C. Vijayakumar: Difference between revisions

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| employer    = [[HCLTech]]
| employer    = [[HCLTech]]
| title        = CEO and Managing Director
| title        = CEO and Managing Director
| education    = Bachelor of Engineering
}}
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'''C. Vijayakumar''' (commonly referred to as '''CVK''') is an Indian business executive serving as the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of [[HCLTech]] (formerly HCL Technologies), a multinational information technology services and consulting company headquartered in [[Noida]], India. First appointed as CEO in October 2016, Vijayakumar has led the company through a period of sustained growth and strategic transformation, including significant expansions into cloud computing, digital services, and artificial intelligence.<ref name="bwire">{{cite web |title=HCL Technologies Appoints C Vijayakumar as Chief Executive Officer |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20161024005870/en/HCL-Technologies-Appoints-C-Vijayakumar-as-Chief-Executive-Officer |publisher=Business Wire |date=2016-10-24 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> He assumed the additional role of Managing Director in July 2021 and was re-appointed for a third term as CEO and Managing Director in July 2025, with his tenure extended through March 31, 2030.<ref name="storyboard">{{cite news |date=2025-07-26 |title=HCLTech re-appoints C Vijayakumar as CEO & MD |url=https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/hcltech-re-appoints-c-vijayakumar-as-ceo-md-77076.htm |work=Storyboard18 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> As one of Indian IT's longest-serving CEOs, Vijayakumar has been instrumental in positioning HCLTech as one of the leading global technology companies.<ref name="mint-third-term">{{cite news |date=2025-07-25 |title=C Vijayakumar, one of Indian IT's longest-serving CEOs, gets a third term at HCLTech |url=https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/hcltech-ceo-extension-c-vijayakumar-hcl-technologies-indian-it-longest-serving-ceos-hcltech-leadership-hcltech-11753415918636.html |work=Mint |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> A career-long HCLTech executive, he rose through the ranks of the organization over more than two decades before being elevated to the top leadership position.
'''C. Vijayakumar''' (commonly referred to as '''CVK''') is an Indian business executive who serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of [[HCLTech]], a multinational information technology services and consulting company headquartered in [[Noida]], India. Appointed CEO in October 2016, Vijayakumar has led HCLTech through a period of significant transformation, overseeing a strategic expansion of the company's service portfolio and guiding it into new growth areas including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital engineering.<ref name="businesswire">{{cite web |title=HCL Technologies Appoints C Vijayakumar as Chief Executive Officer |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20161024005870/en/HCL-Technologies-Appoints-C-Vijayakumar-as-Chief-Executive-Officer |publisher=Business Wire |date=2016-10-24 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> He additionally assumed the role of Managing Director in July 2021, consolidating his leadership position at the firm.<ref name="hclprofile">{{cite web |title=C Vijayakumar – Leadership |url=https://www.hcltech.com/about-us/leadership/c-vijayakumar |publisher=HCLTech |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> As one of Indian IT's longest-serving CEOs, Vijayakumar was re-appointed for a third term in July 2025, with his tenure extended from September 1, 2025, to March 31, 2030.<ref name="mint-thirdterm">{{cite news |date=2025-07-25 |title=C Vijayakumar, one of Indian IT's longest-serving CEOs, gets a third term at HCLTech |url=https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/hcltech-ceo-extension-c-vijayakumar-hcl-technologies-indian-it-longest-serving-ceos-hcltech-leadership-hcltech-11753415918636.html |work=Mint |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> His compensation in FY25 reached $10.85 million, making him the highest-paid CEO among India's top IT services companies.<ref name="et-compensation">{{cite news |date=2025-08-03 |title=HCLTech CEO C Vijayakumar out-earns TCS, Infosys heads in FY25 with $10.85 million paycheck |url=https://m.economictimes.com/tech/information-tech/hcltech-ceo-c-vijayakumar-earns-10-85-million-in-fy25-more-than-tcs-infosys-heads/articleshow/123072277.cms |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


== Early Life ==
== Early Life ==


C. Vijayakumar was born in [[Tamil Nadu]], India.<ref name="bloomberg">{{cite web |title=C Vijayakumar Profile |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/profile/person/18657144 |publisher=Bloomberg |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> He attended the [[Lawrence School, Lovedale]], a residential school located in the [[Nilgiris district]] of Tamil Nadu, known for its rigorous academic and extracurricular programs.<ref name="hclprofile">{{cite web |title=C Vijayakumar – Leadership |url=https://www.hcltech.com/about-us/leadership/c-vijayakumar |publisher=HCLTech |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Details about his family background and early childhood have not been extensively documented in public sources.
C. Vijayakumar was born in [[Tamil Nadu]], India.<ref name="hclprofile" /> He received his early education at the [[Lawrence School, Lovedale]], a boarding school located in the [[Nilgiris district]] of Tamil Nadu.<ref name="hclprofile" /> Details about his family background and early childhood have not been extensively documented in public sources.


== Education ==
== Education ==


Vijayakumar completed his schooling at [[Lawrence School, Lovedale]] in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu. He subsequently pursued higher education at [[PSG College of Technology]] in [[Coimbatore]], Tamil Nadu, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree.<ref name="hclprofile" /><ref name="bloomberg" /> PSG College of Technology is one of the prominent engineering institutions in southern India and has produced several notable figures in the Indian technology sector.
Vijayakumar completed his secondary education at the Lawrence School, Lovedale, one of India's established boarding schools situated in the Nilgiri Hills.<ref name="hclprofile" /> He subsequently pursued higher education at the [[PSG College of Technology]] in [[Coimbatore]], Tamil Nadu, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree.<ref name="hclprofile" /> PSG College of Technology is one of southern India's prominent engineering institutions, affiliated with [[Anna University]].


== Career ==
== Career ==
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=== Early Career at HCL Technologies ===
=== Early Career at HCL Technologies ===


Vijayakumar joined HCL Technologies early in his professional career and spent more than two decades at the company before being elevated to the position of Chief Executive Officer. Over the course of his tenure, he held a series of progressively senior leadership roles within the organization, gaining extensive experience across multiple business verticals and service lines.<ref name="procurement">{{cite web |title=Vijayakumar C |url=https://procurementmag.com/executive/vijayakumar-c |publisher=Procurement Magazine |date=2025-12-17 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Vijayakumar joined HCL Technologies early in his career and rose through various leadership positions within the organization over more than two decades before being named CEO. His career trajectory at HCL encompassed roles across multiple business verticals and service lines, giving him broad operational experience across the company's diverse portfolio of technology services.<ref name="hclprofile" /><ref name="procurement">{{cite web |title=Vijayakumar C |url=https://procurementmag.com/executive/vijayakumar-c |publisher=Procurement Magazine |date=2025-12-17 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


Prior to his appointment as CEO, Vijayakumar served as President of the company and held responsibilities for several of HCL Technologies' key business units. He was appointed as the company's Chief Operating Officer (COO) in 2016, a role that further expanded his oversight of the firm's global operations.<ref name="hindu-coo">{{cite news |title=HCL Tech appoints COO |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/hcl-tech-appoints-coo/article8860146.ece |work=The Hindu BusinessLine |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> His deep familiarity with HCLTech's service portfolio, client relationships, and operational infrastructure positioned him as a natural successor for the top executive role.
Prior to his appointment as CEO, Vijayakumar served as the President of the company's largest business unit, overseeing a portfolio of IT services that constituted a significant portion of HCL Technologies' overall revenue. In this capacity, he was responsible for managing client relationships, driving business growth, and executing delivery across key markets.<ref name="hclprofile" />


=== Appointment as CEO (2016) ===
In August 2016, HCL Technologies appointed Vijayakumar as Chief Operating Officer (COO), a role that positioned him as the operational head of the company and signaled his trajectory toward the top leadership position.<ref name="hindubusiness">{{cite news |title=HCL Tech appoints COO |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/hcl-tech-appoints-coo/article8860146.ece |work=The Hindu Business Line |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> His appointment as COO was viewed as a step in the company's leadership succession planning, as HCL Technologies prepared for its next phase of growth under new executive leadership.


On October 24, 2016, HCL Technologies announced the appointment of C. Vijayakumar as Chief Executive Officer of the company. The announcement was made via a global press release distributed by Business Wire, in which the company outlined its confidence in Vijayakumar's ability to lead the organization through its next phase of growth.<ref name="bwire" /> The appointment came at a time when the Indian IT services industry was undergoing significant structural changes, with growing demand for digital transformation services, cloud computing, and automation.
=== Appointment as CEO ===


As CEO, Vijayakumar assumed responsibility for the overall strategic direction, operations, and business performance of HCLTech. His appointment reflected the company's preference for leadership continuity and internal talent development, as Vijayakumar had spent a substantial portion of his career within the HCL ecosystem.<ref name="procurement" />
On October 24, 2016, HCL Technologies formally announced the appointment of C. Vijayakumar as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.<ref name="businesswire" /> The appointment was announced via a Business Wire release, and the transition marked a new chapter for the company, which was then seeking to accelerate growth and expand its portfolio beyond traditional IT services.


=== Strategic Leadership and Transformation ===
In the announcement, HCL Technologies positioned Vijayakumar's elevation as a reflection of his deep understanding of the company's business operations, client relationships, and strategic direction. His appointment came at a time when the Indian IT services industry was undergoing a significant transformation, with companies pivoting from legacy services toward digital, cloud, and automation-driven offerings.<ref name="businesswire" />


Under Vijayakumar's leadership, HCLTech underwent a significant transformation in its business model and strategic focus. The company expanded its capabilities in several key areas, including digital services, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and engineering and R&D services. One of the most notable strategic moves during his tenure was HCLTech's acquisition of select IBM software products in 2018, a deal valued at approximately $1.8 billion, which significantly bolstered the company's software products portfolio and diversified its revenue streams.<ref name="procurement" />
=== Transformation and Growth of HCLTech ===


The company also invested in building its capabilities in areas related to artificial intelligence and generative AI. Under Vijayakumar's stewardship, HCLTech became one of the few major Indian IT services companies to publicly disclose and report its generative AI-related revenue, a move that Vijayakumar described as providing stakeholders with a clear view of how the technology was being adopted and monetized.<ref name="mint-genai">{{cite news |date=2025-07 |title=CEO C. Vijayakumar spells out why HCLTech is one of the few IT majors putting a number on GenAI revenue |url=https://www.livemint.com/companies/hcltech-q3-earnings-ai-revenue-ceo-c-vijayakumar-it-services-11768295745534.html |work=Mint |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Under Vijayakumar's leadership, HCL Technologies underwent a substantial transformation in its business strategy and market positioning. One of the defining moves during his tenure was the acquisition of select IBM software products in December 2018, a transaction valued at $1.8 billion. This acquisition brought products such as [[IBM Notes|Domino]], [[IBM BigFix|BigFix]], [[IBM Unica|Unica]], [[IBM AppScan|AppScan]], and several other enterprise software brands under HCL's ownership, marking a strategic diversification from pure-play IT services into software products.<ref name="procurement" />


In interviews published in 2025, Vijayakumar outlined HCLTech's strategy of focusing on new growth areas rather than relying solely on macroeconomic improvements. He identified AI-led software development, hardware-related services, and next-generation digital infrastructure as key pillars of the company's future growth.<ref name="et-interview">{{cite news |date=2025 |title=HCLTech is counting on new growth areas like AI-led software, hardware: CEO C Vijayakumar |url=https://m.economictimes.com/tech/information-tech/et-interview-hcltech-is-counting-on-new-growth-areas-instead-of-macro-improvements-ceo-c-vijayakumar/articleshow/126512035.cms |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> This approach positioned HCLTech to capitalize on the broader industry shift toward AI-integrated enterprise solutions.
The company also rebranded from "HCL Technologies" to "HCLTech" during Vijayakumar's tenure, signaling a modernized identity and a broader ambition beyond traditional IT services. Under his stewardship, HCLTech expanded its capabilities across several domains including digital engineering, cloud and infrastructure services, cybersecurity, and AI-driven solutions.<ref name="procurement" /><ref name="hcl-about">{{cite web |title=About HCL Technologies |url=https://www.hcltech.com/about-us/about-hcl-technologies |publisher=HCLTech |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


Vijayakumar has been a public advocate for the strategic adoption of artificial intelligence in enterprise settings. In February 2025, he participated in the AI Leadership Mixer, an industry event where he discussed the practical challenges and opportunities of AI implementation alongside other technology leaders, including the CEO of Zscaler and the VP of Generative AI at Autodesk.<ref name="linkedin-ai">{{cite web |title=AI Leadership Mixer – C Vijayakumar at CNBC-TV18 event |url=https://www.linkedin.com/posts/cnbc-tv18_aileadershipmixer-futureenterprise-cnbctv18-activity-7430500648409776129-PIU- |publisher=LinkedIn (CNBC-TV18) |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Vijayakumar's strategic focus has included building HCLTech's capabilities in [[artificial intelligence]] and [[generative AI]]. As the AI revolution accelerated across the technology industry, he positioned HCLTech as one of the few major Indian IT services companies to publicly disclose its generative AI revenue, providing transparency to stakeholders about the company's progress in this emerging area.<ref name="mint-genai">{{cite news |date=2025-06-01 |title=CEO C. Vijayakumar spells out why HCLTech is one of the few IT majors putting a number on GenAI revenue |url=https://www.livemint.com/companies/hcltech-q3-earnings-ai-revenue-ceo-c-vijayakumar-it-services-11768295745534.html |work=Mint |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


=== Appointment as Managing Director (2021) ===
In an interview with ''The Economic Times'' in 2025, Vijayakumar articulated HCLTech's strategy of focusing on new growth areas rather than relying on macroeconomic improvements. He identified AI-led software, hardware services, and digital engineering as key growth drivers for the company as the broader $283-billion IT services industry navigated changes in delivery mechanisms and revenue streams.<ref name="et-interview">{{cite news |date=2025-06-01 |title=HCLTech is counting on new growth areas like AI-led software, hardware: CEO C Vijayakumar |url=https://m.economictimes.com/tech/information-tech/et-interview-hcltech-is-counting-on-new-growth-areas-instead-of-macro-improvements-ceo-c-vijayakumar/articleshow/126512035.cms |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


In July 2021, Vijayakumar's role at HCLTech was expanded to include the title of Managing Director, in addition to his existing position as CEO. This dual designation consolidated his leadership authority and reflected the board's confidence in his stewardship of the company during a period that included the global disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.<ref name="storyboard" /><ref name="mint-third-term" />
=== Managing Director Role and Expanded Responsibilities ===


The combined CEO and Managing Director role gave Vijayakumar broader executive authority over both strategic and operational matters, aligning HCLTech's governance structure with common practices among major Indian IT companies.
In July 2021, Vijayakumar's role was expanded when he was additionally appointed as Managing Director of HCL Technologies, combining the CEO and MD titles.<ref name="hclprofile" /> This consolidation of titles reflected the board's confidence in his leadership and provided him with enhanced authority to drive the company's strategic agenda.


=== Re-appointment for Third Term (2025) ===
The combined CEO and MD role gave Vijayakumar direct oversight of all aspects of HCLTech's operations, including its global delivery network, client engagement strategy, research and development initiatives, and corporate functions. Under this expanded mandate, he continued to steer the company through the evolving technology landscape, including the post-pandemic digital acceleration that saw increased demand for cloud migration, cybersecurity, and remote work solutions.


On July 25, 2025, it was reported that HCLTech's board of directors had approved the re-appointment of C. Vijayakumar as CEO and Managing Director for a third consecutive term, effective September 1, 2025, through March 31, 2030. The re-appointment was subject to shareholder approval.<ref name="storyboard" /> The decision made Vijayakumar one of the longest-serving CEOs in the Indian IT industry, a distinction noted by multiple business publications.<ref name="mint-third-term" />
=== Re-appointment for Third Term ===


The extension of his tenure came at a time when HCLTech was navigating a complex business environment shaped by rapid advances in artificial intelligence, shifts in global IT spending patterns, and evolving client demands for integrated technology solutions. The board's decision to extend his mandate through 2030 signaled an intention to maintain strategic continuity during this period of industry-wide transformation.
In July 2025, HCLTech's board of directors approved the re-appointment of Vijayakumar as CEO and Managing Director for a third term, extending his tenure from September 1, 2025, to March 31, 2030. The re-appointment was subject to shareholder approval.<ref name="mint-thirdterm" /><ref name="storyboard">{{cite news |date=2025-07-26 |title=HCLTech re-appoints C Vijayakumar as CEO & MD |url=https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/hcltech-re-appoints-c-vijayakumar-as-ceo-md-77076.htm |work=Storyboard18 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


=== Compensation ===
The extension made Vijayakumar one of the longest-serving CEOs in the Indian IT industry, a sector where executive tenures have historically varied significantly among the major companies. ''Mint'' noted that his continuity at the helm was notable in an industry that had seen frequent leadership changes at several peer companies during the same period.<ref name="mint-thirdterm" />


Vijayakumar's compensation has been a subject of industry attention, particularly in comparison with the pay packages of other leading Indian IT company CEOs. For the financial year 2024–25 (FY25), his total compensation was reported at $10.85 million, which exceeded the remuneration of the heads of other major Indian IT firms including [[Tata Consultancy Services]] (TCS), [[Infosys]], [[Wipro]], and [[Tech Mahindra]].<ref name="et-salary">{{cite news |date=2025-08-03 |title=HCLTech CEO C Vijayakumar out-earns TCS, Infosys heads in FY25 with $10.85 million paycheck |url=https://m.economictimes.com/tech/information-tech/hcltech-ceo-c-vijayakumar-earns-10-85-million-in-fy25-more-than-tcs-infosys-heads/articleshow/123072277.cms |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Alongside the re-appointment, the board approved a significant increase in Vijayakumar's remuneration for FY26, representing a 71 percent hike over his previous compensation package. This positioned his pay well above that of CEOs at competing Indian IT services firms including [[Tata Consultancy Services|TCS]], [[Infosys]], [[Wipro]], and [[Tech Mahindra]].<ref name="msn-salary">{{cite news |date=2025-08-03 |title=HCLTech CEO C Vijayakumar's Salary: 71% hike in FY26! More than TCS, Infosys chiefs |url=https://www.msn.com/en-in/money/news/hcltech-ceo-c-vijayakumar-s-salary-71-hike-in-fy26-more-than-tcs-infosys-chiefs/ar-AA1JNUVw |work=MSN |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


In August 2025, it was further reported that HCLTech's board had approved a 71% hike in Vijayakumar's remuneration for FY26, further widening the gap between his compensation and that of his counterparts at other major Indian IT services companies.<ref name="msn-salary">{{cite news |date=2025-08-03 |title=HCLTech CEO C Vijayakumar's Salary: 71% hike in FY26! More than TCS, Infosys chiefs |url=https://www.msn.com/en-in/money/news/hcltech-ceo-c-vijayakumar-s-salary-71-hike-in-fy26-more-than-tcs-infosys-chiefs/ar-AA1JNUVw |work=MSN |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The compensation figures reflect both the scale of HCLTech's global operations and the board's assessment of Vijayakumar's leadership contributions.
=== AI Strategy and Industry Engagement ===


=== Industry Engagement ===
Vijayakumar has been an active participant in industry forums and discussions on the role of artificial intelligence in enterprise technology. In 2025, he appeared alongside Jay Chaudhry, CEO and Founder of [[Zscaler]], and Mike Haley, Vice President of Generative AI at [[Autodesk]], at the AI Leadership Mixer, where the executives discussed strategies for enterprise AI adoption.<ref name="linkedin-ai">{{cite web |title=AI Leadership Mixer – C Vijayakumar, Jay Chaudhry, Mike Haley |url=https://www.linkedin.com/posts/cnbc-tv18_aileadershipmixer-futureenterprise-cnbctv18-activity-7430500648409776129-PIU- |publisher=LinkedIn (CNBC-TV18) |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


Beyond his role at HCLTech, Vijayakumar has engaged with global industry forums and thought leadership platforms. He has been a contributor to the [[World Economic Forum]], where he has shared perspectives on technology, business leadership, and the future of the digital economy.<ref name="wef">{{cite web |title=C Vijayakumar – Author page |url=https://www.weforum.org/agenda/authors/c-vijayakumar |publisher=World Economic Forum |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
He has also contributed to discussions at the [[World Economic Forum]], where he has been listed as a contributor on the organization's agenda platform, addressing topics related to technology and business leadership.<ref name="wef">{{cite web |title=C Vijayakumar – Agenda Authors |url=https://www.weforum.org/agenda/authors/c-vijayakumar |publisher=World Economic Forum |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


His participation in industry events, panel discussions, and executive roundtables has contributed to shaping discourse on topics including enterprise AI adoption, the future of IT services delivery, and the role of technology in driving business innovation.
Under Vijayakumar's direction, HCLTech has positioned generative AI as a central element of its go-to-market strategy. In earnings discussions and media interviews, he has emphasized the company's approach to quantifying AI revenue and investing in AI-led software products and services, distinguishing HCLTech's disclosure practices from those of several industry peers.<ref name="mint-genai" /><ref name="et-interview" />
 
== Compensation ==
 
Vijayakumar's compensation has been a subject of industry attention, particularly in comparison with the remuneration of CEOs at other major Indian IT services companies. For the fiscal year ending March 2025 (FY25), his total compensation reached $10.85 million, making him the highest-paid CEO among India's leading IT companies, surpassing the heads of TCS, Infosys, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra.<ref name="et-compensation" />
 
For FY26, HCLTech's board approved a 71 percent increase in his remuneration, further widening the compensation gap between Vijayakumar and his counterparts at peer organizations.<ref name="msn-salary" /> The board's decision to increase his pay was linked to his re-appointment for a third term and reflected the company's performance and growth trajectory under his leadership.


== Recognition ==
== Recognition ==


C. Vijayakumar has received recognition for his leadership role in the Indian technology industry. In 2021, he was named among the winners of the ''Business Today'' "India's Best CEOs" awards at the BT MindRush 2021 event.<ref name="bt-award">{{cite web |title=BT MindRush 2021: Here are the winners of India's Best CEOs |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/mindrush/mindrush-2021/story/bt-mindrush-2021-here-are-the-winners-of-indias-best-ceos-285281-2021-01-23 |publisher=Business Today |date=2021-01-23 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The award recognized his contributions to steering HCLTech's growth and transformation strategy.
Vijayakumar has received recognition from industry publications and forums for his leadership of HCLTech. In 2021, he was named among the winners at ''Business Today'''s "India's Best CEOs" awards at the BT MindRush event.<ref name="bt-mindrush">{{cite web |title=BT MindRush 2021: Here are the winners of India's Best CEOs |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/mindrush/mindrush-2021/story/bt-mindrush-2021-here-are-the-winners-of-indias-best-ceos-285281-2021-01-23 |publisher=Business Today |date=2021-01-23 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


His tenure as one of the longest-serving CEOs among major Indian IT firms has itself been cited as a notable distinction within the industry, where CEO tenures at large companies have historically tended to be shorter.<ref name="mint-third-term" /> The multiple extensions of his appointment by HCLTech's board of directors have been interpreted by business analysts as a measure of the company's satisfaction with his leadership performance.
His participation as a contributor to the [[World Economic Forum]]'s agenda platform reflects his standing as a recognized voice in discussions about global technology trends, digital transformation, and enterprise innovation.<ref name="wef" />


Vijayakumar's profile as an industry leader has also been shaped by his engagement with global platforms such as the World Economic Forum and his public commentary on emerging technology trends, particularly around artificial intelligence and its implications for the enterprise technology sector.<ref name="wef" />
''Procurement Magazine'' profiled Vijayakumar in December 2025, highlighting his role in transforming HCLTech from a traditional IT services provider into a more diversified technology company with capabilities spanning software products, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and AI-driven solutions.<ref name="procurement" />


== Legacy ==
== Legacy ==


C. Vijayakumar's tenure at the helm of HCLTech represents one of the longer and more consequential leadership periods in the Indian IT services industry. Since taking over as CEO in 2016, he has overseen a period during which HCLTech consolidated its position as one of India's top three IT services companies by revenue and expanded its global footprint across multiple geographies and service verticals.<ref name="procurement" />
C. Vijayakumar's tenure as CEO and Managing Director of HCLTech represents one of the most consequential leadership periods in the company's history. Since his appointment in 2016, HCLTech has evolved from a company primarily focused on IT services and infrastructure management into a diversified technology firm with a growing portfolio of software products, digital engineering capabilities, and AI-driven services.<ref name="procurement" /><ref name="hcl-about" />
 
His decision to pursue the acquisition of IBM's software products portfolio in 2018 marked a strategic departure for HCLTech and was viewed as one of the more ambitious moves by an Indian IT company to build its own products business. This acquisition diversified HCLTech's revenue streams and provided the company with proprietary software products that complemented its services portfolio.<ref name="procurement" />


His strategic emphasis on diversifying HCLTech's revenue base — particularly through the acquisition of IBM software products and the expansion into engineering, R&D, and AI-related services — has been noted as a differentiating factor in HCLTech's growth trajectory compared to its peers. The company's decision to publicly report generative AI revenue figures, a practice Vijayakumar has championed, has been cited as an example of transparency in how technology companies communicate the business impact of emerging technologies to investors and stakeholders.<ref name="mint-genai" />
As one of the longest-serving CEOs in the Indian IT industry, Vijayakumar's leadership has spanned a period of significant technological change — from the rise of cloud computing and digital transformation to the emergence of generative AI as a transformative force in enterprise technology. His approach to transparently reporting AI revenue and investing in new growth areas has been noted as a distinguishing factor in HCLTech's strategy relative to its peers.<ref name="mint-genai" /><ref name="et-interview" />


As CEO and Managing Director with a mandate extending through 2030, Vijayakumar continues to shape HCLTech's strategy at a time when the global IT services industry faces transformative pressures from AI adoption, evolving client expectations, and changing workforce dynamics.<ref name="storyboard" /><ref name="et-interview" /> His career trajectory — from an engineer at HCL to the company's top executive — also reflects a pattern of internal leadership development that has been characteristic of several major Indian IT companies.
With his third term set to run through March 2030, Vijayakumar is positioned to continue shaping HCLTech's direction as the global technology industry enters a period defined by AI integration, evolving client needs, and shifts in the structure of IT services delivery.<ref name="mint-thirdterm" /><ref name="storyboard" />


== References ==
== References ==
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[[Category:Indian business executives]]
[[Category:Indian business executives]]
[[Category:Indian chief executives]]
[[Category:Indian chief executives]]
[[Category:Indian technology executives]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:People from Tamil Nadu]]
[[Category:People from Tamil Nadu]]
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[[Category:Lawrence School, Lovedale alumni]]
[[Category:Lawrence School, Lovedale alumni]]
[[Category:HCL Technologies people]]
[[Category:HCL Technologies people]]
[[Category:Indian technology executives]]
[[Category:Chief executive officers]]
[[Category:Chief executive officers]]
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Latest revision as of 05:41, 24 February 2026



C. Vijayakumar
C. Vijayakumar
BirthplaceTamil Nadu, India
NationalityIndian
OccupationBusiness executive
TitleCEO and Managing Director
EmployerHCLTech
Known forChief Executive Officer and Managing Director, HCLTech

C. Vijayakumar (commonly referred to as CVK) is an Indian business executive who serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of HCLTech, a multinational information technology services and consulting company headquartered in Noida, India. Appointed CEO in October 2016, Vijayakumar has led HCLTech through a period of significant transformation, overseeing a strategic expansion of the company's service portfolio and guiding it into new growth areas including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital engineering.[1] He additionally assumed the role of Managing Director in July 2021, consolidating his leadership position at the firm.[2] As one of Indian IT's longest-serving CEOs, Vijayakumar was re-appointed for a third term in July 2025, with his tenure extended from September 1, 2025, to March 31, 2030.[3] His compensation in FY25 reached $10.85 million, making him the highest-paid CEO among India's top IT services companies.[4]

Early Life

C. Vijayakumar was born in Tamil Nadu, India.[2] He received his early education at the Lawrence School, Lovedale, a boarding school located in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu.[2] Details about his family background and early childhood have not been extensively documented in public sources.

Education

Vijayakumar completed his secondary education at the Lawrence School, Lovedale, one of India's established boarding schools situated in the Nilgiri Hills.[2] He subsequently pursued higher education at the PSG College of Technology in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree.[2] PSG College of Technology is one of southern India's prominent engineering institutions, affiliated with Anna University.

Career

Early Career at HCL Technologies

Vijayakumar joined HCL Technologies early in his career and rose through various leadership positions within the organization over more than two decades before being named CEO. His career trajectory at HCL encompassed roles across multiple business verticals and service lines, giving him broad operational experience across the company's diverse portfolio of technology services.[2][5]

Prior to his appointment as CEO, Vijayakumar served as the President of the company's largest business unit, overseeing a portfolio of IT services that constituted a significant portion of HCL Technologies' overall revenue. In this capacity, he was responsible for managing client relationships, driving business growth, and executing delivery across key markets.[2]

In August 2016, HCL Technologies appointed Vijayakumar as Chief Operating Officer (COO), a role that positioned him as the operational head of the company and signaled his trajectory toward the top leadership position.[6] His appointment as COO was viewed as a step in the company's leadership succession planning, as HCL Technologies prepared for its next phase of growth under new executive leadership.

Appointment as CEO

On October 24, 2016, HCL Technologies formally announced the appointment of C. Vijayakumar as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.[1] The appointment was announced via a Business Wire release, and the transition marked a new chapter for the company, which was then seeking to accelerate growth and expand its portfolio beyond traditional IT services.

In the announcement, HCL Technologies positioned Vijayakumar's elevation as a reflection of his deep understanding of the company's business operations, client relationships, and strategic direction. His appointment came at a time when the Indian IT services industry was undergoing a significant transformation, with companies pivoting from legacy services toward digital, cloud, and automation-driven offerings.[1]

Transformation and Growth of HCLTech

Under Vijayakumar's leadership, HCL Technologies underwent a substantial transformation in its business strategy and market positioning. One of the defining moves during his tenure was the acquisition of select IBM software products in December 2018, a transaction valued at $1.8 billion. This acquisition brought products such as Domino, BigFix, Unica, AppScan, and several other enterprise software brands under HCL's ownership, marking a strategic diversification from pure-play IT services into software products.[5]

The company also rebranded from "HCL Technologies" to "HCLTech" during Vijayakumar's tenure, signaling a modernized identity and a broader ambition beyond traditional IT services. Under his stewardship, HCLTech expanded its capabilities across several domains including digital engineering, cloud and infrastructure services, cybersecurity, and AI-driven solutions.[5][7]

Vijayakumar's strategic focus has included building HCLTech's capabilities in artificial intelligence and generative AI. As the AI revolution accelerated across the technology industry, he positioned HCLTech as one of the few major Indian IT services companies to publicly disclose its generative AI revenue, providing transparency to stakeholders about the company's progress in this emerging area.[8]

In an interview with The Economic Times in 2025, Vijayakumar articulated HCLTech's strategy of focusing on new growth areas rather than relying on macroeconomic improvements. He identified AI-led software, hardware services, and digital engineering as key growth drivers for the company as the broader $283-billion IT services industry navigated changes in delivery mechanisms and revenue streams.[9]

Managing Director Role and Expanded Responsibilities

In July 2021, Vijayakumar's role was expanded when he was additionally appointed as Managing Director of HCL Technologies, combining the CEO and MD titles.[2] This consolidation of titles reflected the board's confidence in his leadership and provided him with enhanced authority to drive the company's strategic agenda.

The combined CEO and MD role gave Vijayakumar direct oversight of all aspects of HCLTech's operations, including its global delivery network, client engagement strategy, research and development initiatives, and corporate functions. Under this expanded mandate, he continued to steer the company through the evolving technology landscape, including the post-pandemic digital acceleration that saw increased demand for cloud migration, cybersecurity, and remote work solutions.

Re-appointment for Third Term

In July 2025, HCLTech's board of directors approved the re-appointment of Vijayakumar as CEO and Managing Director for a third term, extending his tenure from September 1, 2025, to March 31, 2030. The re-appointment was subject to shareholder approval.[3][10]

The extension made Vijayakumar one of the longest-serving CEOs in the Indian IT industry, a sector where executive tenures have historically varied significantly among the major companies. Mint noted that his continuity at the helm was notable in an industry that had seen frequent leadership changes at several peer companies during the same period.[3]

Alongside the re-appointment, the board approved a significant increase in Vijayakumar's remuneration for FY26, representing a 71 percent hike over his previous compensation package. This positioned his pay well above that of CEOs at competing Indian IT services firms including TCS, Infosys, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra.[11]

AI Strategy and Industry Engagement

Vijayakumar has been an active participant in industry forums and discussions on the role of artificial intelligence in enterprise technology. In 2025, he appeared alongside Jay Chaudhry, CEO and Founder of Zscaler, and Mike Haley, Vice President of Generative AI at Autodesk, at the AI Leadership Mixer, where the executives discussed strategies for enterprise AI adoption.[12]

He has also contributed to discussions at the World Economic Forum, where he has been listed as a contributor on the organization's agenda platform, addressing topics related to technology and business leadership.[13]

Under Vijayakumar's direction, HCLTech has positioned generative AI as a central element of its go-to-market strategy. In earnings discussions and media interviews, he has emphasized the company's approach to quantifying AI revenue and investing in AI-led software products and services, distinguishing HCLTech's disclosure practices from those of several industry peers.[8][9]

Compensation

Vijayakumar's compensation has been a subject of industry attention, particularly in comparison with the remuneration of CEOs at other major Indian IT services companies. For the fiscal year ending March 2025 (FY25), his total compensation reached $10.85 million, making him the highest-paid CEO among India's leading IT companies, surpassing the heads of TCS, Infosys, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra.[4]

For FY26, HCLTech's board approved a 71 percent increase in his remuneration, further widening the compensation gap between Vijayakumar and his counterparts at peer organizations.[11] The board's decision to increase his pay was linked to his re-appointment for a third term and reflected the company's performance and growth trajectory under his leadership.

Recognition

Vijayakumar has received recognition from industry publications and forums for his leadership of HCLTech. In 2021, he was named among the winners at Business Today's "India's Best CEOs" awards at the BT MindRush event.[14]

His participation as a contributor to the World Economic Forum's agenda platform reflects his standing as a recognized voice in discussions about global technology trends, digital transformation, and enterprise innovation.[13]

Procurement Magazine profiled Vijayakumar in December 2025, highlighting his role in transforming HCLTech from a traditional IT services provider into a more diversified technology company with capabilities spanning software products, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and AI-driven solutions.[5]

Legacy

C. Vijayakumar's tenure as CEO and Managing Director of HCLTech represents one of the most consequential leadership periods in the company's history. Since his appointment in 2016, HCLTech has evolved from a company primarily focused on IT services and infrastructure management into a diversified technology firm with a growing portfolio of software products, digital engineering capabilities, and AI-driven services.[5][7]

His decision to pursue the acquisition of IBM's software products portfolio in 2018 marked a strategic departure for HCLTech and was viewed as one of the more ambitious moves by an Indian IT company to build its own products business. This acquisition diversified HCLTech's revenue streams and provided the company with proprietary software products that complemented its services portfolio.[5]

As one of the longest-serving CEOs in the Indian IT industry, Vijayakumar's leadership has spanned a period of significant technological change — from the rise of cloud computing and digital transformation to the emergence of generative AI as a transformative force in enterprise technology. His approach to transparently reporting AI revenue and investing in new growth areas has been noted as a distinguishing factor in HCLTech's strategy relative to its peers.[8][9]

With his third term set to run through March 2030, Vijayakumar is positioned to continue shaping HCLTech's direction as the global technology industry enters a period defined by AI integration, evolving client needs, and shifts in the structure of IT services delivery.[3][10]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "HCL Technologies Appoints C Vijayakumar as Chief Executive Officer".Business Wire.2016-10-24.https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20161024005870/en/HCL-Technologies-Appoints-C-Vijayakumar-as-Chief-Executive-Officer.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 "C Vijayakumar – Leadership".HCLTech.https://www.hcltech.com/about-us/leadership/c-vijayakumar.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 "C Vijayakumar, one of Indian IT's longest-serving CEOs, gets a third term at HCLTech".Mint.2025-07-25.https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/hcltech-ceo-extension-c-vijayakumar-hcl-technologies-indian-it-longest-serving-ceos-hcltech-leadership-hcltech-11753415918636.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 "HCLTech CEO C Vijayakumar out-earns TCS, Infosys heads in FY25 with $10.85 million paycheck".The Economic Times.2025-08-03.https://m.economictimes.com/tech/information-tech/hcltech-ceo-c-vijayakumar-earns-10-85-million-in-fy25-more-than-tcs-infosys-heads/articleshow/123072277.cms.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 "Vijayakumar C".Procurement Magazine.2025-12-17.https://procurementmag.com/executive/vijayakumar-c.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  6. ↑ "HCL Tech appoints COO".The Hindu Business Line.https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/hcl-tech-appoints-coo/article8860146.ece.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 "About HCL Technologies".HCLTech.https://www.hcltech.com/about-us/about-hcl-technologies.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 "CEO C. Vijayakumar spells out why HCLTech is one of the few IT majors putting a number on GenAI revenue".Mint.2025-06-01.https://www.livemint.com/companies/hcltech-q3-earnings-ai-revenue-ceo-c-vijayakumar-it-services-11768295745534.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 "HCLTech is counting on new growth areas like AI-led software, hardware: CEO C Vijayakumar".The Economic Times.2025-06-01.https://m.economictimes.com/tech/information-tech/et-interview-hcltech-is-counting-on-new-growth-areas-instead-of-macro-improvements-ceo-c-vijayakumar/articleshow/126512035.cms.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 "HCLTech re-appoints C Vijayakumar as CEO & MD".Storyboard18.2025-07-26.https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/hcltech-re-appoints-c-vijayakumar-as-ceo-md-77076.htm.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 "HCLTech CEO C Vijayakumar's Salary: 71% hike in FY26! More than TCS, Infosys chiefs".MSN.2025-08-03.https://www.msn.com/en-in/money/news/hcltech-ceo-c-vijayakumar-s-salary-71-hike-in-fy26-more-than-tcs-infosys-chiefs/ar-AA1JNUVw.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  12. ↑ "AI Leadership Mixer – C Vijayakumar, Jay Chaudhry, Mike Haley".LinkedIn (CNBC-TV18).https://www.linkedin.com/posts/cnbc-tv18_aileadershipmixer-futureenterprise-cnbctv18-activity-7430500648409776129-PIU-.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 "C Vijayakumar – Agenda Authors".World Economic Forum.https://www.weforum.org/agenda/authors/c-vijayakumar.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  14. ↑ "BT MindRush 2021: Here are the winners of India's Best CEOs".Business Today.2021-01-23.https://www.businesstoday.in/mindrush/mindrush-2021/story/bt-mindrush-2021-here-are-the-winners-of-indias-best-ceos-285281-2021-01-23.Retrieved 2026-02-24.

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