Infosys Ltd., India’s second largest IT services firm, said Vishal Sikka has resigned as the CEO and MD after heightened acrimony between the board and its cohort of founders led by former chairman NR Narayana Murthy.
Narayana Murthy suggested in an email to his advisors that some independent directos had pointed out that Sikka was more of Chief Technology Officer (CTO) material than Chief Executive Officer (CEO) material. He has also publicly flogged the company over its system of corporate governance, and absence of relevant checks and balances necessary in a well run company.
Earlier, at the end of year 2016, Cyrus Mistry was ousted from the post of Chairman of Tata Group of companies. He claimed that his attempt at reforms and ethical restructuring were not received well at the Extraordinary General Meetings of the board. He hinted the interference of the founders in key decisions even years after they had resigned.
Both the cases show that, whatever may be the triggering issue, it is very important to nurture a healthy relationship between the executive heads and the founders of the company. Having led the helm since the conception, the founders continue to have a major stake in the interests of the company. While the executive heads are appointed for their experience and expertise, the vision is believed to be established by the founders.
This is especially true for start-ups and entrepreneurial ventures. Launching a business is an evolved process, and having the right team is very essential to walk on the right track. Avoiding the blame game for temporary failures and having a mindset of resolution over conflict is a necessary ingredient for a good cofounding relationship.
As Vishal Sikka battles the odds at Infosys, we can follow the moves to learn the basics of teaming with your boss for a healthy work culture.
