K. V. Rao is a seasoned global business leader with over four decades of experience across Asia-Pacific. He currently serves as Senior Advisor at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and as Chairman & Director of Tata International Singapore Pte Ltd, while also chairing Tata Motors Indonesia. He sits on the boards of LIC International Singapore, India International Insurance, and MAS Amity Pte Ltd.

Previously, he was the Resident Director – ASEAN for Tata Sons, overseeing the Group’s strategic interests across Southeast Asia, and held leadership positions across several Tata entities including Tata Power International, Tata Chemicals International, Tata Capital Singapore, and Trust Energy Resources. His career also includes service with the Singapore Civil Service, underscoring his wide global and cross-cultural experience.

Beyond corporate leadership, Rao is deeply engaged in civic and cultural institutions. He is President of the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS), a Trustee of SINDA, and Senior Fellow at The Conference Board Asia Human Capital Center. Honored as a Distinguished Alumnus of IIFT in 2011, he is a sought-after speaker on globalization, governance, and India–ASEAN business dynamics.

1. How can businesses successfully navigate and expand in Asia’s complex and diverse markets, especially India–ASEAN?
2. What leadership skills are essential for thriving in an increasingly globalized and cross-cultural business environment?
3. How should organizations build resilience and adapt their strategies amidst global volatility and disruption?

Listening to Mr. K. V. Rao is like tapping into four decades of global leadership experience. His perspectives on globalization and resilience are both thought-provoking and highly relevant for today’s business leaders.