For many, the allure of technology lies in its ever-evolving nature and the promise of innovation. In this narrative, we delve into the personal and professional journey of Krithika Bhat whose path into the realm of technology was marked by serendipity, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of growth. From humble beginnings as a programmer analyst in India to assuming the prestigious role of Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Pure Storage, her story is a testament to the transformative power of seizing opportunities and navigating challenges in the dynamic landscape of technology.
Tell us about what got you interested in technology, why did you choose the space and the field of technology?
I hadn’t planned to work in IT at the outset, but once I decided to, I’ve never looked back. My first job, fresh out of university, was as a programmer analyst with Tata Consultancy Services in India. It was a fantastic training ground for me — an intense training boot camp followed by software development and support projects in India and overseas helped me get a solid foundation.
This introduction came through the university campus recruitment. I’d done a programming course as part of my engineering degree which I had enjoyed and the role they were interviewing for seemed like an interesting opportunity, so I interviewed and took up the offer. Within a year I was working on a project in Switzerland, having never left my home country before. It was an amazing experience. I think this proves the point that I like to make, that, when opportunity knocks, grab it with both hands.
Could you share your journey in technology, the challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
I was with TCS for over six years, before moving to Toronto, Canada for personal reasons.
Looking back on it, this period was critical in my future career development. While waiting for my work papers to be issued, I had a forced hiatus with no professional network to speak of, during that time, I pushed myself to become a better networker — something that didn’t come naturally to me.
This paid dividends, not only at the time but ever since.
With my Canadian work permit in order, I took up another consultancy role at SHL System House Limited. This allowed me to work with different technologies and develop my analysis skills building on the foundation gained at TCS.
After four years I moved to Silicon Valley and joined Oracle Corporation in their Applications IT organization, where I was for 26 years. I quickly rose to a management role, ultimately becoming Group Vice President running a 600+ Applications IT org focused on internal ERP, HCM and EPM solutions.
Two years ago, my career journey continued with an exciting new chapter, when I assumed the CIO role at Pure Storage to run Pure IT, three months after joining the company. Pure IT is part of the Digital Transformation Group (DTG).
What is your take on women in technology and how is the landscape changing? What can be done to ensure there are more women in tech roles?
While there is still much work to be done to create equitable experiences for all people in tech, there have been a few areas of change that make me hopeful that we’re on the right track. For example, more women are in leadership positions and on boards in the tech industry. There is also a bigger push for the next generation of girls to engage in STEM early and often, helped by companies sponsoring programmes within schools and colleges.
We still have a long way to go, but acknowledging the issues and the initial steps that have been taken point to a positive future — and that’s something to be excited about. There are many reasons to be positive right now if you’re a woman in the IT industry!
What is the biggest obstacle that women in technology face?
This is a combination of multiple factors and also varies depending on what stage a woman is in her career. For example, for many women, a few years in, just when their career is about to take off they have to make tough choices between family and career priorities.
Whilst there is now a growing understanding of the challenges women face and steps being taken to actively address them, unconscious bias is something that women in all stages of their career face.
I have experienced many times attending meetings where the speakers “forget” to make eye contact and address the woman in the room even if she is the acknowledged expert. Each of us needs to be self-aware and make an effort to prevent this.
What advice would you give women?
If something scares you, say yes to it! In the early stages of my career, I used to be terrified of public speaking but I realised this was career limiting: by pushing myself to get out of my comfort zone, I could eventually break through that barrier and find enjoyment in it.
Also — network and join a mentorship programme. You will meet interesting people who can help you now and in the future. You will also be able to pay it forward one day by passing on advice to the next generation of women in the technology industry.
