Bengaluru’s Top 20 Most Followed Chief Information Officer(CIOs) on LinkedIn

As cybersecurity takes center stage in the digital era, Bengaluru’s leading CIOs are at the forefront of innovation and resilience. These tech visionaries are not only safeguarding their organizations but also shaping the industry’s future through strategic insights and thought leadership.

Join us as we spotlight Bengaluru’s Top 20 Most-Followed CIOs—visionaries who are not only securing their organizations but also driving the future of cybersecurity through their thought leadership and insights on LinkedIn.

1. Pavithran Ayyala—Head Digital IT Services Business & CIO, Utthunga

20,710 Followers on LinkedIn

With over 20 years of experience in IT and OT, this seasoned professional leads digital, IT, and cybersecurity strategies at a global product engineering and industrial solutions firm. Specializing in bridging Operational Technology (OT) and Manufacturing IT, they drive digital transformation, innovation, and operational efficiency. Their expertise spans Industry 4.0, AI, cybersecurity, ERP, MES, and risk management, ensuring compliance with global standards like GDPR, IEC 62443, and ISO 27001. With a proven track record of managing multi-million-dollar ERP implementations and global IT operations, they focus on optimizing supply chains, enhancing infrastructure, and mentoring future digital leaders.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayyalapavi/

2. Nilesh Sangoi – CIO, Fincare Small Finance Bank

14,290 Followers on LinkedIn

He is a seasoned technology and business leader with extensive experience in banking, mobility, and media, driving digital transformation and innovation. As the Chief Information Officer at a leading small finance bank, he focuses on leveraging technology to enhance financial services. Previously, he served as CEO and CTO in the mobility sector, leading technology-driven business expansion and operational efficiency. With a strong background in IT strategy, digital platforms, and large-scale enterprise solutions, he has also contributed to the media industry, bringing a well-rounded approach to technology leadership.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nilesh-sangoi-8499874/

3. K N Phani Raj – CIO, CriticaLog India Pvt Ltd.

13,891 Followers on LinkedIn

He is a results-driven Chief Information Officer with over 30 years of experience in IT strategy, digital transformation, and technology innovation. With a strong ability to align technology initiatives with business goals, he excels in optimizing operational efficiency and enhancing customer experiences. His expertise spans IT governance, budget management, and cross-functional collaboration to drive measurable business outcomes. Skilled in IT project management, software development lifecycle, IT infrastructure design, cloud and datacenter technology, and enterprise solutions like SAP, WMS, and TMS, he brings a strategic approach to technology leadership, vendor management, and contract negotiations.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajpkn/

4. Reema Jain – CIDO, Hero MotoCorp

13,271 Followers on LinkedIn

With a proven track record in maximizing product profitability, she excels in developing innovative digital products, leading global transformation programs, and aligning business objectives with GCC operations. A recognized industry speaker and panelist, she has been honored as a Top Tech Women Leader by Forbes India and an IDG Top 100 Global CIO. Passionate about sustainability and diversity, she has championed initiatives for carbon neutrality and led efforts to attract and develop diverse talent, strengthening corporate culture and brand reputation.

Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemajain/

5. Hriday Ravindranath – CDIO, Orange Business

11,940 Followers on Linkedin

He is a technology leader passionate about driving change and market disruption. Leading the Technology unit, he is responsible for building an industry-leading portfolio that integrates cutting-edge innovation from Orange and its partners, designed with environmentally conscious principles to support customers’ digital needs. Recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2021, he is part of a dynamic community of exceptional individuals shaping global progress. Holding an MSc in Artificial Intelligence from the University of Edinburgh and an MSc in Major Programs from Oxford University, he brings a strong academic foundation to his mission of leveraging technology for meaningful impact.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hriday-ravindranath-ab10272/

6. Ramesh K. Meda – Global CIO, Red Apple Inc

10,768 Followers on Linkedin

With over 35 years of IT industry experience and a strong global footprint, he has successfully driven results across multiple verticals, specializing in product development, bespoke solutions, and Data Warehousing, Business Intelligence, and Analytics for over 15 years. His expertise spans BPO/KPO/ITeS, Data-as-a-Service, and serial startup ventures, making him a seasoned incubation specialist and an active NGO contributor. He offers management advisory services, product lifecycle management, offshore engagements, BOT (Build, Operate & Transfer) models, and short-term executive roles such as CEO, CIO, CDO, or CTO to deliver results-driven engagements.

LinkedIn Profile – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rameshmeda/

7. Debashis Singh – CIO, Persistent Systems

10,488  Followers on Linkedin

A results-driven IT leader with over 20 years of experience in IT and ITES, excelling in both startups and large global corporations. Known for envisioning and driving technology-led growth initiatives, he has a proven track record of building high-performing teams and aligning technology with cross-functional business objectives. His expertise spans technology lifecycle management, systems architecture, product and solutions development, and cost and risk management. With strong interpersonal and technical skills, he excels in strategic IT direction, solution design, and project management, ensuring seamless communication with customers, peers, and leadership to drive impactful business outcomes.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debashissingh/

8. Nandkishor Dhomne – CIO, Manipal Health Enterprises

9,982  Followers on Linkedin

He is an IT leader with extensive experience in Manufacturing, Healthcare, Infrastructure, and Multimodal Logistics. He specializes in IT strategic and operational planning, core business applications management, IT infrastructure and security, ITIL, data center operations, and BCP/DR. With expertise in technology evaluations, project management, budgeting, IT governance, and vendor negotiations, he has successfully designed IT frameworks from scratch and developed IT roadmaps for both short- and long-term strategies. He has structured IT organizations for PAN-India operations, led large-scale project execution, and implemented consolidation and MIS/Executive dashboards.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ndhomne/

9. Shashwat Singh – CIO, boAt

9,200 Followers on Linkedin

A dynamic IT leader with 15 years of experience driving digital transformation across industries, from FMCG to consumer electronics and digital-native environments. Adept at formulating and executing both short- and long-term technology strategies in complex, agile business landscapes. Recognized for excellence in leadership and business transformation, with multiple industry awards and accolades. Actively contributes as a jury member and speaker at various external forums, bringing deep expertise in supply chain, logistics, and technology-driven innovation.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shashwatsinh/

10. Jai Thomas – CIO, VerSe Innovation

9,014 Followers on Linkedin

An IT leader with extensive experience driving digital transformation and operational excellence across multiple industries. With over 15 years as a Chief Information Officer, expertise spans leadership, lean management, service delivery, and systems integration. Proven track record in building high-performing teams, ensuring seamless customer delivery, and developing robust operational processes. Experience includes key roles in project management, mediation systems, and large-scale technology deployments in telecom, media, and enterprise solutions. Adept at managing complex integrations, driving innovation, and delivering strategic business outcomes in dynamic environments.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasjai/

11. Harish Gudi – CIO, Optum

8,813 Followers on Linkedin

He is an accomplished technology and business leader with a proven track record across global organizations such as Optum (UnitedHealth Group), Tredence Inc, Infosys, and Mu Sigma. As CIO of Optum India, he led enterprise-wide digital transformation, while also serving as the Global Leader for Enterprise Data Analytics (EDA) and Automation & Process Re-Engineering (ART). At Tredence Inc, he played a pivotal role as Chief Operating Officer and EVP, overseeing global analytics, AI delivery, and operations. His leadership at Infosys spanned two tenures, where he was a Partner in Infosys Consulting, heading global BI services for Retail, CPG, Logistics, and Lifesciences, and previously scaling service delivery for CPG customers globally.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harishgudi/

12. Amit Sharma – CIO & Head Partnerships and CSR, Cytecare Hospitals

8,587 Followers on Linkedin

An IT and business leader with extensive global experience in enterprise data analytics, automation, AI, and digital transformation, currently engaged in advancing world-class cancer care in India. With a track record of driving large-scale service operations, optimizing business efficiencies, and leading multi-regional teams, expertise spans CIO responsibilities, strategic consulting, and digital innovation across healthcare, retail, CPG, telecom, and financial services. Passionate about bridging the gap in cancer care by integrating global best practices, evidence-based protocols, and patient-centric approaches to improve clinical outcomes.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amit-sharma-31ab553/

13. Venkat Krishnan V – CIO, Karnataka Bank

8,492 Followers on Linkedin

He is an accomplished IT leader with 25 years of experience, specializing in Banking, Finance, and Insurance. He has hands-on expertise in setting up technology infrastructure for banks and insurance institutions from the ground up, managing complex migrations and large-scale transformation projects. His strategic vision includes executing business-technology initiatives, building enterprise digital platforms, and implementing core banking and infrastructure projects with zero downtime. He has successfully led banking application frameworks, financial GL and MIS frameworks, and regulatory data systems, enhancing customer experiences through innovative digital solutions.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/venkat-krishnan-v-b382738/?originalSubdomain=in

14. Sachin Gupta – CIO, Amagi Corporation

8,242 Followers on Linkedin

With over two decades of experience spanning IT, insurance, healthcare, FMCG, e-commerce, and retail, a strong track record of delivering complex projects and products to Fortune 500 clients globally. Expertise includes IT strategy, enterprise software implementation, cloud technology, digital transformation, and managing CxO relationships, with a focus on customer satisfaction and vendor partnerships. A graduate of IIT-Delhi, complemented by an MBA from IIM-Ahmedabad, bringing a blend of technical acumen and business leadership to drive innovation and execution.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sachingupta75/

15. Dr. Avnish Kshatriya – CDIO, Trilegal

7,973 Followers on Linkedin

A global IT leader with 28+ years of experience, has worked with 30+ Fortune 500 clients across industries like Oil & Gas, Retail, BFSI, and Healthcare, driving digital transformation and enterprise-wide solutions. Currently the Global IT Head (Business CIO) for iDEAS at Wipro Ltd., he specializes in IT transformation, data & analytics, cloud solutions, and strategic program management. An alumnus of DTU, IIM-B, and IISc, he has a proven track record of incubating and scaling digital capabilities into business-driven practices. Recognized for his outcome-driven yet inclusive leadership, he is also a mentor, guest speaker, and advisory board member for academic institutions.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avnishkshatriya/?originalSubdomain=in

16. Manuj Desai – CTIO, Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

7,948 Followers on Linkedin

A seasoned executive leader with over 20 years of experience in general management, corporate development, product development, business operations, and strategy. Currently serving as Global CIO, driving digital transformation across multiple business units through architecture, product development, analytics, automation, and Industry 4.0. Previously led Personal Insurance at AIG India, focusing on InsureTech automation, predictive modeling, and decision tools, and also headed Data Integration and BI. Managed PayPal India’s global operations after 12 years in the U.S., where he contributed to IT solutions at USDA and Sprint-Nextel.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manujdesai/

17. Rejin Surendran – Global CIO, Wipro Enterprises

7,853 Followers on Linkedin

He is a global IT leader currently serving as the Global CIO for Wipro Enterprises Ltd. Previously, as Head of Digital for Coca-Cola’s Bottling Investments Group, he spearheaded the company’s digital transformation across commercial, supply chain, people, and finance functions. With over 13 years at Unilever, he progressed from IT Manager for Warehousing to IT Director for Make & Deliver within the Enterprise & Technology Solutions Centre in Bangalore. His expertise spans large-scale global transformation projects, designing, delivering, and managing technologies like Oracle Transportation Management, JDA Warehouse Management, SAP Extended Warehouse Management, and Salesforce.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rejins/

18. George Fanthome – CIO, Bangalore International Airport Ltd.

7,742 Followers on Linkedin

An IT & Digital leader with a strong background in strategy, transformation, and execution within large organizations. Proven expertise in driving multi-million-dollar revenue and profit growth while leading businesses into new strategic domains. A humble, decisive, and innovative leader who builds and maintains key relationships with executives, strategic partners, and teams. Core competencies include strategic planning, innovation, digital transformation, enterprise-wide IT initiatives, multi-business and multi-country leadership, software development, M&A, vendor management, and financial planning.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-fanthome-866714/?originalSubdomain=in

19. Dr. Prince Joseph – Group CIO, SFO Technologies

7,298 Followers on Linkedin

An award-winning Business Technology Leader driving enterprise-wide digital transformation by leveraging emerging technologies and innovations while establishing a strong enterprise, information, and cybersecurity posture. With deep expertise in enterprise IT, spanning infrastructure, software engineering, digital transformation, ERP (SAP/D365), Industry 4.0, AI/ML, RPA, cloud, and data analytics, I have successfully led strategic projects across industries such as hospitality, aviation, logistics, manufacturing, and IT services. Passionate about building high-performance teams and fostering strong partner ecosystems, I bring a proven track record in business solutions, IT operations, and program management, supported by certifications in PMI/PMP, Scrum-Agile, ITIL, and DevOps. Recognized with 20+ awards for leadership, innovation, and value creation.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/princejo/

20. Jay Doshi – MD & CIO, BT Group

7,126 Followers on Linkedin

A seasoned digital and IT leader, currently serving as MD Digital India and MD & CIO at BT Group, driving enterprise-wide digital transformation and innovation. With over five years at BT, previously held key leadership roles, including CIO for BT Corporate Units and Director of Openreach IT, heading BT Technology operations across India and Malaysia. Passionate about leveraging emerging technologies, enterprise IT strategy, and cybersecurity to enhance business value and operational efficiency.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaydoshi/

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is based on research conducted by CXO Junction using keywords such as “Most followed CIOs in Bengaluru” The primary source of this research is LinkedIn. The information provided is intended for informational purposes only and reflects the data available at the time of the research. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy. Source: LinkedIn