Sarath Chandran

About Sarath Chandran

Global C-level technology executive with over 25 years of experience driving digital transformation, engineering excellence, and innovation across aviation, shipping, logistics, and deep-tech industries spanning India, the US, New Zealand, Denmark, the UK, Australia, and the Middle East. Experienced in building and scaling world-class R&D and product engineering centers, leading AI and cloud-native portfolios, and delivering high-impact technology solutions that bridge the digital divide and create measurable business value.Possesses a unique blend of expertise across technology and business consulting, coupled with digital leadership experience in both global enterprises and technology-driven startups. Known for creating scalable architectures and strategies, fostering innovation, and translating business vision into executable technology outcomes. Demonstrated success in leading AI and data modernization programs, designing multi-cloud and edge platforms, and enabling agile, secure, and efficient digital ecosystems that accelerate growth and operational excellence.Recognized for building and mentoring high-performing, cross-functional teams and for navigating complex, cross-cultural business landscapes with clarity, collaboration, and purpose. Combines strategic foresight with hands-on execution to deliver transformation programs that integrate architecture, data, and AI to solve real-world challenges. Passionate about leveraging emerging technologies - AI, IoT, 5G, Drones, Cameras, Satellite Internet and edge computing - to connect, empower, and deliver innovation that drives both enterprise performance and societal impact.

Experience

1. Md & Head of India R & d Gcc

   Armada

   Jan 2024 — Present · Thiruvananthapuram, IN

   Product & Engineering LeadershipLeading innovation and delivery of advanced technology products and industry solutions from Armada’s India R&D Center. Drove the development of three key product lines—a SaaS platform for managing edge connectivity assets, a rugged and energy-efficient modular data center extending cloud capabilities to the edge, and a suite of real-time AI applications that create value at the source of data generation. Scaled high-performing teams, accelerated feature velocity, and delivered products that fueled exponential customer and revenue growth, while fostering a culture of innovation, engineering excellence, and solution-centric thinking that bridges the digital divide through Industry 4.0 technologies such as AI, IoT, 5G, drones, cameras, and satellite internet.Established & Scaled India R&D OperationsSpearheaded the launch of Armada’s India R&D Center, built a world-class team of 150+ engineers, product managers, and designers. Built a strong, high-caliber engineering and product leadership team that continues to drive innovation, excellence, and impact at scale. Established India operations from the ground up—covering legal setup, licensing, regulatory compliance, office build-out, and creation of cross-functional support functions (HR, Finance, Admin, IT) and shared services teams—positioning India as a critical hub for Armada’s global growth. Built a strong operations leadership team that continues to drive operational excellence, efficiency, and scalability across Armada’s India and global operations.Member of the Board of Directors, Armada IndiaProvided strategic leadership and corporate governance across India operations, ensuring alignment with global objectives, regulatory compliance, and effective legal, financial, and operational decision-making.

Education

• Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Management Information Systems, General

• Cochin University of Science and Technology

  Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.), Mechanical Engineering

  1996 — 2000