

He listed the factors that one needs to look out for while changing jobs. “Identify the industry prospects over five years. Also, pay attention to what IT can offer to the business,” said Pendse. He spoke about the importance of the bottom up approach. He was of the opinion that one needs to focus more on the organisation, that is one should look at the culture of the organisation, the top management’s commitment to IT, the financial health of the company and the current status of IT in that company.

Pendse warned the audience about the initial hiccups, “I can describe the initial experience in just one word, ‘horrifying’!” He spoke of the different terminology used in various industries. Industry-specific jargon and terminology can prevent a new entrant from participating in discussions. This often leads to suspicion and cynicism among peers, bosses and juniors. When people want to disagree with an idea, the most convenient argument they use is that it does not work that way in the particular industry. “This leads to a feeling of isolation, loneliness and in turn dampens your confidence,” explained Pendse.

Although the initial curve might seem intimidating, the master gave suggestions for overcoming that. “Speak less and listen more,” said Pendse. He added that one needs to focus more on deliverables. He suggested taking three to six months to learn the basics of the business terminology and acronyms. Every business is interested in its bottom line and Pendse is of the opinion that when you join a new industry, you have to clearly understand how that industry makes money.

“You cannot learn about the business just sitting in your office,” said Pendse. He suggested that the CIO would get a better idea of the business if he or she visited the business locations and got a real-time feel of its operations process. He spoke on the importance of building formal and informal ties. “When in doubt, ask your team,” said Pendse. He said it was a good idea to leverage the business knowledge that’s available with the team.

He also suggested ways of fitting in to a new organisation. As an example he explained the use of language, “If people in the organisation converse in Hindi, it is important for you to avoid using English. It might not connect well with other employees.”

He spoke on the lessons he learnt, “Business fundamentals don’t change.” He added, “We are all Indians at the end of the day,” while highlighting the trait of being garrulous that most Indians possess, which is why it is vital to be a good listener. “Building credibility is vital,” he said. He was of the opinion that the CIO needs to deliver quick wins and follow through on the promises that he makes.

Pendse acknowledged the importance of softer aspects. He spoke of building relationships, and the importance of communication. “Your ego needs to be done away with,” he concluded.