Sanjay Ghare is a seasoned technology professional with over 20 years of experience in implementing enterprise applications. Mr Ghare is based in Pune and is the co-Founder and CEO of Vervotech, a leading provider of travel technology solutions specialising in hotel accommodation data. Prior to his role at Vervotech, Mr Ghare was vice-president of the software as a service (SaaS) business at Tavisca, a division of JPMorgan Chase & Co, where he had honed his expertise in the travel technology domain for over a decade. He has been an active member of prestigious forums such as the Forbes Tech Council and various national technology forums, contributing his insights and expertise to the industry. In an interesting conversation with Sharmila Chand, the Vervotech CEO speaks about his management principles and practices that have helped him succeed in the world of business.

What are your five management mantras?

·       Giving autonomy to managers and trusting their expertise fosters a sense of ownership and accountability within the team, leading to better outcomes.

·       While data is essential for decision-making, it is equally important not to discount your instincts, as they often provide valuable insights that data alone may not capture.

·       Investing in the workforce through training, development and support creates a motivated and skilled team that drives organisational success.

·       Cultivating a positive team environment promotes collaboration, innovation and overall productivity.

·       Celebrating small victories and milestones along the way fosters a culture of appreciation and motivation within the team.

Do you play any game that helps you in your career?

Yes, I play cricket, and I find it incredibly insightful for my work. Cricket teaches me that I am only as good as my last performance, emphasising the importance of consistency and continuous improvement. Every time I step onto the field, I strive to be at my best, knowing that my intent and effort count towards achieving success.

Would you share with us the turning point in your career?

A significant turning point in my career was when I made the decision to leave my job and venture into entrepreneurship with minimal backup resources. It was a risky move, but it ultimately led to the founding of Vervotech and has been instrumental in shaping my professional journey.

What is the secret of your success?

I attribute my success to a combination of hard work, effective relationship management and the ability to foster meaningful connections within my professional network. These elements have been crucial in driving both personal and organisational growth throughout my career.

What is your philosophy of work?

My philosophy of work centres upon finding satisfaction in my endeavours before calling it a day. Whether it is completing a project, solving a problem or making progress towards a goal, I believe that personal fulfilment and a sense of accomplishment are essential aspects of a fulfilling career.

Is there any particular person you admire who has inspired you?

I greatly admire Sridhar Vembu for his remarkable achievements in scaling up technology solutions globally while maintaining a sound business model and ethical practices. His journey and accomplishments serve as a constant source of inspiration for me, motivating me to strive for excellence in my own endeavours.

What is the best advice you got?

The best advice I have received is to trust my instincts and intuition, even when faced with data-driven decisions. I have learnt that the most impactful decisions often stem from a combination of analytical reasoning and gut feeling, highlighting the importance of embracing both aspects in decision-making.

Who is your sounding board?

My team serves as my sounding board, providing valuable insights, perspectives and feedback that help me make informed decisions and navigate challenges effectively. Their collective expertise and collaboration are invaluable assets in driving organisational success.

What are your favourite books and why?

One of my favourite books is Creative Confidence by Tom Kelley and David Kelley. It challenged me to think differently and embrace creativity in both my personal and professional lives. The book underscores the importance of innovation and encourages readers to unleash their creative potential, inspiring me to approach challenges with an open mind and a willingness to explore new ideas.

What is your fitness regime?

I remain fit through active sports, prioritising physical well-being as an essential aspect of maintaining overall productivity and mental acuity. Engaging in regular physical activity not only keeps me healthy but also helps me stay focused and energised in my work.

What are your five mantras for success?

·       I believe that finding passion and excitement in the process is the key to sustained motivation and dedication.

·       Building lean and agile teams fosters adaptability and innovation, enabling organisations to thrive in dynamic environments.

·       Prioritising profitability and sustainable growth over vanity metrics ensures long-term success and value creation.

·       Embracing challenges and taking calculated risks foster growth and resilience, driving continuous improvement and innovation.

·       Cultivating a culture of learning and experimentation promotes personal and professional development, enabling individuals and organisations to adapt and thrive in ever-changing landscapes.

What message on management you would like to convey to youngsters?

To young professionals, I would advise not to be overly fixated on long-term planning but rather focus on continually improving and experimenting in their careers. Embrace opportunities for growth, learning and exploration, and do not shy away from taking risks or pursuing unconventional paths. Success often lies in the journey, not just the destination.

Lastly, how would you define yourself in one sentence?

As a technology professional, I am primarily driven by instincts and emotions, recognising the importance of intuition and empathy in my approach to work and leadership.