Harish Kohli Managing director of ACER INDIA PRIVATE LIMITED – Leaders In Tech & Auto

Ex: What’s your leadership mantra in the fast-evolving tech landscape 

In a world where technology evolves at the speed of thought, my leadership mantra is: lead with clarity, adapt with agility, and empower through trust. Staying ahead isn’t just about embracing innovation—it’s about nurturing resilient teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and keeping the customer at the center of every transformation. Leadership today means being future-ready while staying anchored to the values that shape our decisions and actions.

Ex: How do you inspire and motivate your team during a challenging time?

Challenging times reveal the true essence of leadership and unlock a team’s hidden strengths. I focus on leading with honesty, empathy, and a well-defined purpose. Open communication and a shared vision help us transform challenges into forward motion. I make it a point to empower each team member, acknowledge progress—no matter how small—and nurture a deep sense of unity. Most importantly, I encourage the belief that every hurdle is a chance to come back stronger, and that shared resilience is what ultimately propels us forward.

Ex: In an era of AI and automation, how do you see the role of human leadership evolving?

In an era dominated by AI and automation, human leadership becomes more vital—not less. While technology can drive efficiency and scale, it’s human insight, empathy, and judgment that bring meaning and direction. I see the role of leadership evolving toward being more people-centric—fostering creativity, emotional intelligence, and ethical decision-making. As machines take over repetitive tasks, leaders must focus on empowering teams, cultivating trust, and ensuring that innovation remains aligned with human values. The future belongs to leaders who can blend the power of technology with the depth of human connection.

Also Read: Interview of Bharath Sesha – MD for the Indian subcontinent Philips

Ex: Tell us about a major screw-up in your career—what went wrong and what did you learn?

Every leader encounters moments that don’t go as planned—and I’ve certainly had mine. There have been times when decisions, though well-intentioned, didn’t yield the outcomes we hoped for. These experiences reinforced a few timeless lessons: the importance of deep listening, the value of cross-functional alignment, and the need to stay attuned to ground realities. Leadership isn’t about never making mistakes; it’s about taking accountability, learning quickly, and emerging more thoughtful and prepared each time.

Ex: What’s a mistake you see many young tech entrepreneurs making?

A common mistake many young tech entrepreneurs make is focusing too heavily on the product itself and not enough on the underlying problem it aims to solve. Innovation becomes valuable only when it addresses a genuine need. Often, there’s a rush to build and launch without fully understanding the customer, the market, or the long-term impact. I also emphasize that technology is just one part of the equation. To build a sustainable business, entrepreneurs need strong fundamentals, a clear vision, and a team aligned with that vision. Striking the right balance between passion and patience is crucial.

Ex: How do you handle failure, and how do you encourage failure-friendly 

To me, failure is not the opposite of success—it’s an integral part of the path to it. I view failure as valuable feedback, an opportunity to learn, adapt, and become stronger. Some of the most insightful lessons come from the moments when things don’t go as planned.

Creating a failure-friendly culture starts by ensuring psychological safety, where team members feel confident taking risks and speaking up. I encourage experimentation, celebrate the lessons learned from setbacks, and prioritize progress over perfection. When people are not afraid to fail, they are more likely to innovate—and that’s where real breakthroughs take shape.

Ex: What’s the next big disruption you foresee in the tech industry?

The next big disruption in the tech industry will emerge from the convergence of AI, quantum computing, and ethical technology. We’re moving beyond individual breakthroughs to a future where intelligent systems not only process data but can anticipate needs, make decisions, and interact with the world in deeply human-like ways. Quantum computing, in particular, holds the potential to transform industries—from revolutionizing healthcare solutions to redefining cybersecurity.

Yet, as these advancements unfold, the true disruption will lie in how we govern and humanize technology—ensuring it’s transparent, responsible, and inclusive. The leaders of tomorrow won’t just be those with the most advanced technology, but those who have earned the trust of society through ethical practices and accountability.

Ex: How do you unplug from the tech world? Or do you? Any non-negotiable habits?

Over the past 20 years, I’ve cultivated a morning routine that anchors me, regardless of how demanding or unpredictable the day ahead may be. My day begins at 5:00 AM with 45 minutes of meditation and yoga, a practice I’ve followed for years. This quiet time is invaluable—it allows me to center myself, reflect, and prepare for the day with clarity and purpose.

Afterward, I catch up on the news while enjoying a nourishing breakfast. This routine is more than just a habit; it’s a non-negotiable part of my life that keeps me balanced, focused, and ready to take on the challenges of the day. In a world that’s always on, this is my way of unplugging and reconnecting with what truly matters.

Ex: What books that changed your perspective on leadership & Technology 

I’m an enthusiastic reader with a diverse collection of books from across the globe, and whenever I get the chance, I prefer reading over other forms of entertainment. Some books that have had a profound impact on my view of leadership and technology include Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek, The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton Christensen, and Deep Thinking by Garry Kasparov—each offering invaluable insights into leadership, disruption, and the future of technology.

Ex: Podcasts and inspiring quotes that you want to recommend to our readers 

Podcasts are an excellent way to stay inspired and informed, no matter where you are. A few that I recommend are The Knowledge Project by Shane Parrish, which dives deep into decision-making and leadership, Masters of Scale by Reid Hoffman, offering valuable insights for entrepreneurs, and The Daily Stoic, which delivers timeless wisdom to help navigate the complexities of today’s fast-paced world.

In terms of quotes, one that continues to inspire me is from Admiral William H. McRaven: “If you want to change the world, start by making your bed.” This simple yet profound message reminds us that small, consistent actions can lead to significant change. Another quote I value is, “Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” It’s a principle I strive to embody in every decision I make, and it’s a powerful approach for anyone in a leadership role.