Name: Sridevi Koneru

Job Profile: Sridevi Koneru is Director and Head-Wireless Networking Business Unit (WNBU), India, an integral part of the Cisco Development Organization (CDO), responsible for driving growth in the APAC and emerging markets. In her previous role, Koneru led the VoIP and Wireless solutions engineering teams and was responsible for growing the adoption of voice and wireless in various Service Provider and Enterprise vertical segments. In addition, Koneru was also responsible for system test, quality assurance and customer support.

Background: Koneru joined Cisco with acquisition of StrataCom, a networking company, in 1995, and has developed a broad base of cross-functional and diverse technology and market experience during her tenure. She has a BS from Osmania University, MS in Computer Science from Santa Clara University, California and an MBA from Wharton, University of Pennsylvania.

First Job and Career: After her studies, Koneru attended several interviews at many companies during a time when the job market was not very strong. Her focus then was to get into the industry and gain real experience. Though she did not have much of an idea on what her interests were, core strengths and how to apply to business, she finally landed up in a job based on stability and cool video conferencing technology.

After a year in this job, she decided to pursue a job in StrataCom. She had majored in networking and was eager to work in the networking field.

Strengths: Koneru's biggest strength lies in her ability to quickly grasp the 'big picture', map vision to strategy and put strategy to execution. Her forte also includes keen sense of business and prioritization.

Family life and challenges: She has a 12-year-old daughter, Sunaina and 7-year-old boy, Nihar. After becoming mother, Koneru faced challenges with work-life balance. She achieved most success after taking to 'work-life integration' rather than 'balancing'.

Dealing with men at work: To date, Koneru has not paid attention to such a differentiation, and hence she doesn't try to be different. She believes work environment, which includes people from various backgrounds, should promote talent and meritocracy.

career advice to women corporate leaders: Koneru believes that there is no substitute for hard work and commitment. Focusing on talent development that aligns with career goals is important and so is picking a few mentors for the future. She advises women to not get too comfortable in any role, which encourages shift away from the 'learning mode'.

Hobbies: Soft rock is something that helps Koneru unwind. Pink Floyd is her favorite. Besides, she drowns in books whenever she gets time. The Alchemist and The Jungle Book are her favorites. Hiking and traveling are the other leisure time activities that Koneru is very fond of.

Future plans: Koneru hopes to lead a life with perfect work-life integration, lead a company or a business, and engage in community giveback continuously.

N Vasudevan
vasudevann@cybermedia.co.in

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