Business leaders who excel in the areas of innovation, foresight, and strategic insight often propel their organizations to the forefront of market trends and technological advancements. These leaders are not merely administrators; they are visionaries who understand the nuances of their industries, anticipate shifts in consumer demands, and harness the potential of emerging technologies to drive growth and transformation.
Among such leaders is Paraj Vidyarthi, the Senior Vice President and Regional Head of Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, and BFSI at Tech Mahindra. Recognized as one of the Most Visionary Business Leaders to Watch, Paraj has demonstrated an exceptional ability to lead through change and deliver innovative solutions that redefine industry standards. His strategic initiatives in digital transformation and his dedication to leveraging Industry 4.0 technologies have distinguished him as a pioneer in his field, driving substantial growth and setting new benchmarks in every sector he touches.
Navigating the Japanese Market and Leading Large Deals
1. Leadership in Top IT Companies
Paraj Vidyarthi has held significant leadership positions in top-tier IT companies, demonstrating his capability to guide and innovate in dynamic environments. His journey has been marked by strategic vision and a forward-thinking approach, enabling him to excel in diverse roles.
2. Breaking into the Japanese Startup Landscape
Transitioning from established IT roles, Paraj Vidyarthi embarked on a challenging journey into the Japanese startup landscape. Understanding the complexities and cultural nuances of the local market, where new entrants often face challenges as GAIJIN (outsiders), he successfully brought several companies to Japan. Notable among these are VVDN Technologies in 2019 and PathPartner in 2021, both of which he helped establish from the ground up.
3. Success Stories: VVDN Technologies and PathPartner
Under Paraj’s leadership, VVDN Technologies has made significant inroads into Japan’s IoT, automotive, and 5G markets, partnering with major players like Rakuten and appliance manufacturers. PathPartner, on the other hand, has thrived in the IoT, semiconductor, and automotive sectors, focusing on ADAS, autonomous systems, and in-cabin technologies. Their clientele includes top-tier companies such as Denso, Aisin, Macnica, and Renesas.
5. Recognition and Vision
Paraj Vidyarthi is recognized as one of the Most Visionary Business Leaders to Watch. As the Senior Vice President and Regional Head of Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, and BFSI at Tech Mahindra, he has shown exceptional ability to lead through change and deliver innovative solutions that redefine industry standards.
6. The Large Deal Maker
Renowned for his expertise in securing large and strategic deals, Paraj Vidyarthi is celebrated as a Large Deal Maker. His recent accomplishment at Tech Mahindra includes securing a global landmark deal worth $150 million—a SAP global rollout deal with a Japanese automotive conglomerate. This achievement has generated significant buzz within the IT community worldwide.
Paraj Vidyarthi’s journey is a testament to his leadership, strategic vision, and ability to navigate complex markets. From breaking into the Japanese startup scene to securing monumental deals, Paraj continues to make significant contributions to the IT industry, establishing himself as a formidable leader and innovator.
Paraj was heading Engineering companies as Regional Country head for APAC at Pathpartner and acted as advisor to various Indian IT companies. He was offered a Strategic position as a SVP & Regional Head by the APAC and Japan business leaders while he was acting as an Advisor for this deal with Tech Mahindra and joined the company from August 2023 to lead company into a Landslide win against 14 Top Notch Giants like Accenture, Deloitte, PWC, HCL, Wipro,TCS, etc. This was a commendable win for an Indian IT company against the Western IT Giants.
Building Expertise & Driving Growth
Paraj brings 23 years of expertise in APAC and global markets, characterized by his profound knowledge and native-level fluency in Japanese. As a seasoned revenue and P&L owner, he has catalyzed substantial growth and transformation across diverse industries, including automotive, manufacturing, semiconductors, and BFSI, underscoring his multifaceted leadership capabilities. His extensive background includes building and leading local teams, effectively planning and executing sales strategies for large accounts, managing mega accounts, and fostering key account relationships.
Paraj Vidyarthi has held senior management roles and led local and regional teams for top-tier technology companies such as HCL, Wipro, Polaris, and NTT Data. He specializes in various industries, from manufacturing and automotive to telecommunications, retail, banking, financial products and services, and healthcare. His technological expertise spans enterprise IT streams—including application, consulting, and managed services—and engineering streams like semiconductors, embedded systems, and electronics. Moreover, Paraj has established a robust ecosystem of regional and global partners in GTM areas, product, and delivery alliances and has built top-tier relationships in diplomatic circles, advising the Indian Embassy, IITAJ, INBCC, and other influential entities.
He began his career in the automotive sector at Yamaha Motors, where his frequent travels to Japan enriched his understanding of Japanese management methodologies such as TPM, TQC, QC Circle, Poka-Yoke, Kaizen, and more. His early career achievements include significant projects like Assembly SPR improvement, TPM implementation, the Philippines Taxi project, and the successful development of the Crux-R model. Transitioning to the IT industry, he joined Aithent Technologies before moving to HCL Technologies, where he reported to industry leaders such as Anil Gupta, MD & CEO of the HCL-NEC Joint Venture. This mentorship further broadened his industry and domain expertise, particularly in embedded systems, engineering, and software products and services, propelling his journey as a business leader.
Education & Certifications
Paraj Vidyarthi holds a Master of Business Administration in Sales & Marketing Management from Amity Business School, Tokyo, and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Delhi. His professional development is complemented by certifications in C# .NET, Oracle (OCA), DOEACC Level ‘O’, and programming in C & C++. Additionally, he has pursued an education in computer animation and graphics from the American Institute of Technology and holds an Advanced Diploma in Japanese from Delhi University along with other Japanese language certifications. His diverse educational background is further enriched by certifications in export management and documentation, as well as naturopathy and yoga, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and personal growth.
Innovating Futures
Established over 35 years ago, Tech Mahindra is a heritage brand known for pioneering systems, processes, and solutions for enterprise clients worldwide. At the nexus of transformative changes, the company introduces NXT.NOW™, signaling a commitment to shaping the future of industries. Tech Mahindra’s sustained success is rooted in a strategic approach encompassing three key pillars:
- Run: Operate systems and processes that align with current and prospective business objectives.
- Change: Adapt systems and processes to embrace evolutionary changes.
- Grow: Enhance client business value by offering distinctive solutions in a competitive market.
The company pledges to develop ambitious frameworks for partners aiming to become market leaders, providing comprehensive strategies and advisory services. The company addresses emerging technological trends—including 5G, cloud computing, AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity—placing itself at the forefront of the next wave of innovations.
Advanced Offerings
Tech Mahindra aligns its service offerings with customers’ evolving needs across various sectors. Their extensive portfolio includes Infrastructure and Cloud Services, Experience Design Services, and Business Process Services, which streamline and enhance IT architecture, user experiences, and process efficiencies. Additional services cover Network Services and Testing Services, ensuring reliable network infrastructure and software performance.
Further, Tech Mahindra offers Integrated Engineering Solutions, Performance Engineering, and specialized ERP Solutions, including SAP and Oracle, preparing businesses for the future with cutting-edge technology. Their advanced capabilities extend to Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, and Digital Supply Chain solutions. These services are complemented by Customer Experience, Intelligent Automation, and Sustainability initiatives, fortifying their commitment to driving innovation and excellence.
Progressive Leadership Journey
Paraj Vidyarthi’s career trajectory illustrates a remarkable ascent through the technology sector ranks, particularly within the Asia-Pacific region. Here’s an overview of his key milestones:
- 2000-2005: Engineering & Sales Foundations
At Escorts Yamaha Ltd in India, Paraj Vidyarthi initiated his career in production engineering, where he managed teams and spearheaded new model developments. He transitioned to HCL Technologies in Japan, sharpening his business development, sales, and account management skills, and successfully secured a strategic alliance with IBM.
- 2005-2014: BFSI & Embedded Technology Specialization
Continuing at HCL Technologies in Japan as a Senior Coordinator, Paraj enhanced his expertise in sales support, pre-sales activities, and client relationship management. At SRM Technologies, also in Japan, he shifted focus to managing automotive embedded Offshore Development Centers (ODCs), driving growth within key accounts. As Services Head/Account Director at Polaris Consulting & Services Ltd, he significantly expanded his BFSI client base.
- 2014-2019: APAC Growth Leadership
As a Polaris Enterprise Solutions Limited leader, Paraj Vidyarthi directed sales efforts, boosting revenue growth across both BFSI and non-BFSI sectors. At Wipro Limited, encompassing Japan and APAC, he broadened the client base in the automotive and manufacturing industries through new client acquisitions and expanding existing accounts. Moving to NTT Data Global Technology Services and NTT Data Intellilink Corporation in Japan, he undertook leadership roles overseeing MNC sales and propelled growth across diverse industries in APAC, Europe, and the US.
- 2019-Present: Regional Leadership
Joining VVDN Technologies as Country Sales Manager, Paraj Vidyarthi established local entities and expanded sales across the APAC region. At PathPartner Technology, he now serves as the Regional Country Head, leading the company’s expansion in Japan and APAC. In his current role as SVP, Regional Head of Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, BFSI at Tech Mahindra, Paraj applies his vast experience to steer the regional teams toward continued growth.
Leadership Excellence
Paraj embodies visionary leadership, consistently driving innovative deals and spearheading groundbreaking initiatives throughout his distinguished career. His strategic approach blends astute business development with sales tactics, establishing a robust market presence and generating substantial revenue streams. Notably adaptable, Paraj Vidyarthi excels across diverse environments and industries, showcasing resilience and a versatile skill set. He builds solid relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders, fostering collaboration for mutual success. Paraj’s innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities drive successful digital transformation projects and advance Industry 4.0 initiatives.
Furthermore, Paraj’s leadership ethos prioritizes setting an example, customer satisfaction, and empowering team members. This people-centric approach was demonstrated during the 2010 Japan Triple Disaster, where he courageously remained behind to evacuate 200 individuals, earning recognition for his selflessness. Committed to quality and customer-centricity, he believes in critical thinking, problem-solving, and delivering innovative solutions. He motivates and guides his team, entrusting them with responsibilities for collective success.
Distinguished Achievements
Paraj has been recognized throughout his professional career with numerous awards and honors that reflect his commitment to excellence. In the IT industry, he received the SPOT Excellence Award in May 2011 for his exceptional leadership and dedication during the turbulent times following the natural disasters in Japan in March 2011. His actions not only went beyond the call of duty but also ensured the safety of his associates during the earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disruption.
Later, in November 2011, Paraj Vidyarthi was honored with the MERLION Award for his strategic expansion of several key BFSI and Japanese MNC accounts across the APAC region. In January 2012, he received the prestigious KONARK Award from Polaris, recognizing a select few each year for world-class performance, discipline, and leadership. His exceptional sales achievements continued to be acknowledged when he was named BEST SALES PERSON OF THE YEAR in March 2012 for achieving 115% of the annual sales target and securing significant deals within top-level strategic accounts. In May 2014, he was awarded the LONG SERVICE Award after completing five years at Virtusa-Polaris.
Paraj earned the Regional Quality Award in the automotive industry for his leadership in successfully developing and launching the Yamaha Crux-R bike. This included ensuring the model’s clearance for mass production from the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and managing a smooth launch by addressing last-minute technical issues. Additionally, his leadership in training programs in Japan on production engineering and new model development has been highly lauded. Paraj Vidyarthi also played a key role in the TPM implementations for the machine shop and significantly improved the assembly SPR, elevating it from 33% to 70%, thereby enhancing overall quality.
Inspirational Family Legacy
Paraj’s extraordinary career is deeply rooted in a family legacy of integrity and service. His grandfather, Parameshwar Dayal Vidyarthi, was a notable participant in India’s freedom struggle alongside Mahatma Gandhi. The values of sacrifice and leadership exemplified by his grandfather profoundly shaped Paraj Vidyarthi’s values and principles.
His father, U. Vidyarthi, was not only an award-winning engineer and sportsman but also a steadfast opponent of corruption, facing numerous threats for standing against the mafia and a corrupt system. Paraj’s mother, a woman of strong principles, provided support during these challenging times, embodying dedication and resilience.
Paraj inherited qualities such as integrity, innovation, visionary leadership, and selflessness from these family influences. These traits have been fundamental to his impressive career trajectory. Paraj also credits his wife, Puneeta Singh Vidyarthi, an academic topper and a pillar of support, for playing a crucial role in his personal and professional life. Her accomplishments include supporting her brothers’ education in Japan, purchasing a house for her parents, and steadfastly supporting her family.
Nurturing Talent and Ownership
Paraj significantly emphasizes continuous learning and development within the ever-evolving business landscape. This commitment extends to his approach to team management. He actively collaborates with his team to identify their strengths and areas for improvement, fostering a culture of continuous growth. He empowers employees to enhance their skill sets through targeted training initiatives and remain ahead of industry trends.
Moreover, Paraj Vidyarthi advocates for promoting ownership among team members. Recognizing the importance of accountability, he entrusts individuals with ownership of their respective domains, fostering a sense of responsibility and driving team productivity. This approach empowers individuals and contributes to the overall success of the team and the organization.
Personal Preferences
Apart from work, Paraj enjoys reading, chess, table tennis, and playing guitar. His favorite books include “Fountainhead,” “Good to Great,” and “Built to Last.” He prefers traveling to Europe and Australia and relishes Indian and Japanese cuisines. These hobbies and preferences offer a balanced perspective to Paraj’s life alongside his professional commitments.
Guiding Perspective
Paraj offers a compelling perspective for aspiring leaders. He sees the region as a hotbed of innovation, with industries like automotive, IoT, and semiconductors driving significant growth, particularly on the India-Japan axis. Paraj Vidyarthi emphasizes deep diving into the local context to succeed in the Asian market. “Going global requires going local,” he says, urging leaders to immerse themselves in the language and cultural nuances of the market.
“To succeed, leaders should constantly learn, empower, and motivate their teams and maintain strong ethics and integrity,” – Paraj Vidyarthi.
