SumiVivek’s journey, the Senior Vice President–Information Technology at Curriculum Associates, reflects the evolution of technology, innovation, and AI adoption.
The tech sector has undergone some of the most dramatic changes over the past three decades, from the rise of the internet and cloud computing to today’s AI revolution. A few professionals were able to witness these shifts as closely as SumiVivek, whose nearly 28-year career offers a window into how technology leadership has evolved alongside the industry’s rapid transformation.
Having worked across engineering, product development, and leadership roles, Vivek’s professional journey mirrors the broader story of how technology organisations have adapted to changing market demands, emerging digital tools, and evolving workforce expectations. Her experience highlights an increasingly important reality in today’s business environment: technical expertise alone is no longer enough. Adaptability, continuous learning, and people leadership have become equally critical.
The growing importance of women in tech leadership.
As the technology sector continues to expand, the presence of women in leadership positions remains a key area of focus. Industry discussions increasingly emphasise the need for stronger leadership pathways, mentorship opportunities, and inclusive workplace cultures to ensure that more women advance into senior decision-making roles. Vivek’s progression through multiple leadership positions reflects a broader trend in which organisations are recognising the value of diverse leadership teams. Experts argue that businesses that encourage varied perspectives are often better positioned to innovate, navigate disruption, and build resilient teams in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Perhaps the most significant shift facing technology leaders today is the rise of artificial intelligence. Unlike previous waves of innovation, AI is influencing nearly every aspect of business operations, from software development and customer engagement to decision-making and workforce productivity. Industry leaders increasingly view AI not as a replacement for human talent but as a tool that augments human capabilities. This perspective is shaping how organisations approach workforce development, talent management, and digital transformation strategies. For experienced leaders, the challenge lies in balancing technological adoption with responsible implementation. Success depends not only on deploying AI tools but also on fostering a culture that encourages experimentation, continuous learning, and ethical decision-making.
Lessons from a long-term career in tech.
One of the defining themes of long-term success in technology is the ability to evolve alongside the industry. Over the years, technology professionals have had to repeatedly reinvent their skills as new platforms, methodologies, and business models emerged. Today’s workplace increasingly rewards learning agility over static expertise. Organisations are placing greater emphasis on professionals who can combine technical knowledge with strategic thinking, collaboration, and leadership capabilities. This shift is becoming particularly important as AI, automation, and data-driven technologies reshape the future of work.
As artificial intelligence accelerates technological change, the role of leaders will continue to evolve. The careers of experienced professionals such as SumiVivek illustrate how adaptability, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning remain essential in navigating industry disruption. While technologies may change, the core principles of effective leadership, building strong teams, embracing innovation, and staying responsive to change remain as relevant today as they were nearly three decades ago. In an era increasingly defined by AI, those qualities may become more valuable than ever.