Name: Amith Vijayan

Title: Engineer

Oranisation: Kerala State Electricity Board Lrd

Amith Vijayan is not just a Power System Engineer; he's a visionary on a mission to transform the electricity sector with boundless enthusiasm and groundbreaking innovations. His global expertise in the energy realm is not just a career but a passionate journey, marked by his role at the Kerala State Electricity Board Limited and the successful acquisition of his own data security startup in 2013. Amith's dynamic leadership has been a linchpin in the energy sector, where he's executed diverse responsibilities with unwavering precision and expertise. Recognized internationally as a luminary in power systems and energy, Amith radiates positivity and inspiration as he shares his insights at prestigious conferences and serves as a guest faculty at esteemed national and international institutions. Beyond professional achievements, Amith's heart beats for creating a brighter, more sustainable energy future. With an infectious optimism, he strives to elevate efficiency, bolster reliability, and empower communities worldwide by providing them with access to clean and affordable energy. Amith Vijayan is not just advancing an industry; he's igniting a spark for positive change that reverberates globally.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Amith's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

My most demanding aspect of leadership has been balancing embracing innovation and upholding established practices. Adopting new technologies and methodologies in the ever-changing field of electrical engineering is essential, but it often means navigating resistance to change. To overcome this challenge, I have focused on fostering open communication, fostering a deep understanding of team dynamics, and demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning. By consistently demonstrating the benefits of innovation, I have inspired my team to embrace a culture of adaptability and forward-thinking, propelling us to the forefront of the energy sector.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My journey into leadership has been an organic evolution driven by hands-on experience, a relentless pursuit of excellence, and a passion for shaping positive change. The seeds of my leadership were sown by my father, Vijayan M R, who instilled in me the values of hard work, integrity, and a commitment to making a difference. My mother, Anitha Vijayan, has been a pillar of support throughout my journey, providing me with unwavering love and encouragement. My wife, Abhina M, and brother, Ahijith Vijayan, are constant sources of strength and inspiration, and I am deeply grateful for their unwavering belief in me.

The entrepreneurial spirit ignited within me with the co-founding of Innovador Technologies, where I honed my leadership skills amidst the challenges and triumphs of steering a startup. This venture equipped me with resilience and a strategic mindset, laying the foundation for my subsequent role as an Electrical Engineer at the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), where I delved into the intricacies of power systems. Recognizing the urgent need for innovation, I actively engaged in industry events, becoming a sought-after speaker on crucial topics like clean energy, loss reduction, and theft management. This continuous learning journey, marked by adaptability and a collaborative spirit, has transformed me into a leader committed to advancing the energy sector and cultivating a culture of innovation within my teams.

Along the way, I have been fortunate to have the support and mentorship of exceptional friends and colleagues. These individuals have played a pivotal role in my growth and development, and I am deeply grateful for their guidance and friendship. I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Sujath I M, Assistant Executive Engineer of KSEB, for her unwavering support and care throughout my professional journey. Her insights and encouragement have been invaluable to me, and I am truly grateful for her mentorship. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping me into the leader I am today.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

While I may appear to have a more leisurely start to my day, my commitment to success is unwavering. I strategically plan my mornings for personal development and strategic planning, allowing me to ease into the day with a clear focus and ample energy. This deliberate approach ensures optimal productivity and effectiveness throughout the workday, enabling me to pursue my professional goals with unwavering determination. My routine also incorporates dedicated time for continuous learning, ensuring I remain at the forefront of industry trends and innovations. This commitment to growth fuels my passion for inspiring others and shaping positive change within my field.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for my overall success. I cherish the time spent with my family and friends, as these relationships provide me with the support and nourishment I need to excel in all aspects of my life. Their unwavering belief in me serves as a constant source of motivation, and their presence in my life reminds me that true success is found not only in professional achievements but also in the meaningful connections we make with others.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A leadership lesson that has profoundly impacted me is the significance of adaptability. I was reminded that even the most meticulously crafted plans can face unforeseen challenges. Embracing change and adapting swiftly are essential leadership qualities. This lesson reinforced the importance of cultivating a flexible mindset within my team, encouraging innovative problem-solving, and maintaining agility in the face of evolving circumstances. It serves as a valuable reminder that true leadership flourishes in navigating uncertainty with resilience and adaptability.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

Simon Sinek's, "Start with Why," truly impacted my leadership journey by challenging me to delve into the essence of effective leadership – the importance of purpose. Sinek's exploration of the 'Golden Circle' concept, emphasizing the primacy of 'why' over 'what' or 'how,' triggered a paradigm shift in my approach to leadership. This newfound clarity refined my strategic thinking and inspired a more purpose-driven leadership style. The book's insights served as a guiding light, reminding me that a clear and compelling 'why' is the cornerstone of effective leadership, fostering engagement, loyalty, and sustainable success. It has become my constant reference point, reminding me that true leadership lies in inspiring others to align their actions with a shared purpose, driving meaningful change, and achieving extraordinary results.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

If I could offer something to a young leader, it would be to cultivate an unwavering passion for learning. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and never lose your hunger for knowledge. Continuous improvement is the hallmark of a great leader, and adaptability is the key to navigating the ever-evolving landscape of today's world. Learning is a lifelong journey, and each experience, whether a triumph or a stumble, contributes to your leadership evolution. So, never cease exploring, remain open to new perspectives, and embrace a mindset that values both success and the invaluable lessons embedded within failure.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

A pivotal moment in my leadership journey occurred during the 7th Electricity Loss Reduction & Theft Management Summit in Singapore. My session not only garnered applause but also sparked meaningful discussions among the summit audience, leading to the adoption of the proposed ideas within their organizations worldwide. This experience opened doors to dozens of opportunities, highlighting the practical impact of the strategies discussed. Additionally, my participation as a panelist earned accolades from industry experts and leaders, reinforcing the power of collaborative efforts in addressing challenges within the energy sector.