The 2024 Leaders in Technology Consulting: Swami Chandrasekaran

Swami Chandrasekaran (Swami) is a transformative technology executive and visionary with over 24 years of experience leading enterprise-wide AI, digital, and cloud transformations. His expertise lies in driving impactful change and delivering measurable business impact. Currently serving as a Principal at KPMG's AI & Digital Innovation, Swami leads a world-class AI Center of Excellence, driving the transformation and systematic adoption of AI at scale for KPMG.

Swami's technological leadership and architectural expertise is showcased in groundbreaking products & platforms such as the award-winning KRIS Connected Platform for Medicaid and the development of a Conversational AI system for a leading US healthcare provider. With a deep understanding of multi-cloud environments, FinOps, data mesh, Trusted AI, AI-powered contact centers, and modern data platforms, Swami brings a comprehensive skill set to the table. His contributions to building IBM Watson during his tenure at IBM earned him the prestigious appointment of IBM Distinguished Engineer, recognizing his significant advancements in shaping Watson.

As a prolific inventor, Swami holds over 30 patents and has been recognized as an IBM Master Inventor. He is also a published author in the realm of applied AI and BPM, and a regular speaker at conferences.

What has been the biggest factor in your success so far?

I attribute it to what I call the 'CLAF' pillars. First, a relentless curiosity that drives me to explore newer and emerging technologies hands-on, way before they hit mainstream. Second, a dedication to constant learning—and unlearning—keeping me innovative and relevant by embracing new skills, learning from mistakes, and shedding obsolete ones. Third, maintaining authenticity in my work, knowledge, and interactions, which builds trust and credibility in professional interactions. Lastly, the unwavering support of my family, particularly my wife, has been my bedrock providing the stability and focus necessary for my professional endeavors.

What do you enjoy most about your career in the consulting industry?

What I enjoy most about consulting is the endless variety and kaleidoscope of challenges to solve complex problems at the intersection of business and technology. It is intellectually invigorating to work with diverse technologies, applying them to solve real-world client problems. For instance, it's rare to find roles like mine, where I get to guide hundreds of clients through AI adoption. Witnessing the transformative impact of my work—and my teams'—on these businesses is deeply gratifying. Consulting offers a comprehensive experience spanning sales, product management, engineering, delivery, and customer success. Plus, working in over 25 countries has enriched my perspective on global business and cultural subtleties, fueling my mantra of continuous improvement.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

My proudest professional achievement is undoubtedly my role in transforming IBM Watson from a research project into an era-defining commercial product. I was handpicked in 2012 to join the elite team tasked with commercializing Watson technology. And this was a turning point in my career. Our collective work in expanding the horizons of AI had a far-reaching impact. My contributions and leadership towards developing Watson and aiding enterprises in leveraging this technology for complex problem-solving was pivotal. For these I was appointed an IBM Distinguished Engineer, that was a testament to my technological contributions and advancements in shaping Watson. This recognition is among the highest technical honors in IBM. This journey, from my early days with a basic PC to shaping the AI landscape, this achievement feels surreal. Equally rewarding was my appointment and becoming a Partner at KPMG, marking my significant influence and contributions in the tech consulting arena. My journey embodies a legacy of bold innovation and leadership across the AI and consulting sectors worldwide.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

The most impactful advice I've received came from a mentor who said, "Create and nurture mini-Swami's, but aim to make them a hundredfold better than you could ever be." This advice has profoundly shaped my leadership style, focusing on empowering others to surpass their limits. I've learned to view my career as a long marathon, prioritizing deeds over words, and the value of a trusted board of advisors on whose shoulders I can sit. Yet, it's the advice on family from a cherished manager that resonates the deepest: 'In the end, you cherish not the overtime or projects, but moments with family.' This wisdom continually reminds me to balance professional ambitions with the true riches of life – my family's happiness and well-being."

What does this recognition mean to you?

It is immensely honoring and deeply meaningful. It embodies the ethos of good karma: "Do your duty, and a little more, and the future will take care of itself." This recognition is not just a personal accolade; it's a beacon of inspiration for my team, my mentees, and others, proving that lofty goals are within reach with dedication and excellence. Personally, it is a matter of pride for my daughters, showing them that grit and excellence are not merely ideals but attainable realities.