Kiran Kumar Chitrada is a distinguished leader in ServiceNow platform architecture and IT operations. As a ServiceNow Architect at Ernst & Young, he blends military discipline with technical expertise to drive digital transformation. His contributions span defense, healthcare, and finance, positioning him as a key influencer in advancing enterprise IT solutions and achieving operational excellence.
Early Life and Academic Foundation
Kiran’s foundation is rooted in a diverse and rigorous academic journey. He holds a Master’s in Computer Applications from Andhra University, where he earned a Gold Medal, and a specialization in information technology management and analytics from the Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode. He also completed a BSc in Aeronautics (Avionics) from Cochin University of Science & Technology and a Diploma in Electronics Engineering from the Naval Institute of Aeronautical Technology.
This strong academic grounding equipped him with a multidimensional understanding of technology from hardware systems to enterprise software which has been instrumental in his career. His education, combined with his military training, fostered analytical thinking, precision, and leadership traits that would later define his professional style.
Professional Journey
Kiran’s career began with two decades of distinguished service in the Indian Navy, where he worked on avionics, logistics, and IT systems. As Section-in-Charge of IT & Avionics for INAS 336, he led the integration of advanced tracking systems into onboard aircraft, enhancing surveillance and operational efficiency. These experiences laid a technical and managerial foundation that seamlessly translated into his corporate career.
His transition to the private sector saw him rise rapidly through roles of increasing responsibility at Intercontinental Exchange, INRY, and Vista Equity Partners LLC. Whether managing complex ServiceNow implementations or guiding enterprises through digital transformation, Kiran consistently demonstrated his knack for aligning IT solutions with strategic business goals. His work spans critical projects in healthcare, aviation, and asset management, always with a focus on real-time efficiency, risk management, and data integrity.
Leadership and Innovation
As a leader, Kiran is known for his inclusive and empowering style. He believes in enabling teams through mentorship, knowledge sharing, and autonomy. At Vista Equity Partners, he not only oversaw platform architecture but also drove collaborative roadmaps that align with C-suite strategies. He leads cross-functional teams that include developers, project managers, analysts, and change managers—all unified under his vision for seamless user experience and strategic IT transformation.
His leadership is not just operational but visionary. At Vista, he spearheaded the integration of AI capabilities (Now Assist) into the ServiceNow platform, paving the way for more intelligent automation and predictive analytics. His efforts in centralizing application portfolios and implementing data governance policies have laid the groundwork for enterprise-wide compliance and agility.
Notable Achievements
Among his many accomplishments, a few stand out. While at INRY, Kiran led the implementation of the ServiceNow ITOM suite across multiple clients, from mapping clinical applications for Franciscan Airport to improving infrastructure visibility for major airport commissions. His work helped organizations reduce incident response times and optimize IT service delivery.
Notably, during his naval career, he successfully managed the modernization of the UH-3H helicopter fleet, coordinating international stakeholders and extending operational lifespans through advanced avionics integration. This project remains a hallmark of how he blends technology with mission-critical objectives.
Academic Contributions
Though his career has primarily been industry-focused, Kiran maintains a strong link to academic development. He has conducted training workshops, authored technical documentation, and served as a mentor in the implementation of complex data models like CSDM. His certifications ranging from PMP and CSM to multiple ServiceNow specializations demonstrate his commitment to lifelong learning and to bridging theoretical models with practical applications.
Future Vision and Impact
Kiran continues to be a forward-thinker in the domain of IT service management and enterprise architecture. His current focus includes leveraging AI and automation to transform IT operations and enhance user experience. As enterprises move toward digital-first strategies, leaders like Kiran will be essential in shaping adaptive, intelligent systems that can meet the demands of a fast-evolving digital landscape.
In sum, Kiran Kumar Chitrada embodies the rare intersection of technical mastery, military-honed leadership, and visionary innovation. His journey from the decks of naval aircraft to the boardrooms of tech-driven enterprises is a compelling narrative of transformation, resilience, and enduring impact.
