At TechSparks Bangalore 2024, Roopa Kumar, Founder & Group CEO of Purple Quarter, took the stage to share her thoughts on what makes a modern tech leader stand out. Drawing from expertise, Roopa voices the urgency of why today’s leaders have to look beyond the immediate and adopt a broader, purpose-driven mindset.
On Hybrid Leadership for a New Era: Aligning Tech Skills with Business Goals
“Today’s tech leaders need more than technical prowess; I believe they need a ‘futuristic mindset’ that embraces change and prepares for an unpredictable future. Reflecting on industry shifts—pandemic impacts, funding cycles—has shown me the importance of hybrid leadership.”
“For me, hybrid leadership means combining tech expertise with business alignment, and building solutions that are not only advanced but also commercially viable. As leaders, we must guide teams for today’s goals and future-proof success in an ever-evolving industry.”
Vision, Influence, and Mentorship: Key Traits for Tech Leaders
“In my experience, effective leadership requires more than skills; it’s about influence and communication, especially when engaging diverse stakeholders, from investors to global teams. Leaders must share their vision clearly, aligning everyone toward shared goals.”
“I find visionary thinking essential—it’s about balancing immediate wins with long-term goals. Leaders should inspire their teams by connecting today’s projects to future growth. Mentorship, too, is the key; I see it as a necessity for fostering an inclusive tech culture based on empathy and intelligence, helping build future-ready teams.”
Leverage Storytelling as a Tool
“One of the most impactful tools in my leadership approach is storytelling. It’s not just about crafting a narrative but creating a mission that resonates emotionally. For example, in health-tech, a leader might inspire their team by connecting their work to patient care, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.”
“Storytelling inspires loyalty and a shared sense of ownership, essential for a culture where innovation thrives. Leadership isn’t just about solving technical challenges but inspiring people to connect with a larger purpose and impact.”
