Deepak Upadhyaya
Partner, Digital Technology
Baker Tilly International
Deepak Upadhyaya leads the Digital Technology and Risk practice for Baker Tilly Canada, and is the chairperson for our Global Digital Executive Committee. He has an exceptional record in successful execution of digital transformation initiatives for clients across various industries.
Some key projects include designing an AI-based inventory system for a large retailer, fraud detection using AI for financial services, transforming customer experience through interactive technology for a hotel chain, and blockchain-based asset tracking for a leading auction house.
Prior to joining Baker Tilly, Deepak held progressive leadership roles with large and mid-market consulting firms and was the chief information officer managing a large IT department.
Deepak is a sought-after speaker having presented at events for Gartner, Chartered Professional Accounts (CPA), Investment Funds Institute of Canada and the Conference board. He is an active advisor to a number of start-ups at the MaRs innovation center, and serves on a not-for-profit board.
A fun fact about Deepak, he played golf at a course in Kenya that had Zebra, Giraffe and other wild game (fortunately no lions ...).
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Give us a brief overview of the path that led to your current role.
I have consistently demonstrated a strong passion for technology throughout my career. Building on a solid academic background in computer science, I began my professional journey as a coder. Over time, I progressed through various roles, ultimately serving as the Chief Information Officer for a large and complex IT department. I have continually welcomed opportunities to enhance both my technical expertise and managerial skills. My enthusiasm for problem-solving and assisting others in overcoming challenges has naturally led me to leadership positions, directing teams across diverse industries to leverage technology in addressing real-world business needs.
What is one of your guiding leadership principles?
Always be curious.
What is the greatest challenge CIOs face today, and how are you addressing it?
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is significantly accelerating innovation and driving transformative change across all aspects of work and daily life.
Leverage the opportunities presented by AI, and prepare for substantial shifts, ranging from optimizing fundamental processes to reshaping entire departments and functions.
What is the key to success for someone just starting out as a CIO?
Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.
How do you measure success as a leader?
A successful leader is one that creates more leaders then followers.
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