As the dreary funding winter soars, at e27, we are kickstarting a new article series Line of Hire to understand an organisation’s culture and hiring philosophies to empower tech workers with the right growth tools to enable business owners to attract talent.

Viveka Kalidasan, PhD has been recognised as MIT Technology Review’s 35 Innovator under 35 and also one of the top 100 Women in Technology in Singapore. Kalidasan is a tech agnostic, who believes that impactful technologies empower lives.

She heads the innovation lab of Ultra Clean Holdings Inc., (UCT) in Singapore, called Let-Lab and helps create new ventures out of startups and innovations that solve unmet needs in the semiconductor industry 4.0 space.

Kalidasan is an accomplished innovator and technopreneur who specialises in the development of cutting-edge medical devices that prioritise patient well-being. Her expertise lies in femtech solutions, and she takes a comprehensive approach to the research and development, clinical trials, regulatory compliance, and commercialisation of medtech. In addition, she is committed to driving the creation of sustainable Industry 4.0 innovations, which will have a significant impact on the future of healthcare.

She co-founded The Edify Project to empower deserving talents across the globe through innovative mentorship strategies.

What personality traits/qualities do you look for in potential employees?

Integrity is the key trait I look for in an employee. Alongside, as I build a team, I look for complementary skill sets with me and also with the rest of the team, so that the team is well-rounded. I also ensure that I personally make it a very diverse and inclusive team.

How do they fit into your company culture? Tell us a little more about your company culture.

My company culture is very inclusive and it is easy for anyone to fit in. I was hired to build and head an industry 4.0-focused startup accelerator when I was pregnant. Manufacturing being a hyper male-dominated field, I could gel myself and establish myself within the ecosystem.

How do you foster transparency and encourage achievement in the workplace?

As mentioned earlier, integrity is a key trait I look for in my employees. I definitely do not encourage talking behind the back of another employee, while I’m mindful of giving a safe ‘hearing’ space for hearing employee concerns.

I motivate my team by encouraging them about the outcome and its impact. I bring them out for team dinners and also invite them to my place to give them an at-home feel.

Do you have a mental health policy? What does that look like?

I encourage my employees to share their concerns with them and immediately address or take them up to HR if needed.

WFH or WFO, or hybrid?

Hybrid.

How should a tech worker prepare for the funding winter?

Tech space becoming a volatile and unpredictable field, due to layoffs. It is always good to save for rainy days, be updated, be well-connected and stay hungry, always.

How do you measure the performance of your employees?

Based on their willingness to learn and proactiveness. Also, their ability to deliver the results on time.

Will you consider a moderately skilled person with great honesty or a highly skilled person with less honesty when hiring?

Absolutely, a moderately skilled person with great honesty

Do you encourage ‘intrapreneurship’ in your organisation?

As an entrepreneur and intrapreneur myself, I encourage my employees to build their own projects/services/products. I connect them with all the stakeholders and expand their network. I encourage them usually by showing my life and professional journey as an example.

How do you support upskilling for your employees?

Encourage them to attend online and offline courses, stay updated with the latest technologies, and allow them to try new techs and innovations within the project.

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Echelon Asia Summit 2023 brings together APAC’s leading startups, corporates, policymakers, industry leaders, and investors to Singapore this June 14-15. Learn more and get tickets here. Echelon also features the TOP100 stage, where startups can pitch to 5000+ delegates, among other benefits like connecting with investors, visibility through the platform, and other prizes. Join TOP100 here.

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