Balamurugan, fondly known as Bala, hails from Keezha Eral village in Thoothukudi district. Born in 1981, he grew up in Puliyanthope, a bustling neighborhood in North Chennai. His early years were marked by challenges—his parents, with limited education, relocated to Chennai for better opportunities.
Education was not Bala’s strong suit initially, but a turning point came when a teacher, impressed by his father’s values, referred him to a better school. This gesture was his first opportunity to realize the transformative power of education. Determined not to waste his second chance, he pursued a B.Com degree, studied Tally to explore accounting, and eventually delved into software programming at NIIT, despite financial constraints. It was here that Bala’s curiosity about how software was created ignited his interest in technology, laying the foundation for a remarkable career.
Bala’s career began at CAMS (Computer Age Management Services) under unforeseen circumstances—his mother’s untimely passing in 2003 compelled him to take up a job. With no expectations, he approached his role with dedication. His first task involved stamping envelopes, but his efficiency (stamping 200 instead of 100) caught the attention of his process manager, Ragavan. Recognizing Bala’s potential, Ragavan introduced him to new opportunities, including mutual funds, a stepping stone to his growth.
Bala’s mother instilled in him the value of doing every job to the best of his ability. This principle, combined with his dedication, helped him stand out. His knack for innovation was evident when he automated a time-consuming process for IndusInd Bank using macros, significantly enhancing efficiency and earning widespread recognition.
The Doyensys Chapter
Bala joined Doyensys in 2019 as a Project Manager, impressed by the company’s people-first approach and the empathy of its leadership, especially Somu Chokalingam. Somu’s advice to prioritize health over long hours resonated deeply with him.
At Doyensys, Bala transitioned into roles requiring strong people management skills. Guided by senior leaders, he honed these abilities and embraced the company’s collaborative culture. He often cites the long tenure of Doyensys employees as a testament to its nurturing environment, which he found inspiring.
Bala’s technical expertise and innovative thinking have left a lasting mark. One standout achievement was leading his team at Tanishq to develop a complex core engine for matching gemstones to jewellery designs. Despite initial hurdles, Bala’s guidance enabled the team to approach the task with confidence, earning praise from the client and enhancing team morale.
Beyond technical contributions, Bala takes pride in building strong team bonds. His commitment to staying with colleagues during tough times reflects Doyensys’ people-first philosophy. Under his leadership, team members have grown not just as professionals but as individuals who believe in collaboration and mutual respect.
Bala’s journey offers valuable insights for aspiring professionals:
- Seize Every Opportunity: Even small tasks, when done with dedication, can lead to transformative opportunities.
- Lifelong Learning: Bala’s decision to learn software programming despite financial hardships demonstrates the power of investing in self-growth.
- Teamwork and Empathy: Success isn’t just about individual achievements; it’s about lifting others and growing together.
- Innovate and Add Value: Find ways to make processes better, no matter how small the task. Bala’s automation initiative is a prime example.
Balamurugan’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, humility, and a values-driven approach to work. For newcomers at Doyensys, his journey serves as a guiding light: embrace opportunities, build strong relationships, and always aim to add value. In Bala’s words, “Success is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about growing with people and making an impact along the way.
