Shocking Move: Wipro Hands Over Engineering Edge to Srikumar Rao as Global Head, Chauhan Bows Out

In a sudden turn of events, Wipro Limited has announced the appointment of Srikumar Rao as the new Global Head of its Engineering Edge Business Line, effective October 5, 2024. But what’s more astonishing is that Harmeet Chauhan, the outgoing head, is abandoning ship to pursue “opportunities outside the organization”. Who’s really calling the shots here?

Rao, a 26-year veteran of Wipro, has been quietly climbing the corporate ladder, serving in various leadership roles. Most recently, he was the COO of Wipro Engineering Edge (WEE) and Global Practice Head of Embedded Systems. Has he been planning his power play all along?

Rao’s résumé boasts an impressive list of clients, from Software & Internet to Automotive and Communications. But will his leadership translate to real results for Wipro’s ER&D Services business? The company’s NPS scores have been industry-leading, but can Rao maintain this momentum?

“Srikumar’s dedication, technological expertise, and client-centric approach make him the perfect fit for this role,” says Srini Pallia, Wipro’s CEO and Managing Director. “He’s been instrumental in securing marquee deals and has significantly contributed to Wipro Engineering Edge’s success.” But has he been riding Chauhan’s coattails all along?

“I would like to thank Harmeet for his leadership, but let’s be real, he’s off to greener pastures,” says Pallia. “We wish him all the best, but Wipro’s Engineering Edge needs someone with Rao’s vision to take it to the next level.” Is this a case of Wipro trying to make a splash or is there more to the story?

Rao himself is gushing about his new role, saying, “I’m thrilled to lead Wipro’s Engineering Edge Business Line and take it to new heights. I’ve experienced immense pride in being part of Wipro’s transformation journey, and I’m excited to maximize the value we bring to clients.” But can he deliver on these lofty promises?

Srikumar Rao, the new Global Head of Wipro’s Engineering Edge Business Line, is a member of NASSCOM’s ER&D Executive Council. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering and has completed his Postgraduate Program in Software Enterprise Management. He’ll be based in Bengaluru, India. What does this mean for Wipro’s future in the ER&D space?