Narayana Murthy

N. R. Narayana Murthy, a name synonymous with Indian entrepreneurship and ethical business practices, co-founded Infosys, a global IT consulting and services company, in 1981. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a titan of the tech industry is a testament to his vision, dedication, and commitment to values.

Born in Mysore, India, Murthy’s early life instilled in him the importance of education and hard work. He pursued a degree in electrical engineering from the National Institute of Engineering and later a master’s degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur. Before embarking on his entrepreneurial journey, he held positions at various institutions, including IIM Ahmedabad, where he worked as a systems programmer.

The establishment of Infosys with six other co-founders on a meager initial investment of $250 was a pivotal moment. Murthy’s leadership played a crucial role in shaping Infosys into a company known for its transparent governance, employee-centric policies, and customer focus. He served as CEO from 1981 to 2002, during which time he spearheaded its growth and expansion into international markets. He then served as the Chairman and Chief Mentor until 2011, and briefly returned as Executive Chairman in 2013 to help steer the company through a period of transition.

Murthy’s vision extended beyond just building a successful business. He aimed to create a company that prioritized values and ethics, a stark contrast to the prevailing business culture in India at the time. He championed the concept of “compassionate capitalism,” where businesses create wealth but also contribute to the well-being of society. Infosys became renowned for its employee stock option plan (ESOP), which allowed employees to share in the company’s success, fostering a sense of ownership and loyalty. He insisted on meritocracy, transparency, and accountability within the organization.

Beyond Infosys, Murthy has been a vocal advocate for corporate social responsibility and has played an active role in various philanthropic initiatives. He established the Infosys Science Foundation, which supports research and innovation in various fields, and has been involved in promoting education and healthcare. He has also served on the boards of several prestigious institutions, including the United Nations Foundation and the Ford Foundation.

Narayana Murthy’s contributions to the Indian IT industry and his unwavering commitment to ethical business practices have earned him numerous accolades and recognition worldwide. He is widely regarded as a role model for entrepreneurs and business leaders, inspiring them to build companies that are not only profitable but also socially responsible and ethically sound. His legacy continues to shape the business landscape in India and beyond.