Making difference in homeland

When Srini Kris left India at the age of 22 to pursue an engineering career in the US, he always hoped one day to return. Little did he know that running the Indian operations of URS, one of the world’s leading engineering, construction and technical services companies, would be the catalyst for his homecoming more than two decades later. His international outlook and under¡standing of both the US and Indian cultures, are a distinct advantage in serving the needs of the Indian market. As Managing Director of URS’ Indian operations, his mission is to bring the world-renowned capabilities, standards and health and safety record of a global organisation to India at a cost-effective price for the local market.

Srini is currently spearheading a major recruitment drive across URS’ India operations. The company aims to triple its headcount in India over the next three to five years, while maintaining its strong focus on quality and technical excellence. Srini’s close strong relationships with URS’ California-based headquarters enable him to forge strong links between staff in India and the US. He has driven a nationwide knowledge sharing programme, including bringing world-leading experts from the company’s US operations to India to train staff in the latest tools, techniques and global practices.

Srini worked in the US for more than 20 years in a number of senior management roles at engineering companies, including 14 years with URS in California. He has extensive experience in large public and private sector projects, including major transport infrastructure projects and multibillion dollar schemes to build and modernise hospitals, schools and universities.

Born in Bangalore and raised and educated in Ranchi, where he gained a degree from the Birla Institute of Technology, Srini has never forgotten his roots. This is why he is so excited to return to his homeland in a role where he can really make a difference. Two years on from his homecoming, he is still re-discovering India, enjoying the country’s intriguing diversity. To relax, Srini enjoys reading, listening to classic rock and Sufi music, watching cricket and playing golf.