CP Gurnani

Former CEO and MD, Tech Mahindra
Chairman Mahindra Holidays

Introducing Mr. CP Gurnani, a prominent leader revered for his impactful contributions across both corporate and social spheres, shaping the landscape of education and philanthropy. Currently holding key positions as the Chairman of Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Limited (MHRIL) and an Independent Director at UpGrad, a leading EdTech firm, CP stands as an entrepreneur and trailblazer in revolutionizing education with a keen focus on upskilling and reskilling.

With an illustrious career spanning industry giants like Tech Mahindra, Hewlett Packard Ltd., Perot Systems (India) Ltd., and HCL Corporation Ltd., CP’s journey is distinguished by significant milestones, notably his instrumental role in orchestrating the landmark acquisition and merger of Satyam, a testament to his strategic prowess and leadership acumen. His exceptional contributions have garnered widespread recognition, including the prestigious ‘CEO’s Choice Lifetime Achievement Award’ bestowed upon him by the SKOCH Group and the CEO’s Association for Inclusive India (CAII) in 2021, marking a pinnacle of achievement in his illustrious career. He has also been featured in a Harvard Case Study on ‘Tech Mahindra and the Acquisition of Satyam Computers.’

However, CP’s impact transcends corporate corridors, as he channels his passion towards driving social transformation and giving back to the community. Through his involvement with esteemed organizations like the Mohan Foundation and Feeding Hands in Jaipur, and his co-founding of the ‘Titliyan’ NGO alongside his wife Anita, CP embodies a steadfast commitment to uplifting underprivileged communities. Through ‘Titliyan,’ he leads initiatives aimed at providing quality education and nurturing life and social skills among disadvantaged children, reflecting his unwavering dedication to creating meaningful impact beyond financial metrics.

With an unwavering spirit and a profound dedication to making a positive difference, CP Gurnani continues to inspire others to invest their time and efforts towards the betterment of humanity and society, leaving an enduring legacy of leadership and philanthropy.

He is the recipient of many prestigious awards including:

  • ‘People-Focused CEO of the Year’ award at The Economic Times Human Capital Awards 2023
  • ‘Outstanding Citizens Award’ by Sindhi Chamber of Commerce 2023
  • ‘CEO of the Year’ award at the Raymond CEO Forum India Awards 2022
  • ‘Most Inspiring Business Leader of Asia’ at The Economic Times Asian Business Leaders Conclave 2022
  • ‘Business Icon of India’ by Zee Business in 2022
  • CEO’s Choice ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ by SKOCH Group and CAII in 2021
  • ‘Icon of India’ recognition by VARINDIA in 2021
  • ‘Influential Leader of New India’ by CNN News 18 in 2021
  • ‘Inspiring CEO’ at The Economic Times CEO Conclave 2021
  • ‘Leader of the Year’ in IT at CEO Today Magazine Middle East Awards 2021
  • ‘Technology Icon of India’ recognition by VARINDIA Brand book 2020
  • Business Today ‘Best CEO’ Awards (IT & ITES category) 2019
  • ‘Corporate Leader of the Year’ Award – 14th (I-ACE) Awards 2018.
  • Gold Winner in the ‘CEO of the Year’ for his organization’s wide reskilling initiative
  • Asia One Global Indian of the Year – Technology’ in 2016
  • Listed among the top 100 global CEOs as part of The Wall Street Journal CEO Council 2016

The Next Gen: DISRUPTION

Economic Disruption: We live in an era of disruption in which powerful global forces are changing how we live and work. Powerful disruptions are changing our world. The gig economy, remote work, and the sharing economy have disrupted traditional employment models. The new generation is often at the forefront of these economic changes, seeking flexibility and independence in their careers.

Technological Disruption: The new generation is witnessing rapid technological advancements and digital transformation. They are at the forefront of embracing and driving these changes, leading to disruptions in various industries. Examples include the rise of blockchain, artificial intelligence, and the gig economy. Frontier technologies such as the Internet of Things, smart robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence are boosting productivity growth, raising prosperity, and replacing mundane or dangerous tasks. They have the potential to do good across a wide range of domains, from healthcare to education

Cultural Disruption: Social movements and changing cultural norms are disrupting traditional societal structures. The new generation is actively involved in advocating for gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice, challenging the status quo and pushing for more inclusive societies. The connection between resilience, equity and inclusion is widely accepted by policymakers: evidence has shown that creating more equitable and inclusive societies is a crucial part of any economic strategy focused on resilience and recovery.

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The Next Gen: DEVELOPMENT

Skill Development: The new generation places a strong emphasis on personal growth and development. They prioritize continuous learning, self-improvement, and mental well-being. Tools like online courses, self-help apps, and social networks play a significant role in their development journey. It is important to have a conversation about how to begin closing the gap between what our students are learning and what the demands of the workforce will be once they enter. Half of us will need to reskill in the next five years, as the "double disruption" of the economic impacts of the pandemic and increasing automation transforming jobs takes hold.

Sustainable Development: This generation of leaders bears the responsibility of preserving and advancing the legacies of their businesses while actively championing sustainable practices across businesses, governments, local communities, and personal lifestyle changes to secure a brighter future for the planet. Sustainability, the buzzword across the world today, will have to take on a new avatar and become the soul of every organization - business or otherwise. Businesses cannot succeed in societies that fail.

Social Development: The next generation is deeply rooted in creating positive change in society by incorporating CSR, promoting digital literacy, improving access to quality education, and supporting public health initiatives. Smart living is about adapting the fruits of technology through models that are scalable, profitable and, importantly, ecologically and socially more sustainable.

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The Next Gen: DIVERSIFICATION

Geographical Diversification: The prime focus of the new-gen leaders will be on a geographic diversification strategy, either domestically or internationally, aiming to integrate its products and services as a routine in consumers’ lifestyles. This will mitigate the risks associated with regional economic fluctuations. In an interconnected world, diversity, shaped by globalization and technological advances, forms the fabric of modern society.

Business Diversification: The strategic expansion and diversification of businesses with investments in newer business avenues, will enhance the return on investment, reflecting the forward-thinking approach of the next-generation leaders' eagerness to innovate. Companies are discovering that, by supporting and promoting diverse products and services, they are gaining benefits that go beyond the optics.

Workforce Diversification: To achieve geographical and business diversification, the next generation of leaders will aim at prioritizing workforce diversity, to boost job growth and create together a multitude of ideas and perspectives, igniting innovation and creativity. In times of increasing disruption and uncertainty, companies need to continue to prioritize diversity and inclusiveness (D&I) for the benefit of their culture — and their bottom line.

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