Author: CIO Times

Lucas Sy is a Partner at Strategy& Germany, specializing in sovereign cloud and cyber strategies. With over ten years of consulting experience and 12 years as a cyber strategy officer in the German Armed Forces, Lucas is a renowned expert in advising government, defense, and IT organizations. 

He holds a master’s degree in business administration from Helmut-Schmidt University Hamburg and is an alumnus of the London School of Economics and the University of New South Wales Canberra. Lucas is dedicated to bridging the gap between digital transformation initiatives and cyber strategies, ensuring robust cloud resilience and cybersecurity.

Made for Leadership

Lucas has always been keen to learn how inspiring personalities have changed the world we are living in. For him, two of them are Albert Einstein and Katherine Johnson. Albert Einstein, the most famous scientist of the 20th century, transformed our understanding of the universe. Katherine Johnson was critical to the success of the Apollo Moon landing program, establishing the technology to meet international interests in space. Lucas’ family has always supported him in finding his own way of leadership.

Early in his career, when he joined the German Armed Forces in 2002, he assumed a leadership role as an officer. This was a time when the German Armed Forces opened up their career models more diversely, and Lucas is proud that he has contributed to shaping this inclusive leadership style alongside his comrades back in those days. The strong responsibility he held for his team during missions also shaped his leadership style during his later transition to the business world. 

Honing the Leadership Skills

Lucas suggests that to achieve business success as a leader, you need different types of qualities and backgrounds in your team. Hence, you must be able to combine these competencies for your business, clients or customer needs in the best way. For you as a leader, it is important to lead by example in exploring the teams’ strengths. This might involve re-engineering an existing business function in an imaginative way and then balancing the potential risk vs. the value for the project or firm. It might also include being more ‘adventurous’ e.g., by questioning an existing IT function with regards to disruptive technology. 

“In all cases, it involves the courage of your team to rethink established business constellations. At Strategy&, we create an environment where every voice is heard, encouraging open dialogue, and ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to contribute their best. Exchanging ideas between countries and regions is also important for maximizing the global benefit of local inventions. The global PwC network serves as an essential driver for this international collaboration,” he says.

An Effective Leadership Style

Lucas’ leadership style includes different elements which he has picked up over the years to help him and his team to work effectively. At the beginning of a new project, his style might be more stringent, with clear directions and a vision for where to take the client with the project. This is essential for bringing the team together and working towards a clear, common goal. In the area of strategy consulting and the rapidly changing cyber domain, they are often confronted with a pacesetting environment. 

Lucas’ team of driven and experienced colleagues consistently does their best to meet challenging deadlines. “Holding yourself and others to high standards only works if you can also create balance and provide compensation for these efforts. To this end, we regularly run lessons-learned sessions and identify areas for individual growth. I take time to evaluate the team’s and each individual’s development areas both over the course of a project and throughout the year,” he shares.

Overcoming Challenges

The biggest challenges might occur when fundamental disruptions affect your personal or business environment. For Lucas personally, this was the transition from being an officer of the German Armed Forces to working in the private sector. Having studied business management, it was clear to him that he needed to experience business demands across different industries. Although he started in business valuation, Lucas always kept in mind how best to apply his military experience from the cyber domain to a business context. 

A major business challenge for the company was the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. As everyday commerce was shut down in 2020, Strategy&’s clients quickly shifted their focus, switching to fully remote work or adjusting production significantly. “We saw this as a chance to explore new ways of working on our projects. In the post-pandemic reality, this experience became crucial for us and our clients to evaluate which changes were here to stay,” says Lucas.

Taking Risks

During the different stages of his career, Lucas has been confronted with many types of personal, operational, and business risks. He has learned from the military how to deal with operational risks, such as pre-thinking alternatives, the effects of your decision, or sensing your environment. The decision to leave the Armed Forces and start in the business sector was a significant risk for him personally. The motivation came from his passion for business strategy and his aim to fuse his military cyber know-how into new business approaches. He did not take this step without thinking of alternatives within the Armed Forces or the broader government ecosystem.

In the first years, Lucas was absorbing every learning from different industries and strategic approaches in the project work. Over the years he identified more and more where to support organizations within the public and defense sectors. 

“Due to increasing geopolitical turbulences, cyber resilience, and sovereign strategies became main global drivers for my clients, and I was able to combine the best of my experience from both worlds, military and business, helping them to succeed,” shares Lucas.

Motivating the Team

Lucas feels that understanding one’s team members’ long-term goals, for their personal and professional development, is key for reflecting aspirations and achievements and hence for providing adequate advice. Strategy& enables its team with dedicated training to work on their development needs and to grow everyone’s personal strengths, for example in advanced cybersecurity methodologies or strategic project management. Challenging strategy projects naturally lead to an intrinsic motivation of the team to help the client via well-proven as well as new and innovative approaches.

“Setting development goals with your team helps to effectively improve everyone’s potential. This can be set up as short-term (project-related), mid-term (fiscal-year focus), or long-term (perspective for the next 3 years). The more concrete the development plan is set up, the better we can work on each team member’s goals. Appreciating project and team success with an off-site activity furthermore helps us to reflect and generate team power for the next projects,” he shares.

Fostering an Innovative Work Culture

Lucas believes that a culture of innovation is fundamental to enabling new approaches in times of technological disruption. The transformative power of the digital era we are living in is enormous, and organizations must perform innovatively to keep up with that speed. Fostering Strategy&’s culture of innovation he pursues three main elements: an agile project management, an inclusive and diverse work setting, and a strong coaching and mentoring environment. 

Agile project management helps the company and its clients to evaluate an initiative faster, accelerate the team’s learning curve, and emphasize flexibility. Daily stand-up meetings and specific sprint reviews help the team with effective project management. In an inclusive and diverse working setting it is important to have the best expertise on board. Innovation is only possible by supporting a variety of viewpoints and perspectives to create new approaches and eventually achieve improved business results. 

“Embracing the unique perspectives in my team is essential to encourage creative thinking and problem-solving. We have a well-established mentoring and coaching program for the team. This helps to quickly participate from others’ experiences and integrate smoothly into different project settings,” explains Lucas.

Balancing Business and Other Aspects

Lucas concurs that the fast-paced strategy consulting business requires a lot of energy. The more important it is to find ways to refuel this energy. He spends his free time with his wife and three kids. While he does certainly enjoy this, it can also be quite demanding. Especially with regard to the unique learning needs of every child. 

“Supporting your children’s education is about developing skills that will help them become better decision-makers, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers. Another joyful  way for me to spend my “quality time” is a joint sports interest, for example, skiing during the winter holidays. But it can also be a simple hide-and-seek game with the small toddler, which often helps to switch your focus. A passion that I do not (yet) share with my children is good coffee. This is an essential ingredient for every type of day. Good days become even better with coffee, at bad days you have had at least a good coffee,” says Lucas.

Mentoring Young Leaders

Mentorship always has been key in Lucas’ leadership journey. In the Armed Forces, this has been fostered through a strong connection between the graduate classes in the officers’ academy and university. He learned early on how to engage the next generation of leaders and guided selected mentees during their military careers. Also, in the business sector mentorship is an important function. 

Strategy& has a mentorship program where everyone has two mentors: a junior and a senior mentor. The junior mentor supports daily project life and more operational needs, whereas the senior mentor is an important anchor for career development and sponsoring of the mentee’s strengths for successful positioning in the firm. Lucas is using his role as (senior) mentor to support his mentees’ career plan by critically reflecting on their self-assessment in both ways, over- and underestimation. They work throughout the mentorship on re-calibrating potential self-biases. “There are many great people in my team, who have the potential to excel at something. Through active mentorship we work together in achieving this individual excellence,” says Lucas.

Gearing Up for Goals

At Strategy& Lucas has built up a team with expertise in sovereign cloud and cyber strategies. With its strong PwC network, Strategy& can support its clients along the entire cloud and cyber value chain, from sovereign strategy to cyber operations. 

Focusing on the public sector, Lucas’ goal is to further support Strategy&’s trusted clients in their ambitions towards sovereign cloud and cyber initiatives. Especially in Europe, but also in other territories, the requirements for sovereign solutions will stay a hot topic within the next years. His focus on solving strategic challenges will help his clients to update their cyber defense strategy in light of increasing needs for their resilience in turbulent times, and to create strategic sovereignty through secure cloud strategy and transition. 

“I will continue to link the necessary knowledge through my client and the firm’s network to drive forward our new approaches and anchor their strategic relevance. I empower my team with a special skillset and inspire them for my endeavor by further strengthening a culture of trust,” concludes Lucas.

Life’s Lessons

Summing up the most important lessons he has learned throughout his career, Lucas says:

“Motivate others, trust yourself, and team up for innovation. Innovation comes from your intrinsic ability to re-think an approach, a client project, or your own situation. During extreme (training) situations at the Armed Forces, there were days when you thought there was not much energy left, however, we were trained how to steer yourself through this low and raise your energy level. It is not just about being optimistic; it is enabling you to power up. Trusting yourself is essential for bringing this power into action. When I left the Armed Forces and continued my career in the private sector, I was asked by many colleagues if this was fulfilling me, changing from field suit to business suit: The answer is yes, because I wanted to expand my business knowledge and gain experience quickly – transferring military assessment into business valuation. Additionally, teaming up was essential for me in shaping my way to lead. Teamwork provides an opportunity for both personal and professional growth. The effects of collaborative efforts and enthusiasm are significant.”

Message for Aspiring Business Leaders 

Lucas’ message for aspiring business leaders is:

“First, it is important to know and trust your strengths. This will also help to identify your own areas of development needs. Establish a strong network of peers to stay connected over different phases of your personal career. The further you advance in your career, the more you can benefit from this network. You should also expand this over the years with trusted clients. This will help you to solve problems with allegedly non-connected areas of expertise. Setting up your own goals is as important as setting up team goals and defining how you can divide and conquer business aspirations. Practice and repetition will help to expand your own range of leadership varieties. Stay humble with your team in each of your career steps, however, actively steer your own career and professional development with your superiors.”

 

Phuong Tran (Alex Phuong Tran) is the visionary founder and CEO of ExtendMax Vietnam Co., Ltd. With over 20 years of experience in executive management, Phuong has established himself as a leading authority in market access and regulatory compliance for information technology equipment in Vietnam. Under his leadership, ExtendMax has become a trusted partner for global tech giants such as Amazon, Microsoft, Lenovo, Dell, ASUS, and Oppo – CEO & Founder of ExtendMax.

Phuong’s dedication to excellence has earned him numerous accolades, including the Business Icon of the Year in Vietnam 2024 and recognition as one of the 10 Prominent Male CEOs in 2024. His unwavering commitment to innovation and compliance continues to drive ExtendMax’s growth and success in the competitive tech industry.

His Way to Success

Born in Hai Phong, Vietnam, in 1980, Phuong’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged early. From starting a small sidewalk book rental business at age 12 to holding various part-time jobs, his diverse experiences laid the foundation for his future success Phuong holds an engineering degree and has co-founded several successful ventures, including VNCA laboratory, AZ Global Technology JSC, and Cleverlearn Trung Hoa.

Phuong began his career in sales and marketing at leading multinational FMCG companies where he gained valuable leadership and strategic management skills. In 2015, he identified a gap in Vietnam’s market for professional consulting services in market access and regulatory compliance. As Vietnam’s economy grew and global businesses sought entry, regulatory complexities became a significant barrier. This inspired him to establish ExtendMax, bridging the gap between international businesses and Vietnam’s regulatory framework. Over the years, ExtendMax has evolved into the country’s leading consulting firm, recognized for helping global corporations navigate the challenges of compliance, market access, and import-export regulations.

Overcoming Challenges

Building ExtendMax came with numerous challenges, including navigating Vietnam’s ever-changing regulatory landscape, earning trust from global clients unfamiliar with local markets, and fostering a team of experts capable of handling complex projects. To overcome these challenges, Phuong focused on building a customer-centric culture, maintaining transparency, and investing in continuous training for his team. He also developed strong partnerships with global clients and local authorities, which allowed ExtendMax to deliver tailored and efficient solutions.

Comprehensive Services

ExtendMax specializes in providing comprehensive services related to market access and regulatory compliance for information technology and electronic products. It assists manufacturers and importers in navigating complex regulatory requirements, ensuring that products meet local standards and can be legally sold in Vietnam. ExtendMax is known for its expertise in ICT-type approval for wireless devices, telecom equipment, and home appliances, as well as safety and EMC approvals.

Its wide range of services includes:

Product Conformity Certification Consulting:

It assists clients in ensuring their ICT products comply with Vietnam’s technical standards and regulatory requirements. This service includes consulting on testing, assessment, and certification to ensure products are market-ready.

IOR/EOR Services:

ExtendMax acts as the legal importer or exporter on behalf of international companies, enabling them to import or export products without establishing a local entity in Vietnam. It handles customs clearance, tax declarations, and legal compliance, ensuring a seamless and timely import/export process.

Consulting on Civil Cryptography and Cybersecurity Product Licensing:

It supports businesses in obtaining licenses for trading and importing civil cryptography products, meeting the strict and complex requirements of Vietnamese regulations. The services include evaluating existing conditions, proposing compliance solutions, and preparing specialized documentation such as business and technical plans.

Market Access Consulting:

ExtendMax analyzes regulatory requirements, recommends roadmaps for obtaining necessary certifications and permits, and assists clients with documentation and government interactions to ensure smooth market entry.

Simplifying Legalities

ExtendMax helps international businesses navigate several challenges they face when entering the Vietnamese market. The biggest challenges include understanding Vietnam’s complex regulatory environment, obtaining necessary certifications and licenses, and navigating customs procedures. ExtendMax addresses these challenges by providing tailored consulting services, ensuring compliance with local laws, and managing the entire process—from documentation preparation to government approvals—so clients can focus on their core business.

For instance, the importance of conformity certification and import-export consultancy for international businesses. “Conformity certification ensures that products meet the technical and safety standards required by Vietnamese law, allowing them to enter the market legally. Import-export consultancy is equally critical as it helps businesses navigate complex customs procedures, regulatory requirements, and tax obligations. Without these services, companies risk delays, penalties, or even the inability to bring their products to market, which can significantly impact their business operations,” explains Phoung.

Supporting Global Giants

ExtendMax has helped global technology companies like Amazon and Microsoft successfully navigate Vietnam’s regulatory framework. For instance, it supported Amazon Web Services in importing IT equipment worth tens of millions of USD by managing product classification, conformity certification, and customs procedures. Similarly, for Microsoft, ExtendMax provided end-to-end consulting services, ensuring smooth compliance with type approval regulations for their computing devices. These partnerships have allowed ExtendMax’s clients to establish their operations in Vietnam seamlessly.

Staying Aware and Ahead

Phoung handles multiple roles of being a CEO, entrepreneur, and legal expert and he views these roles as interconnected rather than separate. As a CEO, he focuses on strategic leadership. As an entrepreneur, he seeks opportunities to grow the business. As a legal expert, he is directly involved in critical consulting projects, leading the team in resolving complex cases. Delegation and trusting his team to handle specific tasks are key factors in balancing these responsibilities. He also makes time to reflect, recharge, and focus on long-term goals.

He stays motivated for his roles by focusing on the value ExtendMax brings to its clients and the industry. Seeing the clients succeed and knowing that ExtendMax is contributing to Vietnam’s economic development keeps him energized. 

“Innovation is driven by continuous learning, monitoring industry trends, and fostering a culture of creativity within my team. I also embrace challenges as opportunities to refine our processes and create new solutions,” says Phuong.

Keeping Ahead of Industry Trends and Contributing to the Economy

To keep the company ahead of regulatory changes and industry trends, Phoung and the core team invest heavily in staying informed about regulatory updates and industry trends through continuous training, research, and partnerships with global and local authorities. The team regularly attends seminars and collaborates with clients to understand their evolving needs. Additionally, they use digital tools to monitor changes in real time, allowing them to adapt quickly and provide timely advice to their clients.

ExtendMax plays a vital role in enabling international technology companies to establish and expand their operations in Vietnam, contributing to the country’s status as a regional technology hub. By ensuring compliance with local regulations and facilitating smooth market entry, it attracts foreign investment, creates jobs, and supports the growth of Vietnam’s ICT and telecommunications sectors. Its services also help local companies expand internationally, driving innovation and economic growth.

Expanding the Services

Phoung plans to expand ExtendMax’s service offerings to include more comprehensive consulting for foreign investment and mergers and acquisitions. Additionally, the company aims to develop digital platforms that enable real-time project tracking and regulatory updates for our clients. It is also exploring opportunities to expand its presence in other APAC markets and beyond, helping more businesses access Vietnam and other emerging economies.

Message for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 

Phuong concludes the interaction with the following message for aspiring entrepreneurs in Vietnam and across the globe:

“Start with a clear vision and a purpose that inspires you, not just profits. Focus on solving real problems or filling gaps in the market, as value creation is the foundation of any successful business. Build a team that shares your passion, and don’t hesitate to invest in their growth—your people are your most valuable asset.

Embrace challenges as opportunities for innovation and never fear failure; each setback is a lesson that brings you closer to success. Stay curious and keep learning—whether it’s about your industry, your customers, or yourself. Most importantly, stay true to your core values and ethics, as these will guide you when the road gets tough and differentiate you in a competitive world.

Finally, remember that entrepreneurship isn’t just about building a business; it’s about building a legacy. Think long-term, act with purpose, and always aim to contribute positively to society. Success will naturally follow when your work makes a difference.”

A Quote to Live By:

“I think it is possible for ordinary people to choose to be extraordinary.” – Elon Musk.

“This quote reminds me that greatness isn’t reserved for a select few—it’s a choice that anyone can make through dedication, hard work, and persistence. It inspires me to push boundaries, embrace challenges, and empower both myself and my team to achieve what may seem impossible,” says Phoung.

 

My story begins with my parents, who were part of the Windrush generation. They arrived in the UK 1960, seeking opportunities and a better future. My father came first, working hard as Scaffolder and Brick layer in the construction industry until he could afford to purchase a plane ticket for my mother to join him. Together, they settled in London and built a life, despite the many challenges they faced.

Both my parents lacked the basic literacy for coping with most jobs and everyday situations  My father worked tirelessly in construction, while my mother held several jobs from working in hotel kitchens to cleaning jobs, often bringing me along to help. We lived in a small two-bedroom council flat, and as the youngest of three children, I slept on a sofa bed in the living room. Despite the low living standards, I remember us being happy kids, making do with what little we had.

Lessons in Resilience and Work Ethic

Growing up, my parents instilled a strong work ethic in me. By the age of eight, I was ironing my own clothes, and by ten, I was cooking for myself. I was a latchkey kid, often left to my own devices while my parents worked long hours. Today, such independence might raise eyebrows, but for most low income households, it was simply how life was.

My father was determined to teach me the value of vigorous work. He lined up many odd jobs for me. These experiences, though challenging, shaped my understanding of perseverance and responsibility.

Education as a Gateway

Education wasn’t a priority for my parents; they didn’t fully understand its value due to a 1930s upbringing in the Caribbean and lack of opportunity. Yet, they supported me in their own way. I attended a grammar school thanks to the support of the local catholic church doing relatively well in entrance exams. 

At school, I found refuge. I stayed late, immersing myself in sports and spending hours in the library. One teacher in particular took an interest in me, offering guidance and support throughout my time there. It was during these years that I realised my path wouldn’t follow the traditional route. I needed to start working early and find a way to balance earning a wage with ongoing development.

Entering the World of Technology

At 16, career fairs opened my eyes to opportunities in technology. Although I didn’t initially have a passion for tech, I discovered I had a knack for STEM subjects. I landed an apprenticeship as an analyst developer at 18, working for a global data services firm. This role allowed me to earn a wage, help mum and dad while pursuing my qualifications, laying the foundation for a career in technology.

Carrying the Fire Forward

Reflecting on my journey, I see how my parents’ sacrifices, and work ethic fuelled my drive. Their resilience taught me the importance of staying focused, disciplined, and striving for improvement. From growing up in a modest council flat to building a career in tech, every step has been guided by the lessons I learned from them.

I share this story not to dwell on challenges but to highlight the enduring strength of those who persevere against the odds. Stories like mine are not unique—they are still unfolding across the UK and beyond. They remind us of the power of resilience, the importance of opportunity, and the impact of support.

Whether you’re at the start of your journey or reflecting on your own path, remember: where you begin does not define where you can go. Let your experiences fuel your ambition, and never stop striving for improvement, if that motivates you.

From YTS to Career Growth: Lessons in Accountability and Resilience

Starting my career in technology was no walk in the park. I began my career on a  Youth Training Scheme (YTS), a program that offered young people a chance to gain work experience and qualifications. But let me tell you—it was no handout. The assessment process was rigorous, and the expectations were high.

Every six months, we were evaluated to determine if we could stay in the program. This wasn’t just a formality; it was intense. If your performance didn’t meet the standard, you were released from the program. There was no room for complacency.

Accountability and High Standards

One of the most demanding aspects of the role was the focus on quality. Every piece of code we wrote was thoroughly reviewed and quality-controlled. If your work didn’t improve over time, your position was at risk.

This level of personal accountability is something I don’t always see as much in today’s work environment. During this period, it wasn’t just about doing the job; it was about doing it exceptionally well, even as a trainee. That discipline and focus on excellence became foundational to how I approached my career.

Learning on the Job

In addition to work, I attended College once a week. Balancing on-the-job learning with academic studies wasn’t easy, but it was invaluable. The program wasn’t just about gaining experience; it was about proving yourself capable in a competitive environment.

Thriving in Adversity

Despite the challenges, I managed to thrive in that environment. The lofty expectations, relentless assessments, and the need to continuously improve shaped me into a disciplined and resilient professional. Looking back, those early years taught me lessons that have stayed with me:

Accountability matters. When you know your work will be scrutinised, you learn to take pride in its quality.

Growth comes from challenges. The pressure to perform pushed me to learn faster and adapt.

Excellence is a habit. Developing high standards early in my career set the tone for everything I’ve done since.

The Legacy of Hard Work

That experience, while tough, gave me the tools to build a lasting career in technology. It also reminded me that growth doesn’t come from comfort—it comes from stepping up, being accountable, and embracing challenges.

If you’re just starting out, don’t shy away from tough environments. Those are the places where you’ll learn the most and develop the resilience, you’ll need for the rest of your career.

Reflections on a Non-Traditional Career Path

Looking back on my career, I often think about how my journey differed from the traditional route. I started young, working alongside adults as a shy teenager who had to grow up quickly. While many of my peers were enjoying university life, I was navigating the workplace, learning on the job, and figuring out how to thrive in an adult world before I was fully ready.

The Early Start: A Double-Edged Sword

Starting my career early had its advantages. By my early 20s, I was already buying property—an opportunity that feels almost unimaginable for Generation Z . Those early experiences shaped me into who I am today, teaching me responsibility, discipline, and resilience.

But it wasn’t without its costs. Starting young meant missing out on the traditional university experience. While my peers were building social networks and exploring life at their own pace, I was already working on personal development plans. By the time my peers entered the workforce, I had years of experience but also years of fatigue. There’s a certain weariness that comes with starting early—by the time others catch up, you’ve already weathered many years of challenges.

The Ups and Downs of the Journey

My career has been a blessing, but it hasn’t been without its struggles. I started at the lowest rank, working my way up through sheer determination, hard work, and a bit of serendipity. There have been high points—ambitious roles and many opportunities. I’m incredibly proud of—but also low points that tested my resolve.

What has made the difference along the way are the people who’ve helped me. None of us achieve success alone. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors, colleagues, and supporters who guided me, believed in me, and opened doors I couldn’t have opened on my own.

Core Values That Endure

Through it all, a few core values have remained central to who I am:

Hard Work: My upbringing instilled a relentless work ethic that continues to drive me.

Curiosity: I’ve always been eager to learn, adapt, and grow—qualities that have been invaluable in a constantly evolving career

Collaboration: I genuinely enjoy working with people, helping them realise their potential, and learning from them in return.

A Career Built Together

I often say my career is the result of many people’s inputs. While I’ve worked hard to get where I am, I’m also the product of countless acts of kindness, guidance, and support. 

For those starting out or reflecting on their own journey, I’d say this: there’s no one-size-fits-all path. Whether you start early or late, whether your journey is linear or filled with twists and turns, the key is to stay curious, work hard, and embrace the people and opportunities that come your way. Success isn’t just about where you end up—it’s about how you grow along the way.

A Journey Fuelled by Reflection and a Desire to Contribute

Your question about the inspiration behind my journey is both thoughtful and complex. It touches on something I reflect on often: what is this journey really about?

For me, it’s not just one journey—it’s a collection of paths that intertwine, each driven by a deep desire to contribute and leave a meaningful social impact. Let me break it down into two parts, as you suggested: the “why” behind this journey and the “how” it continues to evolve.

Why I Began

I’ve always been deeply reflective, often looking at life through the lens of “have I done enough?” This mindset was shaped by reading autobiographies of people in their later years—those reflecting on decades of life. A recurring theme in their stories is the fear of missed opportunities, the lingering question of whether they truly made an impact.

That resonated with me. I realised, at some point, that I wasn’t doing enough—not for allyship, not for social impact, not for the causes I deeply care about, like DE&I. Despite having built a solid skill set and a career I’m proud of, I could do more, to contribute in ways that truly matter.

This isn’t to say that personal achievements like building a family and supporting loved ones aren’t meaningful—they absolutely are. But for me, that’s just one piece of the puzzle. I wanted to look back and feel that I had used my abilities, my platform, and my energy to create broader, lasting change.

How the Journey Evolved

This desire to contribute is why I’m involved in many social causes. I’m drawn to opportunities where I can have an impact—whether it’s mentoring, advocating for diversity, or driving social initiatives. But I’ll be honest: I don’t think I’ve figured it all out yet.

I’m constantly exploring ways to do more, and I suspect this will be a lifelong process. There’s a part of me that believes the real work will come later, as I step away from executive roles and have the time and space to take on bolder, more ambitious projects.

A Hunger to Keep Growing

At its core, my journey is fuelled by a hunger to improve, to help, and to create. While I feel I’m doing more now than I have in the past, I also know I’m not doing nearly enough. There’s always more to learn, more to give, and more to achieve.

In the end, I hope this journey will reflect a life of growth, contribution, and connection. Whether through the roles I’ve held, the people I’ve supported, or the causes I’ve championed, I want to leave behind a legacy that speaks to the values I hold dear: hard work, curiosity, and a deep commitment to social impact and advancement.

And if there’s still more to do? That’s the beauty of the journey—it’s never really over.

The Driving Force Behind It All

When I reflect on the driving force behind my journey, I realise it’s deeply rooted in my upbringing and the experiences that shaped my family’s story. It’s not something materialistic, nor is it purely about financial security—it’s a relentless desire to improve, to overcome, and to honour the sacrifices my parents made.

The Reflection of Time

Now, as I look back, I understand this drive more clearly. It wasn’t just about ambition—it was about healing, about proving to myself and my parents that we could overcome the barriers that had held us back.

It’s why I often remind my children how fortunate they are. They live in a world so different from the one I grew up in, and while they may not fully relate to my experiences, I hope they carry the values of resilience, gratitude, and the drive to always do better.

A Simple Yet Profound Motivation

If I had to sum it up, the driving force is this: to improve and to honour the sacrifices of those who came before me. It’s not profound in a philosophical sense, but it’s deeply personal and meaningful. It’s about growth—not just for myself, but for my family and the generations to come.

Lessons From My Mother: Resilience, Empathy, and Adaptability

Growing up, my mother taught me invaluable lessons—ones you don’t learn in classrooms but through lived experience. She was a woman of incredible strength, juggling several jobs, raising three children and a granddaughter, and always finding a way to lighten even the darkest days with her storytelling and humour.

Her stories were her way of making sense of the world for us, softening the blows of life while instilling resilience. I still remember her urging me to go to school even on days I dreaded it, knowing I might face bullies. Those moments toughened me, gave me a hardened shell, and taught me to confront challenges head-on.

The Value of the Grind

One of the greatest lessons my mother imparted was the value of hard work—what we now call “the grind.” No matter what the day looked like or what challenges lay ahead, she believed in getting up and working through problems. That work ethic has stuck with me. It’s a simple but profound truth: Everyone can grind.

She also taught me the importance of resilience—not just enduring but thriving through adversity. Watching her balance multiple jobs while still managing to bring laughter into our home taught me the power of perseverance and positivity.

Reading the Room

My mother had an uncanny ability to read a room and make people laugh. She could connect with anyone, and that’s a skill I’ve carried into my career. Whether it’s engaging with boards, committees, or teams across the globe, understanding the dynamics of a room and adapting to it has been invaluable.

At the highest levels of leadership, the ability to read people and situations—to listen, empathise, and adjust—is critical. It’s not about being disingenuous but about recognising the patterns in how people make decisions and interact. That said be true to yourself.  

Adapting to Every Walk of Life

As a global leader, I’ve worked in countless countries and cultures, and the lessons my mother taught me have been my compass. Her advice that life would be tough because of my differences, and that I’d have to work harder, wasn’t just a warning—it was preparation.

Being curious, listening actively, and staying adaptable have served me well. While every individual is unique, you begin to notice patterns in behaviour across cultures. Learning to subtly adapt without losing your authenticity has been one of the most important skills in my personal and professional journey.

The Toolbox for Life

Looking back, I realize how much of my “toolbox” comes from my mother. Traits like resilience, empathy, adaptability, and humour weren’t taught—they were demonstrated. These tools have shaped my interactions, my career, and my leadership style.

I’m deeply grateful for those lessons and use them daily, whether navigating complex professional landscapes or simply engaging with the world around me. They’re a testament to my mother’s strength and wisdom, and they continue to guide me as I strive to honour her legacy.

A Defining Experience in Allyship

When I think about allyship, one pivotal experience stands out—a lightbulb moment that reshaped how I understood its importance and power.

I was a young software developer working in a program team, and the program director—a black man—was someone I deeply admired. He was a figure of quiet authority, someone who stood tall, surveying the office floor like it was his empire. I remember being in awe of him, observing his confidence and leadership.

One day, he broke the unspoken distance between himself and the team and came over to talk to me. That single interaction became the start of something transformational. He took an interest in my growth, asking me about my ambitions. At the time, I didn’t even have an answer. I was just happy to be working.

Seeding Ambition

What followed was a series of conversations, meetings, and mentorship that fundamentally changed my trajectory. He gave me books to read—books I would never have chosen myself—and would discuss them with me, drawing out lessons and insights. He pushed me to think beyond my current role, challenging me to see a future where I could lead.

At one point, he encouraged me to take on a leadership role within a development work-stream, carefully considering my age and experience to ensure it would be a manageable step forward. Over time, he built my confidence, helped me develop my skills, and planted the seeds of ambition.

Allyship in Action

That experience taught me what allyship truly means. It’s about more than just offering support; it’s about actively investing in someone’s potential. It’s about creating opportunities, sharing knowledge, and helping others see a future they might not have imagined for themselves.

What made his allyship even more impactful was that he didn’t have to do it. He had no obligation to mentor me, yet he chose to invest his time and energy. That choice is what I now try to emulate in my own approach to allyship.

Paying It Forward

Today, I make a conscious effort to support others in similar ways. Whether through LinkedIn conversations, coaching, or simply sharing my story, to inspire and guide others. I’ve learned that allyship isn’t just about opening doors—it’s about helping people recognize doors they didn’t even know existed.

I’ve also expanded my understanding of allyship beyond race or gender. I’ve started focusing on neurodiversity and other areas of inclusion, ensuring my efforts are balanced and reflective of the diverse challenges people face.

The Broader Impact

My experience with that program director wasn’t just about personal growth—it was about understanding the ripple effect of allyship. His belief in me not only transformed my career but also shaped how I approach leadership, mentorship, and inclusion today.

Allyship is a commitment to lift others as we climb, and that commitment is something I carry with me every day. I aim to embody the same principles of allyship that were shown to me.

The Influence of Role Models and Allyship

Reflecting on my career journey, I’ve realized that the most significant influences have come from a combination of personal and professional role models. First and foremost, my mother remains my greatest inspiration—she’s always been my superhero. Her resilience, determination, and work ethic have shaped how I approach life and leadership. But in my professional life, I’ve also encountered people who looked like me, individuals who were in senior roles I never thought possible to attain. Seeing people who shared my background in leadership roles was pivotal for me.

One moment that stands out occurred midway through my career. I was meeting with a partner from a search firm, seeking my next career move. In a rather formal setting, the partner casually mentioned, “See that chap over there? You need to look like him.” She was referring to a middle-aged white man, who seemed to fit the traditional mould of what senior leadership looked like at that time. But I knew I wasn’t going to fit that mould. I realised I couldn’t emulate him—I needed to be myself. Luckily, I was able to land a major role as a CIO in a financial services firm, not by imitating others, but by staying true to my approach. That experience was empowering, as it reinforced the importance of being authentic and finding my own way.

Leadership Evolution: From Skill Sets to Team Dynamics

As my career progressed, I began to realise that leadership was not just about the individual skills of team members—it was about the overall dynamics of the team itself. Early in my career, I focused primarily on what skills I needed for a specific role. But when I moved into larger leadership positions, such as program director running significant change programs, I saw the importance of building well-balanced, functional teams.

I realised that without attention to team composition, I risked having high performers who, while excellent individually, might compete against each other in unhealthy ways. This shift in perspective made me understand that leadership is not just about delivering results but also about fostering collaboration and ensuring that everyone in the team has a role that aligns with both their strengths and the team’s goals.

This evolution in my leadership style didn’t happen overnight. It came with experience, and I began to invest more in understanding leadership theory and taking courses to refine my approach. I learned that building a cohesive, well-rounded team is essential to long-term success, and that an effective leader must be attuned not just to individual performance, but also to how the team interacts, communicates, and collaborates.

Allyship in Leadership

Allyship has deeply influenced my leadership style. Early on, I didn’t consciously focus on building diverse teams or being an ally in the workplace. But as I matured in my career, I realised that leadership is about more than just directing; it’s about lifting others up, giving opportunities to those who may not have them, and being mindful of the diverse backgrounds and perspectives within a team.

I also learned that allyship is a responsibility—one that extends beyond supporting causes to actively creating environments where people from different walks of life can thrive. Today, I’m committed to not only being a better ally to others but also to using my platform to help others see opportunities they might not have otherwise. I aim to continue paying it forward, just as I had the privilege of receiving support and guidance throughout my own journey.

Best Piece of Advice on Being an Ally

The best piece of advice I’ve received regarding allyship isn’t about specific words someone shared with me, but rather the journey of finding my own voice and becoming comfortable with it. Early in my career, I didn’t have the agency or presence to call out biases or prejudices in the workplace. I was just hustling, trying to make a living and support my family. But over the last two decades, as my career grew, I realised the importance of using my voice to address what I saw.

Advice for Aspiring Leaders on Becoming Better Allies

For aspiring leaders, my advice would be to find your community—both within and outside of your organisation. In my early career, there weren’t as many formal communities focused on diversity and inclusion, but today there are many more opportunities to get involved. Many organisations now have affinity groups and networks that are not just token gestures but have real sponsorship and financial backing. These communities can help you find your voice, provide support, and allow you to advocate for those who may not have the same opportunities.

One of the things I’ve observed is that it’s important to support causes that may not seem to directly impact you but need to have more prominence in your industry. Whether it’s promoting individuals from underrepresented backgrounds or supporting initiatives that aim to level the playing field, these causes matter. Don’t be afraid to step up, even if it feels like a bit of a taboo or uncomfortable at first. 

If you’re really brave, and if your organisation doesn’t have a community for these causes, be the first to start one. Create a space for others to gather, share experiences, and support each other. Leadership is about paving the way for others, and sometimes that means being the one to take the first step.

Ultimately, being an ally is about having the courage to speak up, listen, and support others, especially those who may not have the same opportunities or platform.

Rajesh Haridas is a visionary leader with over two decades of experience in the IT industry. As the CEO of Consltek, Rajesh has been instrumental in driving the company’s mission to empower businesses with top-tier technology solutions. Under his leadership, Consltek has grown from a one-person startup to a key player in the tech space, known for its innovative solutions and exceptional customer service. Rajesh’s strategic insights and passion for innovation have been pivotal in shaping Consltek’s success, emphasizing collaboration, customer-centric solutions, and long-term partnerships that deliver measurable results.

Passion for Entrepreneurship

Rajesh has always been passionate about technology and its potential to transform businesses. From the outset of his career, technology has been his passion and a driving force behind his professional journey. This passion led him to IT, where he has managed some of the most intricate unified communications (UC) and IT security solutions globally. These experiences gave Rajesh profound insights into the intersection of technology and business and companies’ unique challenges when integrating IT into their operations.

Recognizing these challenges, he embraced entrepreneurship, founding Consltek Inc. an MSSP (Managed Security Service Provider). Rajesh’s vision was clear: to help small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) leverage technology as a strategic enabler. SMBs often operate with small, overextended teams juggling numerous responsibilities, leaving their IT security inadvertently vulnerable. Consltek offers solutions and services that empower these businesses to optimize resources, safeguard operations, and focus on their core missions.

The Company

Consltek is a leading provider of managed IT services, specializing in delivering enterprise-grade solutions to mid-sized businesses. Founded by a team of experienced technologists, Consltek offers a comprehensive suite of services, including managed security, managed infrastructure, and managed compliance. Their mission is to simplify and secure business operations, allowing companies to focus on their core initiatives while Consltek handles the complexities of IT management.

With a customer-first approach, Consltek ensures that its solutions align with business goals, providing exceptional support and rapid response times. Their services are designed to be scalable, cost-effective, and proactive, offering round-the-clock monitoring and cutting-edge tools like EDR/XDR and vulnerability scanning to prevent threats before they occur. By leveraging its deep engineering expertise and ITIL processes, Consltek helps businesses achieve operational efficiency and growth without the stress of managing IT infrastructure in-house.

The Leader’s Approach

Rajesh’s leadership approach centers on aligning technology with business goals. He doesn’t see technology as merely tools or systems but as a strategic asset to achieve organizational objectives. This perspective shapes his decision-making and ensures that Consltek’s offerings consistently deliver measurable value to the clients.

Flexibility and adaptability are additional pillars of his leadership philosophy. The business landscape evolves rapidly, and fostering a culture that embraces change is critical. Within Consltek, Rajesh champions innovation, encouraging team members to propose fresh ideas and solutions to meet emerging challenges.

Equally important is building and nurturing a strong team. Collaboration, open communication, and mutual respect are cornerstones of Consltek’s work environment. Each team member’s voice matters, creating a culture of shared purpose. 

One of its customers, Cleveland University–Kansas City, aptly captures this in their feedback:

“Consltek allows us to leverage a broader skill set than we could ever have internally. Their partnership complements our internal IT team, strengthening our operations and enabling us to focus on our core priorities.”   Stirling Howell, Vice President of Administrative Services

“Since partnering with Consltek, Cleveland University-Kansas City has been able to focus our limited resources on the tasks that are best suited to our internal team. Consltek allows us to leverage a much broader skillset that Cleveland University – Kansas City – would ever have on staff. The testing, change management process, and overall detailed documentation have proven to be an invaluable asset to Cleveland University – Kansas City and its IT operations.”

Overcoming Challenges as a CEO

One of Rajesh’s most significant challenges has been scaling Consltek while maintaining the company’s commitment to excellence. Growth can strain resources, dilute focus, and disrupt processes if not managed carefully.

To navigate this, he prioritized building a scalable infrastructure and assembling a robust leadership team capable of handling expansion. By implementing efficient systems and processes, his team ensured that service quality remains their hallmark. This foundation allows them to expand without compromising their promise to deliver exceptional client outcomes.

Defining Achievements

Among Rajesh’s proudest achievements is building Consltek into a trusted partner for SMBs navigating the complex terrain of IT security and operations. As an MSSP, they enhance efficiency and security and empower organizations to focus on strategic growth rather than operational headaches.

Another highlight is the exceptional team the company has assembled. Consltek’s culture of passion, commitment, and expertise is its most significant asset, directly contributing to its ability to exceed client expectations consistently.

Fostering Innovation and Adaptability

Innovation is woven into Consltek’s fabric. To stay competitive, the company encourages its team to explore the best potential solutions for its customers based on their needs and continuously learn. It invests in resources that facilitate exploring all relevant options, fostering a safe environment for creativity.

Additionally, knowledge-sharing is integral to Consltek’s operations. Staying abreast of emerging trends in cybersecurity, compliance, and technology equips its team to deliver cutting-edge solutions tailored to its clients’ unique needs.

“I believe that it is essential to facilitate the empowerment of all employees. Businesses can support the entire workforce by providing opportunities to develop their skills and advance their careers. I am committed to creating a workplace where everyone is supported and valued,” says Rajesh.

Personal Growth as a Leader

Rajesh believes that continuous improvement is vital to maintaining relevance and effectiveness as a leader. He dedicates time to reading, attending conferences, and engaging with industry peers to refine his skills and expand his perspective. Feedback from colleagues, clients, and mentors is another critical component, as it highlights areas for improvement and growth.

“By adopting a mindset of lifelong learning, I aim to stay adaptable and forward-thinking, ensuring Consltek remains an industry leader,” concludes Rajesh.

The following sections need to be designed in the PDF:

Quick Questions:

• What’s your favorite book?   The Alchemist
• What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned? (Personal or professional) : End of the day, you are responsible for your situation. Everything else is an excuse.
• What is your favorite productivity hack? Start early and stop early. When you are 30 minutes early, there is no line at the coffee shop, no line at the cafeteria, and less traffic to work and back. You save an hour every day by just starting early.
• What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? It’s not what you say, it is how you say that matters.
• What is your favorite quote?  “If you really want to judge the character of a person, judge his common actions over an extended period of time and not his one-time great performance.” – Swami Vivekananda

Leadership Mantra

Rajesh believes effective leadership rests on five foundational qualities:

Vision – A clear and inspiring roadmap for the future.

Integrity – Consistent honesty and ethics in every decision.

Courage – The willingness to embrace challenges and make tough decisions.

Communication – The ability to articulate ideas effectively and foster collaboration.

Inspiration – Motivating teams to exceed expectations and achieve shared goals.

“These principles have guided me throughout my journey, enabling me to build a resilient organization,” he says.