A sneak peek into my career, spanning over 25 years and 5 countries.
The early years – 1998 to 2010
Various Consultant Roles
Process and Technology working together
Started as a Software Engineer in 1998. Didn’t take long to realize it wasn’t for me. I wanted to get under the hood, dig into the processing layers, and explore the networking protocols. My early years as an Infrastructure Consultant were all about building the foundations of technology.
Then came a game-changer: working at Zensar and getting the chance to work for Citibank in Singapore. I saw firsthand how processes and technology meshed together, long before ITIL and ITSM became buzzwords. Next up was a management role in the UK with Fulcrum, a National Grid subsidiary. Some say when you turn a great techie into a manager, it’s all downhill from there. Well, well, well!
Head of Technology (BPO)
Outsourcing technology does work
Never thought I could do this. I knew how telephony worked, but contact center technology? Oh boy, oh boy! That was a different beast altogether. And what a snapped submarine cable can do to a call center is a story for another time! Built some great contact centers globally, including one in Belfast. Memorable!!
The mastery years – 2010 to 2021
Infrastructure Manager
Fit for purpose healthcare technology
With a long-term vision, commitment to excellence I addressed long standing technology, service delivery issues and risks. The goal was clear – get the bast bang for the bucks for taxpayers’ money. From legacy to modern. From failing to steady. From a team that was tired, to totally energized. Loved it!!
Head of Infrastructure
Technology at scale
Leading one of New Zealand’s biggest infrastructures at Spark was an incredible experience. Juggling countless systems and tech, I balanced the future’s demands with keeping everything running smoothly. The best part? Leading amazing teams and handling multimillion-dollar projects. Nearly a decade at the top ISP and Digital Service Provider in the country. What a ride – unforgettable!
2021 and beyond
Head of Product
Technology, Education and Equity
It was time to let go. I had mastered technology infrastructure. So, what next? The focus shifted to business, customers, margins, funding, strategy, and governance. The long game. Tackling the tough questions and solving complex problems became my new challenge.
Education is the key to growth, not just for individuals but for society as a whole. Technology is the enabler. And equity -providing equal opportunity, regardless of background. Bringing these together is purposeful. Finding clarity in complexity? That’s where it gets truly meaningful.
Voluntary Board Roles
Giving back through Digital Equity and Inclusion
TUANZ is a not-for-profit association for technology users. It has a bold vision – that by 2033 all New Zealanders will have access to technology and services to thrive. It takes digital equity to a much broader level – the infrastructure level.
Recycle A Device (RAD) is special. It combines technology, community, sustainability and education. It is a small step towards digital equity. As a kaitiaki my role is to guide, connect and empower the RAD operational team.
Sid Kumar 