Guardian Appoints Karunakaran Azhisur as the Country Head
Guardian India Operations Private Limited (“Guardian India”), the global capability center for The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (“Guardian”), has declared the selection of Karunakaran (Karun) Azhisur as Country Head – India. In his updated position, Azhisur will report to Michael Prestileo, Chief Strategy Officer and Chair of the Board at Guardian India.
He will also maintain his role as Chief Information Officer (CIO) for Guardian India, collaborating closely with Steve Rullo, Chief Digital & Technology Officer, to advance technology-driven transformation and operational excellence throughout the organization.
Michael Prestileo states, “Karun’s vast international background and demonstrated skill in managing intricate transformations position him as the perfect leader for Guardian India. His strategic insight and methodical implementation will be crucial as we progress our technology strategy and speed up innovation for our policyholders.
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Karunakaran Azhisur states, “The strength of Guardian India is found in its culture and people." As we progress into the subsequent stage of growth, I will concentrate on forming teams, cultivating leadership, and fostering an atmosphere where technology and talent unite to facilitate transformation."
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Azhisur possesses more than twenty years of international experience in technology and engineering leadership, having developed and expanded high-performing software, data, and platform teams in both the United States and India.
His professional journey includes high-level leadership positions in worldwide diversified companies and technology firms in Silicon Valley, with extensive knowledge in product-oriented operational frameworks, large-scale organizational change, and advanced digital platforms.
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He has recently been heading initiatives for AI-driven enterprise transformation, which encompass creating agentic AI features, updating fundamental technology systems, and expanding globally distributed product and engineering teams. His leadership style emphasizes robust product ownership, engineering and operational excellence, along with talent development as vital contributors to enduring business success.