A horology aficionado, Shumit Gupta loves the intricate workmanship of classic, analogue watches, favouring them over contemporary watches made with current technology. As the Enterprise Architect for the Transport Client Service Unit, Shumit has similarly developed an eye to look beyond the complexities of his clients’ systems. This allows him to propose solutions for improving efficiency and possible areas of transformation.
Holistic overview of client’s business
When Shumit begins to put together a solution for a client, he always “begins with having a deep understanding of the client’s overall system as well as the key drivers which would underpin any transformative journeys they embark on”. Having a macro and micro understanding of the client's IT environment has helped him bridge relationships with clients and technical teams. As NCS’ Enterprise Architect, in the Transport Client Services Unit, Shumit also works with teams from other lines of business to develop point solutions. As the world embraces 5G and other emerging technologies, Shumit is keen to focus on re-imagining a data and insight-driven intelligent transportation system for Singapore, where the Internet of Things and other future technologies such as machine learning, AI, & extended reality intersect at scale to bring about a much higher degree of automation, insight and safety.
Setting sights on the future
Right now, Shumit’s ambition is to crystallise NCS's new identity and capabilities in new digital areas. To do so, he intends to educate and share with clients on the solutions that can propel them forward on their digital transformation journey. His hope is that the market will recognise that NCS is a collaborative partner who can journey with them and provide consultative services, partnering them on their digitalisation efforts. He aspires for NCS to be “a thought leader and trusted by its partners.”
Mentorship from Within
Shumit has mentored large teams, across his career spanning more than 20 years’ of IT delivery experience. He believes in the effective development opportunities mentoring creates. However, when it comes to mentorship, he opines that a one-to-one mentorship may not necessarily succeed. To Shumit, mentorship starts from “the individual, understanding some of the best characteristics of different leaders and leadership styles, and aspiring towards adopting such characteristics so that they can learn and grow professionally” Additionally, Shumit advises those who work in high-pressure environments to mentally recalibrate themselves and rejuvenate once from time to time, to keep themselves motivated.” Outside of his professional commitments at work, Shumit serves in Tech Talent Assembly (TTAB), a NTUC-affiliated national body that serves as a platform to nurture ICT talent in Singapore through learning, sharing and future-ready skills.
Appreciating The Intricacies Of Film And Watchmaking
Much like his architectural work which involves building solutions that address clients’ needs, Shumit appreciates films which can delight audiences intellectually. His favourite genre of movie is classic Hitchcockian-style suspense and horror, where he appreciates the attention to creating a suspenseful and psychological plot.