Empowering the next generation of Data Science and AI Leaders
A transformative force in Data Science and AI, Sundar Krishnan has led significant projects at Fortune 50 companies, driven innovation, optimized processes, and achieved substantial cost savings. Recognized for his strategic vision and ability to lead diverse teams, Sundar has also created the Data Science Academy, authored the book ‘Applied Data Science using PySpark’, and mentors professionals and students regularly.
Currently, he’s leading healthcare innovation as Senior AI/ML Manager at CVS Health, Texas, USA. His expertise has seen him inducted as a Judge at multiple awards; a Fellow in Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence & Top Tier Impact; and a Member in exclusive invite only councils – Data Science Leadership Council from Workforce Institute, and Executive Fellow at The Digital Economist.
Born in India, Sundar’s Data Science and AI journey began with his Master’s at Oklahoma State University, US where Dr. Goutam Chakraborty’s courses ignited his passion for the field. Later, he joined Comcast through a career fair which proved a defining opportunity. Working with industry experts, he immersed himself in the world of AI-driven business decisions, witnessing first-hand their impact on business outcomes.
From the outset, he focused on efficiency improvements. He led efforts to automate Machine Learning processes which saved 80% of Data Scientists’ time and millions in overhead costs. His proudest achievement was creating the Data Science Academy, developing course content and teaching employees without a Data Science background. This initiative became a huge success which evolved into a Center of Excellence for mentoring new employees. Later, he laid the foundation for Comcast Enterprise Business Intelligence innovation team, leveraging cutting-edge AI/ML technologies for internal applications.
When Covid-19 hit, he pivoted to healthcare, joining CVS Health. There, he continued his AI/ML passion, mentoring internal employees and sharing his expertise. Seeking a broader audience, he began mentoring through Topmate and Adplist in 2024, and became a top 1% mentor on Topmate in a short stint.
How would Sundar define his leadership style, we ask him. “Leadership comes in many forms, but the qualities that truly stand out are the ability to actively listen to employees, offer support and advice tailored to their needs, and give credit where it is due,” he answers.
He adds that his inspiration largely comes from his family and friends. Being a first-generation college graduate, his parents have been unwavering in their trust and support, without which he wouldn’t have graduated or made it to the US. Equally significant is his maternal uncle, who coached Sundar through his early career decisions, shaping who he is.
Today, his wife is a major support, without whom he couldn’t have written his book during the pandemic. His friends too have been pillars of strength in all critical decisions, often stepping in as mentors when needed.
“Growing up in a family where finances were tight, I witnessed the sacrifices my parents made to support my education. Such dedication has instilled in me a deep commitment to assist others in their educational journeys. The royalties from my book go directly to educational charities, and I offer free mentorship programs to reach as many people as possible. In the future, I plan to create content on accessible platforms like YouTube and Medium to reach an even wider audience of students and professionals. My long-term vision is to build a comprehensive resource network for those who lack access to formal mentorship or guidance.”
Sundar’s ability to impact and transform has seen him honored at prestigious forums:
1) Rookie of the Quarter at Comcast for improving ML performance and making the business profitable within 3 months of joining the Fortune 40 company.
2) Enterprise Excellence Award for automating AI/ML process to save 80% of time for each Data Scientist, saving millions of dollars for Comcast.
3) Analytics and Behavior Change Generative AI Hack-a-thon winner for creating a synthetic data product ensuring patient privacy.
4) AI/ML award from Global Recognition Awards.
5) Outstanding Contribution to AI at the AIconics Awards USA 2024
6) Emerging Leader in AI & Data Analytics in Healthcare and Hospitals from Asian African Leadership awards
7) International Achievers Award from IAF
A high-powered professional as well as a family man, Sundar strikes a balance by following the Pomodoro technique, committing to tasks with regular breaks to stay energized and recharged.
In his personal time, he mixes up activities to stay balanced and engaged. “I love playing with my kid or taking him for walks. On weekends, I play cricket with my friends. Movies come next in the list that helps me unplug and relax. I also delve into non-fiction books on time management, leadership, and habits which help me discover new skills and provide valuable insights for my mentees. Recently, I’ve started listening to audiobooks and podcasts. I also follow several YouTube channels on finance to stay connected with current market trends.”
A veritable thought leader, Sundar sums up his mantra in one sentence: “Stay curious, stay committed, and stay compassionate.”
