“My leadership isn’t defined by role or hierarchy, but by credibility, consistency, and the enduring impact my decisions create.”
Could you share some insights into your background and how you came to join FLAG?
I have over 23 years of experience in the telecom industry, with my journey at FLAG beginning in 2005. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to grow across diverse roles—from PW Coordinator and Data Engineer to Service Delivery, leading the Network Service Support Group, heading the PW team, and now leading FLAG Network Operations. FLAG stood out to me because of its global footprint and the opportunity to work on infrastructure that quite literally connects the world. This journey has been about embracing change, staying resilient through transformation, and continuously evolving alongside the business—all while remaining committed to operational excellence and customer experience.
What motivates you in your role at FLAG, and how do you maintain your inspiration?
What motivates me most is FLAG’s commitment to excellence and the responsibility that comes with running a Global Network Operation (GNOC). What fascinates me about GNOC is its dynamic nature. No two days are the same, yet every day is driven by a single purpose—tackling complex challenges to keep global connectivity moving. It’s demanding but deeply rewarding. Knowing that our work directly impacts customers, partners and vendors keep me focused and accountable. I stay inspired by remaining closely connected with the team, acknowledging achievements, continuously learning, and ensuring our everyday actions align with FLAG’s values — Customer Focus, People Focus, Ownership and Growth Mindset.
Is there a specific project or achievement at FLAG that you are particularly proud of?
I feel deeply connected to FLAG’s evolution— from FLAG to Reliance Globalcom, then Global Cloud Xchange, GCX World, and now back to FLAG. Over the past two decades, being part of this journey of continuous transformation has been incredibly fulfilling. I’m especially satisfied by the initiatives that strengthened our operational maturity—through service management improvements, ISO certification readiness, and enhanced cross‑team collaboration. These efforts went beyond process or compliance; they built clarity, consistency, and confidence for both our customers and our teams. This journey reflects FLAG’s commitment to lasting excellence—through strong systems, empowered people, and continuous progress.
How do you approach challenges and overcome obstacles in your work?
Challenges are best addressed through ownership, transparency, and teamwork. I focus on understanding the root cause, engaging the right expertise, and aligning stakeholders early. At FLAG, complex challenges are best solved by working together and communicating openly. I also believe in learning from setbacks and using those lessons to improve how we work going forward.
Who has had the biggest impact on your journey at FLAG, and how have they influenced you?
I owe a great deal of my growth to the people who believed in me and guided me along the way. I am deeply grateful to my mentor and leader, Mr. Anurag Joshi, with whom I began my journey at FLAG. His guidance in the early stages of my career—his leadership style, knowledge, and high standards—played a defining role in shaping me into a focused professional and confident leader. He inspired me to continuously raise my own bar and strive for excellence every day.
I would also like to sincerely acknowledge Mr. Mani Sastry, whose mentorship and insights have been equally influential in my journey. And finally, I am thankful to every individual who has crossed paths with me over the years—each interaction, lesson, and collaboration has contributed to who I am today.
The person I am today is a reflection of the many hands that guided me, shaped me, walked beside me, and believed in me—and for that, I remain profoundly grateful and thankful to every one of them.
What advice would you offer to new employees or those striving to excel in their careers at FLAG?
FLAG offers immense learning opportunities, but success comes from being proactive, asking questions, and understanding how your work contributes to FLAG’s vision. Take ownership of your role, stay curious, and build strong relationships, act with integrity, and don’t hesitate to take initiative. At FLAG, excellence is achieved through consistency, collaboration, and continuous learning mindset.
What impact do you hope your work will have in the long run?
In the long run, I hope my work helps build strong, AI‑enabled operations that are ready for the future, along with a culture where people feel empowered, responsible, and proud of their work. If the teams I have worked with are more confident and better prepared for what’s ahead, I would see that as meaningful legacy. Ultimately, I want to leave behind stronger teams, improved systems, and a positive impact on how we serve our customers and support FLAG’s long‑term goals.