Biography of Pradeep Kar: Founder & Chairman of Microland- Indian Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurial Journey of Pradeep Kar
Pradeep Kar, born on March 11, 1958, has carved a remarkable
path in the technology sector, notably as the Founder, Chairman, and Managing
Director of Microland, a prominent player in digital transformation.
As a serial entrepreneur, Pradeep Kar has founded and
successfully sold three technology companies. These include Indya.com, acquired
by Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation, Planetasia.com, India's first Internet
Professional Services Company, and Net Brahma Technologies. His ventures
exemplify strategic foresight and entrepreneurial acumen.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Throughout his career, Pradeep Kar has demonstrated a knack
for entrepreneurial ventures. He founded and successfully sold three technology
companies, each contributing significantly to the industry. Notably, Indya.com,
acquired by Rupert Murdoch’s News Corporation, marked a pivotal achievement in
his career. Additionally, Planetasia.com, India’s pioneering internet
professional services firm, and Net Brahma Technologies showcase his strategic
foresight and leadership.
Early Life and Education
Raja Kumar Kar began his journey in technology and business
with a degree from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology in 1981. He
then pursued further studies, obtaining a master's degree in business
administration from the S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research.
Career Beginnings and International Ventures
Kar commenced his career at Wipro before venturing to the
United States to lead Sonata Software for three years. His experience abroad
enriched his perspective on global business dynamics.
Founding Microland and Entrepreneurial Ventures
Upon returning to India, Kar founded Microland, where he has
served as Chairman to date. Under his leadership, Microland has grown into a
prominent player in the IT services sector, known for its innovation and
customer-centric approach.
Ventures in the Dotcom Era
During the dotcom boom, Kar launched several pioneering
ventures including Planetasia.com, ITspace.com, Media2India.com, and Indya.com.
These ventures capitalized on the burgeoning digital economy of the time and
were eventually sold as part of strategic moves in the market.
Recognition and Awards
Raja Kumar Kar's entrepreneurial acumen has been widely
recognized. He received the Indian Express 'India Young Business Achiever
Award' for his contributions to business leadership. His innovative approach
and leadership qualities led to his selection as a 'Global Leader for Tomorrow'
by the World Economic Forum. He has also been featured in prestigious
publications such as 'Newsweek International' and 'Business India' as a
standout figure in business and technology.
Leadership at Microland
Under Pradeep Kar’s leadership, Microland has emerged as a
leader in digital transformation. His vision and innovative strategies have
propelled the company to the forefront of the industry, navigating the
complexities of modern technology and business landscapes.
Biography of Pradeep Kar: Founder & Chairman of Microland- Entrepreneur/ Startup/Net Brahma Technologies/Planetasia.com/Indya.com/Journey of Pradeep
Cultural Contribution
Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Pradeep Kar is actively
involved in cultural endeavors, notably as part of the Bengaluru Literature
Festival. His commitment to literature and arts reflects a well-rounded
approach to personal and professional pursuits, enriching the cultural fabric
of his community.
Kar's Diverse Board and Affiliation Roles
Mr. Kar's professional journey is marked by significant
roles in global business and educational institutions, reflecting his diverse
interests and leadership capabilities.
UBM plc: A Decade of Global Influence
From 2006 to 2016, Mr. Kar served as a Non-Executive
Director of UBM plc., a prominent global events-led marketing and
communications services company listed on the London Stock Exchange. His tenure
contributed to UBM's strategic direction during a period of significant growth
and expansion in global markets.
Telstra Telecommunications India: Guiding Strategic
Initiatives
Currently, Mr. Kar sits on the Board of Telstra
Telecommunications India, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the
company's strategic initiatives and enhancing its presence in the Indian
telecommunications sector.
Trinity College, Dublin: Contributing to Academic Excellence
As a member of the Provost's Council of Trinity College,
Dublin, Mr. Kar supports the institution's academic and administrative
endeavors, fostering partnerships and initiatives that promote educational
excellence and global engagement.
Recognition and Leadership
Pradeep Kar's leadership in the Indian IT industry earned
him recognition as a 'Global Leader for Tomorrow' by the World Economic Forum
in 1999. He served as a Non-Executive Director on the board of UBM plc from
2006 to 2016 and on the Board of Telstra Telecommunications, India, from 2011
to 2021, further demonstrating his influence and expertise
Commitment to Education and Arts
Beyond business, Pradeep Kar has made significant
contributions to education and arts. He served as the First Chairman of the
Governing Council of Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology,
Bangalore, and was the President of The Indus Entrepreneurs' (TIE), Bangalore
Chapter. He is also a founding member of the Young Presidents Organization
(YPO), Bangalore Chapter.
Srishti Institute of Art, Design & Technology: Chairing
Governance
Mr. Kar serves as the Chairman of the Governing Council of
the Srishti Institute of Art, Design & Technology in Bangalore. In this
capacity, he guides the institute's governance policies and strategic
direction, promoting innovation and creativity in arts and design education.
Commitment to Diversity and Social Causes
Driven by a passion for diversity and inclusivity, Pradeep
Kar places people at the forefront of Microland's agenda with a focus on
'People Prioritized'. His commitment extends to social causes through the
Microland Foundation, which engages in educational, environmental, healthcare,
and employment initiatives, showcasing his compassionate leadership.
Academic Stewardship
Since 2016, Pradeep Kar has been a member of the Provost's
Council for Trinity College Dublin, contributing to academic stewardship at one
of Europe's oldest and most esteemed universities. His involvement underscores
his dedication to global education and knowledge sharing.
The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) and Young Presidents
Organization (YPO): Fostering Entrepreneurship
Having served as President of The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE),
Bangalore Chapter, Mr. Kar actively promotes entrepreneurship and mentorship
among emerging business leaders. He is also a Founding Member of the Bangalore
Chapter of the Young Presidents Organization, connecting top executives
globally for professional development and networking.
NASSCOM: Advocating for IT Infrastructure Management
Mr. Kar chairs the Infrastructure Management Services Forum
of NASSCOM, the premier trade association for the Indian software and services
industry. In this role, he advocates for policies and initiatives that
strengthen the industry's infrastructure capabilities and global
competitiveness.
Through his diverse board and affiliation roles, Mr. Kar
exemplifies a commitment to excellence, leadership, and strategic vision across
global business, education, and industry sectors. His contributions continue to
shape and influence organizations, fostering growth, innovation, and
sustainable development.
A timeline highlighting the entrepreneurial journey and
significant milestones in the career of Pradeep Kar:
1958: Pradeep Kar is born on March 11th.
1981: Graduates from Visvesvaraya National Institute of
Technology with a degree in engineering.
1983: Completes his Master's in Business Administration from
the S.P. Jain Institute of Management & Research.
Early Career:
Joins Wipro at the start of his career.
1990s:
Founding of Indya.com, which later gets acquired by Rupert
Murdoch's News Corporation.
Establishes Planetasia.com, India's first Internet
Professional Services Company.
Founds Net Brahma Technologies.
1999:
Recognized as a 'Global Leader for Tomorrow' by the World
Economic Forum.
2000s:
Founding of Microland, where he serves as Founder, Chairman,
and Managing Director.
2006-2016:
Serves as Non-Executive Director on the board of UBM plc, a
global events-led marketing and communications services company.
2011-2021:
Holds a position on the Board of Telstra Telecommunications
India, contributing to strategic initiatives.
Present:
Chairs the Governing Council of the Srishti Institute of
Art, Design & Technology in Bangalore.
Active involvement in The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) and
Young Presidents Organization (YPO) in Bangalore.
Advocates for IT infrastructure management as chair of the
Infrastructure Management Services Forum of NASSCOM.
Pradeep Kar's journey is marked by his entrepreneurial
ventures in technology, leadership roles in global organizations, and
commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in India's IT industry.
His contributions extend beyond business into education, arts, and social
causes, reflecting a multifaceted approach to leadership and community
development.
