In a world racing against time to tackle climate change, few individuals bridge the gap between corporate leadership, technological innovation, and artistic storytelling quite like Surya Ramkumar. A Junior Partner at McKinsey & Company in Amsterdam, she has built an extraordinary career that blends strategic thinking, sustainability advocacy, and a deep commitment to human potential. But her story doesn’t stop in boardrooms—it extends into literature, where her words ignite awareness and empathy for the planet’s most pressing crisis.
Surya Ramkumar: A Multifaceted Leader with Global Vision
Armed with a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Nanyang Technological University and a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the National University of Singapore, Surya Ramkumar has spent her career navigating complex business landscapes. Her work with companies in the energy sector involves tackling organizational challenges, shaping forward-thinking strategies, and guiding leaders through the intricacies of the global energy transition.
What sets her apart is her systems thinking approach—viewing challenges not as isolated problems, but as interconnected opportunities. For Surya, the energy transition is not merely a technological shift; it’s a human imperative, demanding sustainable and equitable solutions that honor both people and the planet.
Philosophy of Leadership – Where Structure Meets Freedom
Surya’s leadership philosophy is built on the belief that great leaders create contexts where others can thrive. She sees herself as a bridge between worlds—technology and humanity, ambition and moderation, structure and creativity.
“Innovation matters most when it amplifies meaning, agency, and creativity,” she says, emphasizing that technology must remain human-centered, ethical, and grounded in lived human needs. This ethos drives not only her corporate strategies but also her storytelling, where she weaves narratives that inspire action and reflection.
Surya Ramkumar: The Author’s Voice – Storytelling for Climate Action
Surya Ramkumar’s impact stretches far beyond corporate corridors. In 2023, she made waves in the literary world with her debut climate fiction novel, The Sky Has Moved Away. Published by Dubai-based The Dreamwork Collective, the book debuted at #1 in its category on Amazon pre-orders and was unveiled during COP28 in Dubai—a symbolic moment for a story that confronts the human dimensions of climate change.
Set in Nigeria during a catastrophic heatwave, the novel offers a hauntingly realistic vision of a climate event that was fictional in 2009 but has since mirrored the unfolding reality. Through themes of love, motherhood, and accountability, Surya invites readers to see Earth as a mother—deserving of respect, care, and protection.
“Most climate fiction focuses on dystopian futures,” she notes, “but my book explores a contained, yet devastating event—reminding us that the climate crisis is not just about the future, it is about the now.”
Championing the Power of Literature
As a pioneer in the Middle East’s emerging cli-fi (climate fiction) genre, Surya believes stories can be one of the most powerful tools for climate awareness. Her work aligns with a growing movement of writers, from Richard Powers to Ben Okri, who see literature as a call to action.
Her writing process is meticulous—beginning with a theme or character, evolving into carefully planned narrative arcs, and crafted with a deliberate tone and mood. Whether she’s writing essays like Silent Eloquence, her business guide Strategy for Life, or her acclaimed debut novel, she blends intellect with emotional resonance, making complex issues accessible and relatable.
A Career of Impact and Influence
With more than 24 years of experience in the technology sector, including leadership roles at Microsoft and McKinsey, Surya is also a seasoned entrepreneur. She has co-founded businesses, advised startups, and served on multiple boards across EMEA. Her cross-industry expertise allows her to see patterns others miss, enabling her to craft solutions that balance innovation with responsibility.
Her long list of honors—including the prestigious Singapore Airlines–Neptune Orient Lines Scholarship and the Singapore Airlines Youth Scholarship—reflect her lifelong commitment to excellence and continuous learning.
Also Read : Anuj Jain: A Visionary in Wildlife Protection