Sudhish Mohsn

SUDHISH MOHSN

CIO UK and Europe at TransUnion

Can you please provide a little introduction about yourself

What path have you taken to your current position?

There is no single path and many learnings were gained along the way. I would say trust your instincts and be open to all types of opportunities and interactions.

You could meet many amazing people along that journey. My current role is a culmination of wanting to do transformation with a big data focus while working abroad. 

Has it always been your vision to reach the position you’re at? Was your current role part of your vision to become a tech leader?

Yes definitely. As a CIO, you have the opportunity to have a company-wide view as well as influence at a strategic level.

I was always interested in driving transformations but all building a team of people to support that.  Today I have that opportunity.

Have you had a role model or mentor that has helped you on your journey? (If you feel comfortable, please share their name and how they helped you)

I have had many. I will call out Mike Bowden, the ex-CIO of Anglo American, who has helped me tremendously.

How do you see the role of the technology leader evolving over the next 5 years?

Chief Collaborator or Influencer would be the role of the CIO. Ecosystems are growing and technology is moving at a rapid pace as usual. Connecting people with technology and services to create unique value is where the role is going in my view. 

What skills do you think leaders of the future will need in order to thrive?

Collaboration, Influencing, Story Telling, Working up and down as well across the organisation.

Is there anything in particular that you would still like to achieve in your career or what is the next step on your journey?

I would like to build another Digital Bank or Fintech. Alternatively, become the CEO of a tech business.

What advice would you give to aspiring technology leaders who are just starting their careers?

Try out many opportunities and continue to find ways to diversify your thoughts.

"Try out many opportunities and continue to find ways to diversify your thoughts."

What has been the biggest challenge you've faced in your career so far, and how did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge was myself and not believing in me. I now do:-)

What role do you see emerging technologies (e.g., AI, machine learning, blockchain) playing in your industry, and how are you preparing for them?

We are preparing( like everyone else), for AI and ML to be a core part of all we do in our business. 

How do you measure and communicate the value and impact of technology initiatives to other business leaders and stakeholders?

I try ( fail sometimes), to show the link between Tech spend & Total Shareholder return. A business metric is consumed more easily than an IT one.

What has been your most significant achievement or proudest moment as a technology leader?

Building a Digital Bank in South Africa ( Old Mutual Bank).

How do you ensure that you and your team stay updated with the latest technology trends and industry best practices?

Attend networking events mostly and read.

A big thank you to Sudhish Mohsn from TransUnion for sharing his journey to date.

If you would like to gain more perspective from Tech Leaders and CIOs you can read some of our other interviews here.