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Mr C P Gurnani, Chief Executive Officer designate of Mahindra Satyam-Tech Mahindra, is among the core team that has been deputed by the Mahindras to set the Satyam house in order. Steering the trouble-hit firm out of the woods, he is now busy with the integration of the two firms. eWorld caught up with him and here are the excerpts:
eW: How has the process been progressing?
CP: It is working exactly as per the plan. We have received statutory permissions from shareholders, BSE and NSE, and the Competition Commission of India. We are awaiting the go-ahead from the two High Courts (Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh) and two AGMs. The AGMs will meet in June.
eW: How has the response been from investors, staff and customers?
CP: They are excited. The whole company is ignited. They (employees) are feeling the power and purpose. Levels of excitement and energy seem to be that of a start-up albeit with a staff strength of 75,000 and combined (projected) revenues of $3 billion.
eW: What are the challenges you face?
CP: Every merger comes with people protecting their own turfs. It is not about protecting one's prerogatives. We have selected about 150 key leaders to whom we will explain the plans and will make them prepare a three-year vision (up to 2015) for the combined entity.
eW: Are there any heartburns, concerns?
CP: This is like a genie out of the bag. I recognise there is a challenge here. Any change is like an iceberg that is melting, I'm conscious of that. If they (top leaders) are convinced, they will send the message across. The challenge is to get them aligned with corporate goals.
eW: Will you continue acquisitions or wait till the merger is consummated?
CP: Our (Satyam) business plans will continue as per plan. We will continue to grow organically and inorganically.
eW: A while ago you had announced a pact with the SBI Group of Japan to invest in start-ups. Have you invested in any post the announcement?
CP: We are in the process of formalising the structure. It will be completed in 1-2 months. Meanwhile, we have started looking at a few opportunities.
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