CEO Insights Magazine

Tasked with overseeing the company's operations, an Executive Director’s role is to ensure that business objectives align with longterm growth strategies. They are responsible for managing teams, driving innovation, and fostering collaboration across various departments. Additionally, they serve as a liaison between the company’s Board, Executive Council and management; ensuring that decisions are implemented effectively. Debanjan Dutta, Executive Director at Lenovo holds these qualities with a distinguished career spanning several decades in technology and business development.

Beginning as a university topper in engineering in the mid-90s, Debanjan quickly transitioned into the dynamic world of technology sales with General Electric. Over the next decade, he honed his expertise, particularly as IT started gaining prominence. His journey took him through top-tier Global IPPs like Wipro and Infosys, where he immersed himself in technology consulting and business development.

In 2010, Debanjan joined Accenture, taking on various roles across consulting, technology, and outsourcing. His leadership extended globally, managing teams and driving business outcomes across multiple segments. Before his current role at Lenovo, he led NEC’s Global Development Center, focusing on technology incubation and development of NEC’s flagship solutions and services worldwide. His diverse experience has positioned him as a forward-thinking leader who continues to shape Lenovo's trajectory in the global technology ecosystem. Let’s hear more from him.

You have over twenty-eight years of experience. Can you describe your journey to success, and what is your key to achieving it?

Success is subjective, but the one thing that I can state with absolute conviction throughout my career is my passion to continuously push the perimeter of my learning beyond what is

expected in my role. If you examine the roles I under took, particularly over the past 18 years, you’ll notice that many were trailblazing positions, whether it involved entering a new market or launching a new business line for the organizations I worked with.

These roles required an entrepreneurial mindset, a willingness to take calculated risks, and the ability to succeed or fail quickly. Throughout my career, I’ve explored diverse functions, from Sales and Business Development to Portfolio Management, Goto-Market strategies, Delivery and Operations. I believe this broad experience has not only strengthened my resilience but also sharpened my focus on identifying business oppor-tunities and nurturing them into sustainable success.

Can you describe your approach to leadership? What principles or methodo-logies guide you as a leader?

My leadership approach is grounded in three core principles: trust, account ability, and collaboration. In today’s environment, I believe a leader should act more as a guide than a coach, assisting the team in generating ideas, refining them, and achieving results. It's also crucial for a leader to maintain credibility by consistently aligning actions with words while demonstrating empathy and fairness.

How do you stay informed about industry trends to guide your organization forward?

In an era of information overload, staying up-to-date with industry trends requires discernment. I prioritize identifying and analyzing key trends that have the potential to impact my organization, allowing me to stay focused on what truly matters. By dedicating time to regularly read, study, and assess relevant developments, I can proactively address emerging opportunities or challenges. This approach helps me decide when it's worth testing and adopting new initiatives, or when to take measures to mitigate risks. Balancing the influx of information with strategic thinking ensures that my organi

zation is not only responsive to industry changes but also prepared to navigate the future effectively.

What future destination are you aiming for?

I am focused on pursuing roles that will allow me to contribute strategically to an organization’s longterm growth and profitability. Moving forward, I seek opportunities that challenge me to leverage my experience in driving business transformation, innovation, and operational efficiency. My goal is to play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of an organization by identifying new market opportunities, optimizing processes, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. I am particularly interested in positions where I can collaborate with diverse teams, lead through influence, and implement strategies that drive sustainable success. In any enterprise that I am a part of, I would like my leadership and expertise to be able to make a tangible impact on business outcomes, helping navigate through challenges while capitalizing on emerging trends.

With your extensive experience in the industry, what advice would you offer to aspiring leaders?

First, never stop learning. The business and socioeconomic environment is constantly evolving, and staying informed is key to remaining relevant and competitive. Second, be adaptable - change is inevitable, and your ability to adjust without losing sight of your core values will determine your long term success. Finally, remember that your success as a leader is tied directly to the success of your team. Invest in your people, support their growth, and always have their back. A strong team will be your greatest asset in achieving collective goals and over coming challenges.

Debanjan Dutta, Executive Director, Lenovo

Debanjan Dutta, Executive Director at Lenovo, brings over two decades of experience in technology sales, business development, and leadership. With a career spanning top organizations like General Electric, Wipro, Infosys, and Accenture, he has held key roles in consulting, technology, and outsourcing. Prior to Lenovo, Debanjan led NEC’s Global Development Center, focusing on technology incubation and the development of flagship solutions. His diverse expertise continues to drive Lenovo’s strategic growth in the global tech landscape.