Emerging leader of the connected world
After two decades across the vast DigiTech universe, Saydulu Kolasani has emerged as a flag-bearer at the intersection of Global Technology and Business Strategy. An award-winning Digital Transformation Leader and SVP at US-based Fisker Automotive, Saydulu has gained international acclaim for being a beacon of innovation and growth across multiple industries.
Besides driving large-scale transformations, Saydulu is deeply passionate about the development of others. Collaboration and mentorship are at the heart of what he does. This also renders him a much sought after Author, Advisor, and Speaker on various international platforms.
“I visualize a future where technology seamlessly integrates into everyday life to enhance experiences and solve critical issues. I’m passionate about being at the forefront of this transformation and contributing to a better, more connected world. This vision motivates me to positively impact countless lives through the power of technology,” he says.
Saydulu was always fascinated by technology and how things work, which led him to pursue a Master’s in Computer Science. His career in technology began with an internship at IBM, followed by full-time roles in software engineering in the US – at Unilever, Epson America Inc., T-Mobile, Ingram Micro, and Nu-Skin.
His keen analytical skills and ability to translate complex technical challenges into business opportunities quickly set him apart. His transition into leadership roles was marked by strategic moves that leveraged technology as a competitive advantage to drive business growth, operational excellence, and digital agility at several Fortune 500 companies.
One of the key milestones in his career was leading a successful product launch at his first job as a software developer, which taught him leadership, project management, and cross-functional collaboration. Another was obtaining a certification in SAP, which positioned him as a subject matter expert in a rapidly growing technology area. He then spearheaded large-scale transformation initiatives such as ERP implementations, streamlining supply chain operations, autonomous driving, connected vehicles, and IoT devices. He also drove business transformations, including cloud migrations, digital commerce platforms, and marketplaces. These initiatives resulted in world-class customer experiences, significant cost savings, remarkable improvements in operational efficiency, and revenue gains.
At the beginning of 2024, he was headhunted by Fisker Automotive as SVP of Digital & Enterprise Transformation and Operations, Infrastructure & Cybersecurity. In addition, he serves as an Advisory Council Member for the Harvard Business Review, Vation Ventures, and Design Thinking Executive Program – University of California.
However, Saydulu’s journey is not just about corporate milestones; it’s deeply rooted in his family and core values. His parents instilled in him the importance of accountability and integrity, values he carries with him to this day. His message is clear: extraordinary things happen when ordinary people are willing to go the extra mile.
This belief has carried him to the highest pedestals – Saydulu won the prestigious Digital Transformation & Innovation Leader of the Year by Leaders Awards, Top 100 Leaders in AI by AIM Council, and Results-Oriented Leader of the Award by Titan, among others. His induction into the Business Transformation Trailblazer in Technology Disruption along with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the ICSD Council solidify his status as a true leader.
Speaking about his inspiration, he shares, “My inspiration stems from a relentless pursuit of innovation, a commitment to bringing a smile to a customer’s face, and a desire to solve business problems. I feel inspired by the people around me. I learn something from each individual and adapt to become a better version of myself. I’m also dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusivity, continuous improvement, and sustainability. I find immense fulfillment in impacting businesses and organizations and creating new opportunities that move the revenue needle. My mantra is – DREAM BIG and live that dream every day.”
Saydulu is equally candid about the challenges he faced. “A major challenge in my early career was managing a cross-functional team spread across different time zones and cultural backgrounds. That taught me the value of empathy, cultural awareness, and effective communication. Another significant challenge was driving a digital transformation initiative in an organization resistant to change. People need to know WHY we are transforming. Overcoming skepticism, developing a growth mindset, and encouraging a culture of innovation required persistent effort and relentless communication.”
As our conversation draws to a close, we ask Saydulu the most important question of all – How does he stay ahead in what is undoubtedly the fastest developing industry? His reply: “I believe that ‘either you are the disruptor, or you are being disrupted’, and thus I continuously reinvent myself to achieve my goals. I also utilize Online Resources, attend Industry Events and Conferences, join Professional Associations and Groups, and Engage with Thought Leaders. Growth happens when we step out of our comfort zones and embrace new challenges. Whether it’s learning a new skill, taking on a different role, or venturing into entrepreneurship, bold steps lead to extraordinary results.”
