Born with a natural curiosity for systems and problem-solving, Raju Venkatraman pursued Chemical Engineering at IIT Madras, graduating in 1981. His years at IIT were formative, instilling in him analytical rigor, discipline, and a deep respect for technology-driven innovation.
Determined to complement technical depth with strategic leadership, he later completed an Executive MBA from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, including a rigorous three-tier leadership development program. He also earned a Diploma in Quality Education Systems from the General Motors Institute, USA, sharpening his understanding of operational excellence and process optimization.
This rare blend of engineering precision and managerial insight would later become the foundation of his entrepreneurial success.
Early Career of Raju Venkatraman: Leadership Through Innovation at Global Corporations
Raju Venkatraman began his professional journey with Cadbury–Schweppes, gaining early exposure to structured corporate systems. His career soon took a transformative turn at Electronic Data Systems (EDS) in the United States.
At EDS, Raju Venkatraman emerged as a trailblazer. He spearheaded early applications outsourcing initiatives, now widely recognized as Business Process Outsourcing. His work spanned healthcare, manufacturing, and federal government sectors, where he led innovations in:
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Digital imaging technology
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Raster image scanning and compression techniques
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Optical disk storage systems
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Early Ethernet-based data communication
These contributions positioned him as a thought leader well ahead of his time, capable of seeing opportunity where others saw complexity.
Pioneering the BPO Revolution: Bringing Work to India
In 1991, Raju Venkatraman made a bold decision that would redefine India’s outsourcing landscape. Leaving behind a successful corporate career, he founded Vetri Systems, becoming one of the earliest pioneers to bring outsourcing work to India rather than executing it solely in the United States.
Under his leadership, Vetri Systems scaled rapidly to nearly 4,000 employees, adopting satellite-based data transmission long before modern connectivity became mainstream. In 1998, the company was acquired by Lason Inc., USA, marking one of the early success stories of Indian offshore outsourcing.
As President, Data Management Services at Lason, Raju Venkatraman managed operations exceeding 7,500 employees globally, demonstrating his ability to lead at scale across geographies.
Raju Venkatraman: Serial Entrepreneurship – Sherpa, Rev IT, and Firstsource Solutions
Never one to remain static, Raju Venkatraman launched Sherpa Business Solutions and Rev IT in 2002. These ventures reinforced his reputation as a builder of high-performance outsourcing organizations.
In 2005, both companies were acquired by ICICI OneSource, later renamed Firstsource Solutions Limited (FSL). Raju Venkatraman became Joint Managing Director, playing a pivotal role in expanding the organization to 23,000 employees and strengthening its global footprint.
His tenure at Firstsource cemented his standing as a master strategist in scaling people-intensive businesses with robust governance.
The Medall Vision: Transforming Healthcare Diagnostics in India
In 2009, Raju Venkatraman embarked on a mission driven not just by business opportunity, but by purpose. He founded Medall Healthcare Private Limited with a bold vision: to serve over six million people by making high-quality diagnostics, wellness, and preventive care accessible across India.
Unlike conventional healthcare models focused on metropolitan centers, Raju Venkatraman deliberately positioned Medall to serve tier-2 and tier-3 cities, bringing advanced diagnostics to underserved communities.
Medall Healthcare Today
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Presence across South India, including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Maharashtra
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Ownership of trusted brands such as Precision Diagnostics (Chennai) and Clumax Diagnostics (Bengaluru)
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Workforce of over 550 employees, including 55 specialized radiologists
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Successful public–private partnerships, including radiology and imaging services for government hospitals
Medall’s healthcare model reflects Raju Venkatraman’s belief that technology, when combined with empathy and access, can become a powerful equalizer.
Leadership Beyond Business: Boards, Mentorship, and Social Impact
Raju Venkatraman’s influence extends far beyond the companies he has built. He serves on the boards of respected institutions, including:
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American International School, Chennai
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Polaris Software
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Prodapt Business Solutions
He is a long-standing member of Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) and a founding member of the World Presidents’ Organization (WPO) Chennai Chapter. His leadership roles include Chairman of TiECON Chennai and Senior Vice President of the Madras Management Association (MMA).
A passionate mentor, Raju Venkatraman actively supports young entrepreneurs, believing that shared wisdom accelerates collective growth.
Awards, Recognition, and Global Acknowledgment
Over the decades, Raju Venkatraman has received numerous prestigious honors, including:
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Indian Entrepreneur of the Year (2000)
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IIT Madras Distinguished Alumnus Award
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Innovative Entrepreneur of the Decade
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AIIM Excellence Award
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Recognition among the Top 50 Entrepreneurs in Michigan (1994 & 1995)
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“American Dreamers” Award from Crain’s Business Magazine