Revathi Advaithi, the CEO of Flex, is a testament to the power of Indian talent on the global stage. Her journey to the top is an inspiring story of dedication, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Advaithi, a fervent advocate for women in STEM and the workplace, has carved a remarkable path in the business world.
Before joining Flex in 2019, Advaithi held senior positions at industry giants Eaton and Honeywell, demonstrating her ability to navigate complex organizational structures and drive impactful change. Her early career was shaped by a solid foundation in engineering. Advaithi earned a mechanical engineering degree from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, and followed it up with an MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in 2005. Her journey began at Eaton in Shawnee, Oklahoma, where she started as a shop floor supervisor. This hands-on experience provided invaluable insights into the realities of manufacturing and operational efficiency.
Advaithi’s dedication and leadership qualities shone brightly at Honeywell, where she spent six years in various production and logistics roles, honing her skills and expanding her understanding of the industry. Her commitment to continuous learning and improvement eventually led her back to Eaton in 2008, where she spent the next ten years excelling in managerial positions across diverse departments within the electrical business unit. Her exceptional performance earned her a promotion to Eaton’s COO, further solidifying her reputation as a strategic leader with a deep understanding of the industry’s intricacies.
In February 2019, Advaithi’s passion for innovation and her desire to shape the future of technology, manufacturing, and distribution led her to accept the CEO position at Flex. Under her leadership, Flex has undergone a significant transformation, shifting from a traditional contract manufacturing model to a comprehensive end-to-end client value chain ownership approach. This strategic shift has positioned Flex as a leader in the evolving landscape of global manufacturing.
Advaithi’s leadership style is marked by a potent blend of empathy and decisiveness. She understands the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, emphasizing the values of sustainability and responsible business practices. These principles are deeply ingrained in her corporate strategy, reflecting her commitment to creating a positive impact beyond the bottom line.
Advaithi’s unwavering dedication to her work has earned her significant recognition. In 2022, she was included in Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in Business list, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the global business community. Her annual compensation of $15,979,041, or over Rs 131 crore, according to Flex’s Annual Report for 2022, underscores the value she brings to the company.
Revathi Advaithi’s story is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring leaders across the globe. It is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As she continues to lead Flex into new frontiers, her commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability promises to shape a brighter future for the company and the industry as a whole.
