Indian-American telecom pioneer Sam Pitroda recently unveiled the autobiography of Javad K. Hassan, a celebrated Indian-American tech innovator, at an event held in Washington, DC. The book, titled “The Art of The Possible: A Maverick’s Journey to Success, Innovation, and Fearless Leadership,” traces Hassan’s journey from his beginnings in Kerala, India, to his ascent as a global business leader.
In his memoir, Hassan reflects on his career marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and leadership. The narrative explores his bold approach to overcoming conventional barriers and offers insights into his personal philosophy of success. Through his experiences at some of the world’s leading technology companies, Hassan illustrates his fearless leadership style.
Hassan, who held senior executive roles at IBM and served as president of Global Inter Connect Systems at AMP Inc. (now TE Connectivity), currently chairs the NeST Group, a conglomerate based in McLean, VA. His career began in 1966 when he moved to the United States to study material engineering at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut. After earning his degree, he embarked on a career at IBM’s East Fishkill campus in New York.
Over the following 25 years, Hassan climbed the ranks at IBM before joining AMP in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. There, his unconventional strategies and leadership led to groundbreaking innovations and pivotal mergers that transformed the company’s trajectory. Following his time at AMP, Hassan founded the NeST Group in Kochi, Kerala, where he expanded the conglomerate through acquisitions in sectors such as fibre optics, software, healthcare IT, and digital media.
Sam Pitroda, known for his role in modernising India’s telecommunications sector, praised Hassan’s journey as emblematic of broader national and personal triumphs. He noted that Hassan’s story reflects the impact of individuals from modest beginnings who contribute significantly to global advancements and support their home countries.
Born on October 7, 1940, in Aluva, Kerala, Hassan is the eldest of five children of M.M. Khadijoo and Assanu Nagoor Rawther. His maternal grandfather, Mackar Pillay, was a notable businessman and a member of the Sree Moolam Praja Sabha. Hassan completed his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the College of Engineering, Trivandrum, in 1962 before moving to the United States.
Hassan’s autobiography delves into key themes of his career, including his commitment to challenging established norms and implementing innovative strategies. The book also explores his methods for building and inspiring high-performance teams, achieving operational excellence, and maintaining integrity. Additionally, Hassan reflects on his personal philosophy and approach to leadership, providing readers with valuable lessons in both innovation and ethical leadership.
The autobiography, co-written and edited by London-based Sanjeev Loomba, not only chronicles Hassan’s professional achievements but also serves as a guide for aspiring leaders. The book emphasises the importance of pushing boundaries and leading with courage in today’s business world.
Hassan, who lives in McLean, VA, with his wife Sabiha, is featured in the Desimax documentary series “The American Journey.” He has two daughters, Hafiza Khan, a cardiac electrophysiologist in Plano, TX, and Naureen Hassan, President of UBS Americas.
