Persistent Systems Appoints Hari S. Abhyankar as Executive Vice President and Global Head
Persistent Systems has appointed Hari S. Abhyankar as Executive Vice President and Global Head of Private Equity and Professional Services, effective March 19, 2026. With over 25 years of experience and a PhD from MIT, Hari previously served as Partner at McKinsey & Company and will lead Persistent's strategy to accelerate AI-driven transformation for private equity firms and their portfolio companies.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Persistent Systems Limited has announced the appointment of Hari S. Abhyankar as Executive Vice President and Global Head of Private Equity and Professional Services, effective March 19, 2026. The appointment was formally disclosed through a press release dated March 20, 2026, and communicated to both the National Stock Exchange of India Limited and BSE Limited under regulatory compliance requirements.
Strategic Focus on Private Equity Transformation
The appointment strengthens Persistent's focus on AI-led transformation for private equity firms and their portfolio companies. As private equity firms compress value-creation cycles and emphasize AI-driven transformation, the demand for execution partners capable of delivering rapid results is increasing. Persistent is scaling its capabilities in this segment by combining engineering-led expertise, AI capabilities, and platform-driven approaches to support investors from diligence through value realization.
| Parameter: | Details |
|---|---|
| Position: | Executive Vice President and Global Head |
| Business Area: | Private Equity and Professional Services |
| Effective Date: | March 19, 2026 |
| Experience: | Over 25 years in strategy, technology, and business transformation |
| Previous Role: | Partner at McKinsey & Company |
Leadership Experience and Background
Hari brings over 25 years of experience at the intersection of strategy, technology, and business transformation. He previously served as a Partner at McKinsey & Company, where he advised leading technology companies and global enterprises on corporate strategy, large-scale transformation, and revenue acceleration initiatives. Following his McKinsey tenure, he worked with AI-native startups, focusing on scaling technology-led innovation and next-generation operating models.
Professional Credentials
- Consulting Expertise: Over 11 years in C-suite consulting
- Operational Leadership: More than 14 years as an operator with P&L responsibility
- Academic Background: PhD in Operations Management from MIT Sloan School of Management
- Industry Experience: Senior leadership roles at Interpublic Group and Digitas
- Specialization: Analytics, digital strategy, and data-driven marketing organizations
Strategic Vision and Market Positioning
In his new role, Hari will lead Persistent's global strategy and growth across private equity investors, their portfolio companies, and professional services organizations. He will focus on accelerating revenue growth, enabling platform modernization, and driving faster realization of transformation priorities across portfolios while expanding EBITDA through improved operational efficiency and value creation.
According to CEO Sandeep Kalra, private equity represents a strategic growth engine for Persistent. The company's engineering depth, AI-led platforms, and execution discipline position it to deliver results from accelerating growth to improving operating margins and enabling exit readiness. Hari's appointment strengthens the company's ability to deepen engagement with private equity firms and drive sustained performance across their portfolios.
Historical Stock Returns for Persistent Systems
| 1 Day | 5 Days | 1 Month | 6 Months | 1 Year | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| -0.10% | +8.37% | +5.29% | -5.45% | -9.46% | +418.25% |






























