CTO
Mattel
Saranathan (Sara) Govindarajan is a visionary tech executive and the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Mattel, Inc. Known for his leadership mantra “No Guts No Story,” Sara embodies an innovative approach to technology transformation.
At Mattel, Sara drives the company’s technology strategy, crafting a value-focused enterprise roadmap across all domains and departments each year. He is known for his clear communication on trade-offs and articulating the end-state vision, fostering a culture of transparency and strategic foresight. Recognized as a pragmatic leader, he inspires and leads customer-centric, global, and multicultural technology organizations, consistently enhancing operational excellence.
With over two decades of experience, Sara has made significant contributions at Mattel, AT&T, and DIRECTV, leading major integration and technology strategy initiatives. His expertise in driving growth and operational excellence across various sectors has established him as a leader in the field.
Sara holds advanced degrees in Software Systems and Science and Technology Development from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani. His commitment to lifelong learning is further demonstrated by executive certifications from Wharton Executive Education, where he honed his skills in leadership, technology management, and business impact.
Beyond his professional achievements, Sara is dedicated to community service, particularly in supporting outdoor and leadership activities for youth through scouting and high school programs. His blend of strategic innovation, leadership, and community involvement marks him as a distinguished figure in the technology landscape.