Williams Dhanaraj : Beyond the Cubicle

How has your journey at Inspirisys shaped your career?

My time at Inspirisys has played a significant role in shaping my career. With 15 years of experience in the banking industry, the company has given me the opportunity to lead critical implementation and migration projects such as GBM, Netcast, BI 360, and GBS Ultra. These experiences have helped me grow as a leader, sharpen my problem-solving skills, and enhance my ability to manage teams effectively. Working on these digital banking transformation projects has been particularly fulfilling, allowing me to contribute in the best ways to the future of banking.

What do you enjoy most about working at Inspirisys?

The work culture at Inspirisys is something I deeply appreciate. It provides an environment that encourages growth and learning, where I can contribute to significant projects that make a difference. Beyond the professional side, I also enjoy the office activities that help strengthen teamwork and engagement. They offer a great chance to connect with colleagues on a personal level, making the workplace more enjoyable. It’s a place where both career development and meaningful relationships go hand in hand.

What are your current roles and responsibilities in the Banking Unit?

As a Project Lead in the Banking Unit, I’m responsible for overseeing the end-to-end execution of large banking implementation and migration projects. My day-to-day activities involve, planning, setting timelines, and making sure everything runs smoothly. I work closely with banks, IT teams, and vendors to keep everyone on the same page. A big part of my role is managing risks and optimizing processes to minimize disruptions. I also lead our cross-functional teams to drive efficiency and innovation. Once the project is live, I provide support and conduct post-implementation reviews to ensure a seamless transition.

How would you describe your leadership style?

I lead by focusing on collaboration, setting clear direction, and empowering my team. I believe in aligning everyone towards a shared vision, where each team member understands their role in achieving our goals. My approach is people-focused—I encourage personal growth, mentorship, and open dialogue, which allows everyone to contribute purposefully. When challenges arise, I take a proactive stance, addressing issues quickly and effectively. I also prioritize continuous improvement, always looking for ways to refine our approach and reach higher standards. At the heart of it, I believe a motivated and supported team is key to delivering exceptional results in banking solutions.

Personal Reflections

What key skills have you developed during your time at Inspirisys?

Over the years at Inspirisys, I've had the opportunity to develop some key skills that have shaped both my professional growth and my leadership style. Project execution has become second nature to me, especially when it comes to navigating complex tasks and deadlines. I’ve also learned the importance of stakeholder management—keeping everyone aligned and focused on common goals is crucial for success. Critical thinking is something I’ve honed as well, especially in high-pressure situations that require quick, strategic decisions. Most importantly, I’ve developed leadership abilities that help guide my team through challenges and encourage them to achieve their best, regardless of the circumstances.

What’s your approach to building a positive culture among your team members?

I’m someone who’s easy to approach and communicate with, and I make it a point to keep things smooth and open. While I’m firm and focused when it comes to work, I also believe in creating space for my team to connect on a personal level. I encourage team bonding activities, like playing sports after work, to help us unwind and bond on a personal level. Additionally, I enjoy getting my team involved in creative activities like skits, which helps us break away from the usual routine and brings out our fun side. These breather moments help us bond, build trust, and support one another, strengthening our collaboration. When the team has fun together, it creates a sense of unity that enhances our teamwork back at work.

What have been your biggest achievements to date?

I’d say my biggest achievements have come from the successful completion of major banking implementations, where we were able to meet tight deadlines and deliver results that had a lasting impact. Contributing to process improvements has also been a rewarding experience—whether it was refining workflows or finding ways to make our operations more efficient, every change has brought us closer to excellence. Another highlight for me has been mentoring young talent. Watching them grow, helping them navigate challenges, and seeing their potential develop has been truly fulfilling. Being part of their journey has been just as rewarding as my own.

What’s the most memorable moment you’ve had at work?

One moment that stands out to me was when I had the opportunity to lead a highly challenging project under tight timelines. Despite the hurdles along the way, guiding the project to a successful conclusion and watching it come to fruition was deeply satisfying. What made it even more meaningful was the appreciation I received from the clients as well as from leadership. That recognition reinforced my belief in the power of teamwork, persistence, and dedication.

Life Outside the Lines

What is one activity outside of work that gives you personal satisfaction and keeps you engaged?

Outside of work, I find immense satisfaction in giving back to the community. For me, philanthropy goes beyond just giving money; it’s about actively helping others in any way I can to make a positive difference in their lives. I’ve always been driven by the desire to assist those in need, and over the years, I’ve found that the more I help, the more fulfilled I feel. A cause close to my heart is the social welfare trust I run, which provides wheelchairs and essential support to physically disabled individuals. I also had the opportunity to volunteer during the Vardah cyclone in Chennai, where I worked alongside others to provide aid to those affected by the disaster. These experiences continually remind me of the power of kindness and the difference one can make in someone’s life.

Are there any hobbies or activities that you’re particularly passionate about outside of work?

I’m a big movie buff. I love exploring films from different genres and cultures—there’s always something new to learn from each one. In addition to that, I have a passion for singing and scriptwriting. I enjoy expressing myself creatively through these outlets and even participate in cultural events where I can share my love for both music and dance. These activities allow me to unwind, connect with others, and explore my creative side, which helps me stay engaged and inspired.

If you could pursue any other career, what would it be?

If I had the chance, I would love to be a film director or writer. Movies have always fascinated me, not just as a form of entertainment, but as a medium to tell powerful stories. The ability to create compelling narratives and bring characters to life on screen is something I find incredibly exciting. Whether it's directing or scriptwriting, the idea of shaping stories that could inspire or move people is a career I’d be passionate about.

If you could have dinner with any movie star/ historical figure, who would it be and why?

I would love to have dinner with APJ Abdul Kalam. His vision and determination are highly inspiring. Although I’m passionate about movies and storytelling, it’s legends like him who offer real-life narratives that are equally profound. His leadership, humility, and ability to motivate others would make for an unforgettable conversation. I’m sure there’s much to learn from his experiences, and it would be an honor to hear his thoughts on life, science, and the future.

What's the one thing on your bucket list you want to achieve?

One goal I’m determined to achieve soon is directing and releasing a short film that highlights a meaningful social cause. I believe films have the unique ability to create awareness and inspire action, and I’m eager to use that platform to shed light on something important. It’s something I’m truly passionate about, and I can’t wait to bring this vision to life.