In the July-August 2016 issue of adobo magazine, we get to know Ranganathan Somanathan, Head, Digital Leadership, SE Asia at Starcom MediaVest Group.
Describe your role in Starcom and Mediavest?
Over the years, I have worn multiple hats. The role however has remained the same, that of a Sweeper in a game called Curling. It’s a game which seems to have origins in Scotland, became popular upon introduction in Olympics in 1988. The Sweeper’s job is to clear the surface of ice so that the striker doesn’t curl much and travels farthest. In any leadership role, the role is to clear the interferences that your people face at work so that they perform to their potential. My role is to clear those interferences. See the video of Curling to see what I mean.
Which of the changes in media/communications are you most excited about?
The amazing thing about our industry is not the change per se but the pace of change. The people dictate the speed at which change happens and the direction it takes. This velocity is the adrenaline to me, to be able to ride the wave as it forms versus catch up on a wave that has already formed.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Pleasure, per se is divine, so why feel guilty? I enjoy riding (bike), running and heading to a spa once in a while. My only wish — more frequent spa visits.
What talent do you most want to have?
Many, actually. I would have loved to be able to sing, so I can sing along with my colleagues when I am in Manila and to be able to play guitar and drums, so that I can jam with my kids, and be able to swim, so that I can participate in a triathlon and on goes the list.
What’s something about you that most people don’t know?
That I am naturally an introvert and have to psyche myself in a social setting to interact with people, especially in business settings. I’m happy to be left to myself and my indulgences.
