05.07.25 By Bridgenext Think Tank
In this edition of our Meet the Team series, we’re excited to spotlight one of the longest-serving leaders at Bridgenext – Venkatesh Iyengar (Venky), Vice President of Engineering. Based in Pune, India, Venky has been a cornerstone of our engineering journey for over two decades. From his early days at Covelix to now spearheading strategic digital initiatives at Bridgenext, his story is a remarkable blend of curiosity, resilience, and quiet leadership.
Join us as we get to know the man behind the title—his path into tech, his passion for solving complex problems, and the values that continue to shape his approach to leadership and innovation.
Bridgenext Team Stats:
How did you get into the field of engineering and technology? Share your career journey:
Honestly, it happened by chance. I started my career after completing a management degree and joined Kinetic Honda. That’s where I first encountered computers and saw how they could streamline business operations. That sparked something in me. I ended up pursuing a Java certification, and that was my entry point into the world of technology.
I began working at a startup in Pune, then spent a brief stint at Patni in Mumbai before returning to Pune to join what is now Bridgenext (then Covelix). I was the fifth person to join the Covelix team (acquired by Bridgenext), and from there, my journey with the company began. Over the years, I’ve taken on various roles—from software engineer to lead and principal architect—working across different technologies and platforms. Today, I focus on helping teams with solutioning, delivery, resource management, and overall account operations.
What excites you most about leading transformational digital initiatives at Bridgenext?
For me, it’s the ability to create lasting impact. These initiatives aren’t just about implementing technology – they’re about laying the foundation for long-term success. Knowing that what we do today can shape the future for our Bridgenext clients is incredibly rewarding.
Tell us about a project that you’re particularly proud of. What was the impact?
One standout project was with a video intelligence provider in the transportation and logistics industry. Back in 2017, AI solutions were still in the early stages, and we were working on object detection using phone cameras and local processing. We used OpenCV to develop algorithms that needed to be highly accurate and reliable in real-world conditions.
Testing the ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) in Pune’s traffic was both challenging and fun—it gave us great insights into the edge cases we needed to solve for. That project not only pushed us technically but also showed the real-world potential of AI to make a meaningful impact, especially in safety and efficiency.
What’s a tech trend that you think will reshape the industry in the next 5 years?
Data Analytics and AI Solutions will continue to be major drivers of change. From autonomous vehicles to smart customer experiences, their impact is already visible. But successful implementation depends on more than just the tech – it requires strong foundations in data quality, infrastructure, security, and privacy. These will be the real enablers going forward.
Which tool, software, or framework do you rely on daily and why?
Earlier, I’d spend hours on Visual Studio and other development tools. These days, it’s more about communication and productivity – Teams, Excel, and CoPilots are my daily companions to keep things moving efficiently.
What’s one innovation in digital transformation that you find particularly exciting?
One of the innovations that I find particularly exciting is the transformation in banking and payments. Managing finances from the comfort of home has become second nature now, but it represents a massive leap in user experience, convenience, and security. It’s a great example of how digital transformation can simplify life for everyone.
What do you love most about working with your team at Bridgenext?
Our ability to adapt. No matter the challenge, the team is quick to pivot, find solutions, and stay focused on outcomes. That resilience is something I truly admire.
How do you foster innovation and collaboration within your team?
It’s a mix of things:
These elements together create an environment where ideas can thrive and people feel supported.
What’s a defining moment in your career that shaped your leadership style?
There wasn’t one single moment—it’s been a gradual evolution. I’ve also learned by observing peers and mentors and how they handle different situations. Leadership, to me, is shaped by experience, maturity, and yes, a few battle scars along the way.
What’s your favorite productivity hack or habit?
I get a lot of distractions, so I don’t block long stretches of time. Instead, I follow the Pomodoro Technique—20 to 25 minutes of focused work followed by a short break. It helps me stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.
Favorite quote or motto that inspires you?
“Sky is the limit, but everybody has their own sky.” I love this because it acknowledges that while we all have the potential to achieve great things, everyone’s journey is unique. Understanding that helps us collaborate better and respect each other’s perspectives. It’s a reminder to aim high, but also stay grounded in empathy.
Venky’s journey is a powerful reminder that impactful leadership isn’t loud – it’s consistent, thoughtful, and rooted in purpose. From leveraging emerging tech to solving real-world challenges, to empowering teams and staying curious, Venky continues to shape the future of engineering at Bridgenext with quiet strength and deep insight. Stay tuned for more insights from our engineering leadership team in future editions of Meet the Team.
