EXL's Journey from Capabilities to Rapid Solutions in the Gen AI Era with Deepti Kalra

In this exclusive interview with AIM Media House, we sit down with Deepti Kalra, an AI leader with 14 years of experience in establishing and scaling AI practices including strategy, product development, and consulting. Deepti, the Vice President and Chief to the CEO currently driving data and AI-led vision for the company, previously led AI solutions for Insurance Analytics practice at EXL. She has been instrumental in developing industry-leading AI solutions and strengthening market positioning with external stakeholders. Her extensive experience spans across insurance, financial services, media, and healthcare sectors, where she has focused on solving key industry problems and leading large-scale transformation programs for Fortune 500 organizations.

Deepti shares her insights on the evolution of EXL from focusing on capabilities to becoming a solutions company, the impact of Gen AI on service demand, and the journey of building a robust data and AI practice. She discusses the pivotal role of data management, the importance of domain knowledge in AI implementations, and the strategies for talent acquisition and technology partnerships that have driven EXL's success. Deepti also highlights the leadership qualities that inspire her and the emerging trends that will shape EXL's future in the AI era.

AIM Media House: Can you describe the evolution of your company from focusing on capabilities to becoming a solutions company, and how the advent of Gen AI has influenced the demand for your services?

“We are seeing a rapid change in the demand for our services focused on engineering and faster outcomes. Clients now expect us to deliver outcomes and value in weeks, rather than months.”

Deepti Kalra: It has been a wonderful roller coaster ride for sure. Since I joined, there have been numerous experiences that I can count on. I have seen the company evolve from focusing on core capabilities to delivering comprehensive solutions. i.e. addressing specific client needs more effectively and driving greater value and building repeatable assets to deliver value to clients quickly. Now, with the advent of Gen AI, We are seeing demand for data management and engineering surge. Clients now expect us to deliver outcomes in just a few days or weeks, rather than months. This evolution is something I have witnessed firsthand, and I continue to learn every day.