From Hockey Rink to Insurance Leader
Sivakumar Deivacikamani’s story isn’t woven from the threads of privilege. Growing up in a vibrant community, he absorbed invaluable life lessons: the power of empathy, the importance of communal living (“we” over “me”), and the art of thriving within one’s means. Witnessing his father’s meticulous dedication at Lakshmi Mills, where he ensured the smooth operation of complex machinery, left an indelible mark on young Sivakumar. From his mother, he learned resourcefulness, a skill that proved invaluable during his middle-class upbringing.
Today, Sivakumar stands tall as a leader at the helm of Cognizant’s Insurance Americas Delivery, Innovation Lab, and Technology. With a multi-billion portfolio encompassing hundreds of insurance carriers across the Americas, including top P&C and L&A players, he wields a masterful hand. He fosters the growth of cutting-edge capabilities while meticulously managing profitability. Under his visionary leadership, Cognizant has solidified its position as a North American insurance leader, consistently delivering exceptional value to the industry.
Sivakumar’s career in the insurance sector has been a constant dance with dynamic challenges and burgeoning opportunities, especially during periods of market flux. He’s not a lone wolf; collaboration is his secret weapon. By working hand-in-hand with clients and addressing their evolving needs, he’s steered Insurance practice through past market downturns, and this strategic approach remains a cornerstone of his success today. A fervent believer in lifelong learning, Sivakumar relentlessly hones his skillset to stay abreast of market trends. He’s not just a leader; he’s a perpetual student, constantly attending advanced programs at prestigious institutions like MIT and Wharton. Currently, he’s engrossed in delving into the complexities of AI and other cutting-edge technologies.
Fueling Sivakumar’s passion is the tenacity and grit he honed on the hockey rink. These very attributes translate seamlessly into his professional life, where he prioritizes achieving outcomes that empower both clients and employees. His unwavering commitment to fostering a robust team and delivering exceptional client service fuels his ambition to establish the preeminent insurance practice in the Americas.
Eschewing the conventional path of relentless competition, Sivakumar carves his own path, setting aspirational goals that achieve a harmonious work-life balance. He doesn’t chase empty titles; his drive stems from a deeper purpose. Inspired by the potential to make a positive societal impact, Sivakumar is laser-focused on leveraging technology and transformative solutions to revolutionize insurance in America. His ultimate goal? To ensure that Americans have access to better insurance at affordable costs, effectively addressing the pressing issue of exorbitant insurance premiums. Professionally, he envisions Cognizant Insurance practice scaling the pinnacle of IT service providers with sustained growth and offerings. On a personal level, his aspirations lie in becoming a future philanthropist, giving back to the community that shaped him with the support of his wife and daughter
Sivakumar’s illustrious career is a testament to his accomplishments, including his rise to the coveted position of Vice President and Head of Insurance Delivery for a leading IT service provider. His trophy cabinet boasts prestigious accolades such as the Man of Excellence Award 2022-23 from the Indian Achievers Forum and the ET Inspiring Leaders Award 2023 in the field of Information Technology (Insurance).
For Sivakumar, leadership is not merely about wielding authority; it’s about being a visionary who sets clear goals and guides teams with transparency and integrity. He believes true leaders inspire and empower others to become leaders themselves, creating a ripple effect that propels the industry forward. He champions fostering a positive impact in every endeavor, cultivating vibrant and engaging work environments, and striking a harmonious balance between professional ambition and purposeful life.
Beyond the boardroom, Sivakumar is a man driven by a strong sense of community. He actively mentors young professionals, sharing the wisdom gleaned from his own journey. He believes in the power of giving back, dedicating time and resources to charitable causes focused on education and elderly care.. This commitment to social responsibility reflects the values instilled in him during his formative years, proving that success can be measured not just by financial metrics, but also by the positive impact one leaves on the world.
Looking ahead, Sivakumar remains energized by the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. With his unwavering dedication, collaborative spirit, and commitment to innovation, he is poised to make a lasting impact on the insurance industry and the lives of many.
CAPTION
Blossoming from the humble beginnings of the Indian Soil, this is a story that evolves into an inspiring journey to the pinnacle of Insurance Technology! Sivakumar Deivacikamani is a force to reckon with in the world of IT, who has made significant strides with his visionary leadership! Discover the entire story in Passion Vista’s Latest Edition of Most Admired Global Indians of 2024!