In the world of registry services, where efficiency and precision are paramount, Sumit Poddar stands out as a driving force behind operational excellence and sustainable growth. With over 20 years of experience in turning challenges into opportunities, Sumit has made a significant impact at Foster Moore, where he currently serves as Director of Operational Excellence. His approach to leadership—anchored in servant leadership principles—has fostered a culture of continuous improvement, enabling Foster Moore to deliver world-class solutions to clients across the globe.
Throughout his career, Sumit has become known for his ability to streamline complex processes, drive digital transformation, and build long-lasting, client-centric relationships. His expertise in operational efficiency has earned him the trust of colleagues and clients alike.
In this Registry People Profile, we dive into Sumit’s journey, his passion for people, and how his work has helped shape the way Foster Moore supports and grows its global footprint. Through his insights, we explore how Sumit continues to influence the future of registries, from operational improvements to digital transformation, making him a true insider in the field.
Q & A with Sumit Poddar
Congratulations on your recent appointment as Director of Operational Excellence at Foster Moore! Can you share more about your role and responsibilities?
Thank you! My role focuses on driving efficiency and continuous improvement across our operations. This means optimizing processes, ensuring we deliver top-quality registry solutions, and fostering a culture where our teams can work smarter, not harder. My goal is to enhance the way we serve our clients while supporting internal teams to perform at their best.
Let’s go back to the beginning. With an impressive 20-year career across three countries, what initially sparked your interest in IT and digital transformation?
I grew up in Nigeria and moved to India in my early teens. When I pursued IT, I knew it was a field with a promising future and endless opportunities, but what really motivated me was the potential to make a positive impact. My early career as a software engineer exposed me to various aspects of technology, but it wasn’t long before I realized there was more to IT than just building solutions. Getting involved in testing gave me a broader view of how systems work end-to-end, which ultimately shaped my approach to problem-solving and efficiency.
What would you say is one of the most defining moments of your career?
There are two standout moments for me. A defining moment in my career was developing a framework for testing Voice and Video over-IP technology at a time when it was still an emerging innovation. This project was not only my entry into the field of testing but also a challenge that pushed me to think creatively, solve a very complex problem, and adapt quickly. Working with a brand-new technology deepened my technical expertise and reinforced my passion for tackling cutting-edge challenges—shaping the way I approach problem-solving to this day. The other defining moment was moving to Australia as Deputy Country Manager for Foster Moore. That experience not only broadened my professional perspective but also influenced my family’s journey in a significant way.
How did your background in test management and quality assurance shape your approach to operational excellence?
My experience in testing and quality assurance gave me a deep appreciation for the customer’s perspective. It’s one thing to build a product, but understanding how users interact with it and ensuring it meets their needs is crucial. This background allows me to bridge the gap between technical execution and customer satisfaction, ensuring we deliver solutions that truly add value.
Having transitioned from a software engineer to a senior leadership role at a global company, what advice would you give to those just starting in tech?
Beyond technical expertise, I’d encourage early-career professionals to develop their soft skills. Technical skills will get you in the door, but communication, collaboration, and adaptability are what will help you grow and lead. At some point in your career, your ability to work with people, influence decisions, and lead teams becomes just as important as your technical know-how. In addition, having the right attitude is very important; skills can be taught, but a mindset of curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to embrace challenges is what truly will help you grow.
Is there a mentor or leader who has influenced your leadership style?
Absolutely. Kim de Moor, my manager for the past seven years, has played a huge role in my growth and development. He has provided incredible support and guidance throughout my career. Joel Foster, one of Foster Moore’s founders, has also been a big influence. His vision, innovation, and commitment to people were truly inspiring. Equally impactful was his leadership style—empowering others, fostering growth, and cultivating an environment where ideas could flourish.
Having worked across APAC, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, how do you navigate different time zones, cultures, and working styles?
It comes down to being open-minded, actively listening, and taking the time to understand different perspectives. No two people or cultures are the same, so instead of making assumptions, I try to learn about people’s backgrounds, what drives them, and how they work best. This approach not only helps build strong relationships but also fosters effective collaboration across different regions.
You’ve spoken about embracing the principles of servant leadership. What does that mean to you?
To me, embracing the principles of servant leadership means putting the team's needs first, creating an environment where team members can thrive and succeed, and removing obstacles so they can do their best work. It is about leading by example—rolling up my sleeves, getting into the work alongside them, and being hands-on when needed. True leadership isn’t about authority; it’s about support, guidance, and ensuring that everyone has the resources and encouragement to reach their full potential. It creates an environment where people feel valued and motivated to contribute to the bigger picture.
With such a busy role, how do you unwind and maintain work-life balance?
Sports help me disconnect, especially badminton. It’s a great way to stay active and clear my mind. I also love spending time with my family—whether it’s outings with my daughter or just relaxing at home with our pets. We have a dog and two cats, so there’s never a dull moment!
What technological innovations do you believe will significantly impact the registry industry in the coming years?
I think advancements in information security and AI will be game-changers. In security, biometrics will play a crucial role in enhancing identity verification and fraud prevention. AI, on the other hand, has the potential to revolutionize registries by improving fraud detection, optimizing data insights, and automating processes to make registries more efficient and intelligent.
What advice would you give to registries worldwide to stay ahead of emerging trends and provide exceptional service?
Stay informed by following industry leaders and keeping an eye on key trends. Attending industry conferences is also invaluable—not just for learning, but for networking with peers and exchanging ideas. Continuous learning and adaptability are key to staying ahead in this fast-evolving space.
Through his expertise in operational excellence, his passion for continuous improvement, and his commitment to fostering strong, collaborative teams, Sumit Poddar is having a positive impact in our company and the registry world. His insights and skills are helping Foster Moore and its clients navigate the ever-changing landscape of digital transformation, proving that true innovation is not just about technology—it’s about people.
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