How Jamadagni Kotamsetty Transformed His Leadership Approach with ISB Executive Education’s Leadership with AI
In the fast-paced world of technology and innovation, professionals constantly seek ways to sharpen their skills, stay ahead of the competition, and lead with impact. For Jamadagni Kotamsetty, a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in the semiconductor and gaming industries, the need for structured knowledge in leadership and artificial intelligence (AI) was clear. Working with global tech giants like Electronic Arts (EA), AMD, and currently Micron Technology, Kotamsetty recognised that in such a competitive environment, being innovative isn’t just a necessity—it’s the key to survival.
It was this pursuit of excellence that led him to the Leadership with AI programme from the ISB Executive Education, a course that has reshaped his approach to leading teams and spearheading projects in a world increasingly driven by AI and machine learning.
A Career Built on Innovation
Kotamsetty career has spanned several competitive industries, including gaming and semiconductors. Having worked for companies like AMD, where he shared market space with industry giants like Nvidia, and Micron Technology, where he now faces competition from tech giants such as Samsung and SK Hynix, he believes that he “thrives” in high-pressure environments.
“Innovation is the cornerstone of our industry,” he explains. “Every quarter, we come up with a dozen new ideas, but only one or two might stick. The pressure to stay relevant is immense, and that’s why I felt the need to broaden my horizons.”
With a background in computer science and a postgraduate degree in AI and machine learning, Kotamsetty already had an established foundation of technical expertise. However, he realised that technical knowledge alone wasn’t enough. He needed to understand how to lead innovation, communicate effectively with senior management, and manage large-scale projects that could make or break his company’s bottom line.
Why ISB Executive Education’s Leadership with AI?
For Kotamsetty, the Leadership with AI programme by ISB Executive Education offered the perfect blend of leadership training and cutting-edge AI knowledge. “I had worked on AI projects before, but I lacked the structured perspective to approach management with these ideas,” he recalls. “I needed to know how to create roadmaps, timelines, and budgets, and how to present these ideas at an executive level.”
The programme not only provided Kotamsetty with the skills to structure his projects but also gave him insights into effective leadership. “The leadership aspect of the course was crucial for me,” he says. “As a mid-senior level manager handling a team of seven to eight people, the ability to mentor my team while simultaneously managing new projects is essential. The programme helped me create a structured approach to innovation, from idea generation to implementation.”
Real-World Application of AI
One of the highlights of the programme for Kotamsetty was learning how to apply AI in real-world scenarios. In his role at Micron Technology, where the company competes globally in the semiconductor market, the pressure to innovate quickly is immense. “We work in an industry where even a quarter’s delay in project execution can result in the loss of hundreds of millions of dollars,” he notes. “Being the first to market with new technologies is critical.”
AI plays a pivotal role in getting the first-mover’s advantage in this fiercely competitive market by speeding up processes across the semiconductor development lifecycle—from wafer manufacturing to packaging and delivery to clients. “AI accelerates our entire production stack,” Kotamsetty explains. “By automating parts of the process and incorporating data science, we can ensure that our products reach the market faster.”
Through the Leadership with AI programme, Kotamsetty learned how to integrate AI solutions throughout Micron’s production processes. “The course gave me the tools to apply AI not just in theory but in practice. It’s about understanding the problem statement, creating a clear roadmap, and ensuring that every step aligns with our strategic goals,” he says.
The ISB Executive Education Experience: Faculty and Peer Network
1. Faculty Par Excellence
One of the standout aspects of the Leadership with AI programme for Kotamsetty was the quality of the faculty. “Dr. Lalit S Kathpalia sessions were incredibly engaging,” he recalls. “He made complex concepts fun and easy to understand, which is essential for professionals at the mid-senior level.” He also credits Dr. Nanda Kishore’s lectures, particularly the case studies on crisis management, as eye-opening. “Learning how Nestlé managed to pivot during a crisis in the Philippines was one of the most impactful lessons. Crisis management is a constant reality in big tech, and this course taught me how to navigate it effectively.”
2. A Quality Peer Network to Connect With
Beyond the faculty, the programme’s peer network was another invaluable resource for Kotamsetty. “The diversity of the cohort was incredible. I interacted with professionals from the medical field, defence, FMCG, and more. Their unique perspectives opened my mind to new ideas and approaches that I could bring back to my own work.”
3. Flexibility, Much Needed by Working Professionals to Learn
He also found the flexible nature of the course, designed for working professionals, to be a major advantage. “Balancing work and study was tough, but the structure of the programme made it manageable. There were times I had to pull all-nighters to complete assignments, but it was worth it,” he reflects. “The assignments and cohort sessions kept me motivated, and the peer network is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my career.”
Key Takeaways and Skills Gained From the Leadership With AI Programme
The Leadership with AI programme imparted several critical skills that Kotamsetty is applying in his role at Micron Technology.
1. Problem-Solving
First and foremost is the ability to clearly define and understand a problem statement. “When we’re developing a project, it’s easy to lose sight of the original problem we set out to solve,” he explains. “The course taught me to stay focused, create a structured roadmap, and ensure that we’re on track to achieve our goals.”
2. Effective Communication
In addition to problem-solving, he highlights the importance of communication. “Being able to present ideas to senior management and stakeholders in a clear, structured way is key. The course gave me the confidence to do that,” he says.
3. Leadership and Mentoring
Lastly, the programme has equipped Kotamsetty with the tools to lead teams more effectively. “Leadership isn’t just about managing people; it’s about mentoring them and fostering innovation. The course helped me become a better leader, both for my team and for my organisation.”
A Bright Future with AI
Looking ahead, Jamadagni Kotamsetty is excited to continue applying the knowledge and skills he gained from ISB Executive Education’s Leadership with AI programme. “AI is transforming every industry, and the ability to lead with AI is a game-changer. This programme has given me the tools to not only keep up with the competition but to stay ahead of it.”
For professionals considering the Leadership with AI programme, he has one piece of advice: “Start early. Whether you have seven or 17 years of experience, the sooner you equip yourself with the skills to lead in an AI-driven world, the better positioned you’ll be for the future.”
For exploring more ISB Executive Education programmes, visit Emeritus India.
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