Visionary Leadership
Driving innovation, excellence, and transformative education through strategic vision and industry-aligned leadership.
C. Valliappa
Chairman
Founder of The Sona Group, is a prominent industrialist in South India with diverse interests spanning textiles, construction, and information technology. He has served as President of both the Industrial and Trade Chambers, including the Greater Mysore Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce & Industry.
A pivotal figure in placing India on the global IT map, he facilitated the partnership between Texas Instruments and the Sona Valliappa Group. In recognition of his contributions, he was invited by the White House to explore U.S.-India business opportunities—a rare distinction awarded to only one Indian businessman annually.
Thyagu Valliappa
Founder & Chief Mentor
Thyagu Valliappa is a fourth-generation entrepreneur and a transformative leader known for driving innovation across diverse sectors including technology, real estate, textiles, healthcare, logistics, and education. With over four decades of entrepreneurial experience, he has mentored more than 50 startups and played a pivotal role in shaping India’s startup and industry ecosystem.
As Founder & Chief Mentor of SCALE, he brings unmatched industry insight, a global mindset, and a passion for developing future-ready leaders. His work spans building world-class infrastructure, pioneering sportainment, advancing heritage healthcare, and strengthening industry–academia partnerships.
A visionary strategist and thought leader, he continues to inspire change through innovation, sustainability, and purposeful leadership.
SCALE Leadership Team
Dr. M Venugopal
Vice President
Dr. Sheelan Misra
Dean (Marketing Strategy, IR & Industry Collaboration)
Akhil Narayan
Learning and Development Manager