Karthikeyan G.
Senior Director, Engineering, Ascendion

Karthikeyan G. is a seasoned digital transformation strategist with expertise in digital commerce and enterprise solutions. He currently serves as senior director (engineering) at Ascendion, where he focuses on fostering innovation, building high-performing teams, and developing tools to enhance software development processes.

He comes with a rich background spanning consulting, research and development, and has successfully implemented AI-driven strategies for multiple clients. His expertise includes platform modernisation, microservices architecture, and cloud-native solutions. Amongst his various projects, Karthikeyan recalls leading the modernisation of legacy applications for a US-based telecom company as the most memorable one.

Karthikeyan believes that network technology is transforming the telecom industry. According to him, the development of 6G, the integration of edge computing, the application of AI for network automation, and the pursuit of energy-efficient solutions such as wireless power transmission and self-powered devices are all shaping the future of telecom.

He further adds that the IT services industry is undergoing a remarkable shift in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, which promises opportunities as well as poses challenges. Some of the key challenges are navigating digital transformation journeys focused on AI integration, acquiring and upskilling talent, ensuring regulatory compliance and security in system design, and driving innovation at the enterprise scale while reducing operational costs. To address these and leverage business opportunities, Karthikeyan strives to expand and nurture long-term client relationships through a “land and expand” approach, optimise operational efficiency to reduce costs, develop thought leadership to guide strategic initiatives, ensure technological excellence across all engagements, standardise engineering methodologies, deliver scalable solutions, and maintain a strong focus on security and compliance. “My biggest strength lies in my ability to blend domain knowledge with technological expertise to create practical and effective solutions”, he adds. About his leadership style, he says it centres on empowering individuals and providing them with the resources and support they need to excel.

Karthikeyan holds a BSc degree in computer science and engineering from SRM Valliammai Engineering College, Tamil Nadu. Besides work, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, indulging in gaming, listening to music, and watching movies. He lives in a joint family with his wife, their daughter, his parents, as well as his brother’s family.