Ela Krishnan profile photo

Ela Krishnan

Vice President of Software Development at Dell Technologies

Executive LeadershipSaaS PlatformsCloud ComputingDigital TransformationInnovation ManagementM&A Integration
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About

I am Ela Krishnan, currently serving as the Vice President of Software Development at Dell Technologies. My career has been defined by a journey from hands-on engineering management to executive leadership, where I have focused on scaling large-scale software organizations and driving global market leadership in cloud clients. I am deeply passionate about fostering a culture of innovation—moving beyond simple execution to true excellence—and I have a particular interest in bridging the gap between industry and academia to mentor the next generation of engineers. Beyond the corporate sphere, I am committed to leveraging technology for social impact, specifically through supporting rural students and exploring innovations that can uplift agricultural communities. I look forward to connecting with those who share a vision for digital transformation and meaningful community advancement.

Networking

What I can offer

  • ›Strategic organizational building and M&A integration expertise
  • ›Mentorship for engineering students and bright young minds
  • ›Guidance on establishing Centers of Excellence and patent programs

Looking for

  • ›expanding my professional network
  • ›exploring mutual opportunities in software development and academic collaboration

Best fit for

University management and academic leadersEngineering students and emerging talentStrategic technology partners and vendors

Current Interests

Industry-Academia CollaborationAI/ML-based Data IntelligenceAgricultural Startup InnovationRural Student Advancement (STARS)

Background

Career

Progressed from Software Engineering Manager at VXL Instruments to Director at Wyse Technology, followed by a decade-long rise through leadership at Dell Technologies from Director to Vice President.

Education

Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Computer Science, Vellore Institute of Technology (1993 – 1997)

Achievements

  • ›Scaled Dell CPG software organization from 160 to 450+ engineers in two years
  • ›Seeded programs resulting in 600+ US Authorized patents
  • ›Led teams to #1 worldwide market share in cloud clients
  • ›Managed 12M unit installed base during Wyse-Dell integration

Opinions

  • Transform organizations from 'Centers of Execution' to 'Centers of Excellence' through innovation culture
  • Businesses should offload IT infrastructure management to focus on core expertise
  • Women leaders build stronger teams by leaning into resilience and authenticity
  • Technology must be leveraged to uplift rural communities