Leader’s Corner: Utkarsh Srivastav, L&T Technology Services

L&T Technology Services’ Senior Director of Brand, Social and Digital Marketing shares his journey of leading impactful marketing initiatives, emphasising the importance of high-order thinking, innovation and team empowerment.

Recently recognised as one of the Top 100 Future B2B CMOs, Utkarsh Srivastav's approach to marketing is rooted in strategy, innovation and a deep commitment to empowering his team. In this Leader’s Corner interview recorded at The Studio, explore how Srivastav's leadership has driven significant marketing success and created lasting value for his organisation.

Leader's Corner insights with Utkarsh Srivastav:

• The art of listening and non-linear thinking
• Impactful projects and innovative initiatives
• Empowering teams to deliver

The art of listening and non-linear thinking

One of the key lessons Srivastav has learned throughout his career is the art of listening, particularly to senior leaders who have imparted valuable wisdom. 

He explains, "Marketing is a non-linear thinking function. The efforts you put in must have a non-linear impact, and it needs to be dual-speed. You have to think long-term while also achieving quick wins." This balanced approach has allowed Srivastav to drive impactful marketing strategies that resonate both in the short term and over the long haul.

Impactful projects and innovative initiatives

Srivastav's passion for marketing is evident in the diverse and meaningful projects he has led. One such initiative close to his heart was a CSR project with the Prince's Trust, aimed at helping disadvantaged youth develop digital and technology skills. "It was a fascinating experience," he recalls, "working on something that had a larger-than-life impact."

Another project that stands out for Srivastav is a 3,000-mile bus tour across Europe with L&T Technology Services. While running a bus tour might not seem unique, the reception it received both on the ground and online was extraordinary. "The passion we saw from people and the way we executed it was a fascinating experience," Srivastav shares. The project successfully elevated the brand's presence and created a lasting impact in multiple cities.

Empowering teams to deliver

Srivastav is quick to credit his team's creativity and boldness as key drivers of success. 

"It all boils down to the team and the set of people you work with," he emphasises. According to Srivastav, a great marketing team must be empowered to think fast, act quickly, and deliver with innovation and courage. "Creating an environment of trust and providing opportunities to experiment with confidence are crucial," he adds. 

Srivastav believes that giving his team the freedom to interact with the business and engage with customers is essential for fostering innovation and achieving scale.

Watch the full Leader’s Corner interview with Uktarsh Srivastav.

Leader's Corner: check out our line-up of HotTopics Leaders Profile interviews.

HotTopics produces interviews with a diverse array of leaders, C-suite marketing and technology leaders. These take place in-person during our much-anticipated flagship event, The Studio, and virtually with leaders based all over the world. Learn more about what makes these leaders tick, and their experiences and expertise that have supported them in their careers so far.