On the ball

Behind Sundar Raman's nonchalant demeanour lurks a tough negotiator who knows every blade of grass of his pitch. "I have always said we will not rest till IPL [Indian Premier League] becomes the most recognised sporting property across the world," says Raman.

Says former colleague Vikram Sakuja, CEO, GroupM South Asia: "He has a high degree of passion… He goes after big targets and thrives on challenges."

Raman admits to having grown into a far more patient and understanding leader: "I have realised that it is all about motivating people and the challenge is not whether I can work with them, but if people can work with me…."

Sundar Raman, 37, CEO, IPL, The Champions League

• EDUCATION: Applied Science Graduate, PG in Advertising & Marketing.
• EXPERIENCE: MD, Mindshare (north & east).
• 'AHA' MOMENT: Many...Winning Hindustan Unilever business year on year; first IPL match.