“The truly adaptive and open-minded leadership team at FLAG has supported my cross-functional movement within the organisation, significantly enhancing my skill set. This has led to greater engagement and the optimal utilisation of my capabilities toward achieving functional objectives.”
Could you share some insights into your background and how you came to join FLAG?
After graduating in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering, I began my career in the telecom industry, working with organisations such as Reliance Communications, Tata Communications, and Vodafone India Ltd. before joining FLAG in April 2016.
Throughout this journey, I have gained experience across NOC operations, service delivery, feasibility and solution design, capacity management, and network planning. My time with these NLD players exposed me to large customer bases and huge network infrastructures, which has provided me with a strong foundation and a significant advantage in my role at FLAG.
How do you approach challenges and overcome obstacles in your work?
I view every challenge as an opportunity to learn something new and to apply both my technical expertise and my experience in people and relationship management to work toward the best possible solution. I prefer to focus on the desired outcome and then work backward to achieve it.
Additionally, I make it a point to discuss issues with my peer group and mentor, which often leads to better insights and faster problem-resolution techniques.
Is there a specific project or achievement at FLAG that you are particularly proud of?
There are many projects, but successful delivery of our new cable system IAX, where my team worked from scratch to complete the project in record time, gives me immense satisfaction in terms of personal achievement and team collaboration.
The second project I am particularly proud of is the ‘FEA Mumbai CLS Optimisation Activity.’ I personally stayed on-site for 12 hours a day during Christmas week and ensured that decommissioning work was completed just hours before the deadline. This effort earned me my first in-house award after eight long years with FLAG.
How has your role evolved since joining FLAG and how have you grown as a professional?
Joining FLAG marked my entry into the subsea world. My first role as a Delivery Manager leveraged my previous experience in a similar position and gave me a confident start, along with valuable exposure to the FLAG network across the globe.
This experience proved instrumental in my next role in Capacity Management, where it contributed to my growth and eventual promotion
My current profile in Network Planning and Engineering has given me an edge with all new skill set. It is also providing new insights in procurement, finance, vendor management.
The frequent site visits involved in project management have not only enabled me to add greater value to my contributions but have also given me valuable hands-on experience in field engineering — truly the cherry on top!
I also believe that my People First mindset has helped me create strong bond across the functions which gives me required support during critical stage of the projects.
Are there any mentors or individuals who had a significant impact on your career here?
I undoubtedly give credit to my mentor Ravindra Bajpai whose Ownership first attitude, superb technical knowledge and cost saving mind has helped me gaining a lot more in short time.
He is very instrumental in providing full support during challenging work assignment, and it’s execution.
I am also thankful to KVR Srinivas for standing with me during my journey here.
My smart and hardworking teammates in Engineering, TSG, TAC have boosted my energy and enthusiasm towards work. Their collaborative approach always helps us complete many complex projects with much ease and helps the organisation in every possible way.
This positive attitude around me inspires me in providing unwavering support to the individuals who need it irrespective of their department/function.
What advice would you offer to new employees or those who are striving to excel their careers at FLAG?
My sincere advice to all new joiners—and especially to freshers—is to keep your passion for learning alive. Whether it’s a technical skill, a new technology, or anything that contributes to your personal development, continuous learning builds a habit of self-improvement and helps you maintain a positive outlook.
Secondly, make the most of the guidance and mentorship available from experienced colleagues. The small team structure at FLAG makes this access easy and valuable—something that’s often hard to find in larger organisations.
And lastly, avoid measuring everything solely in terms of money—there is always something beyond it!
