Mahesh Sivakumar is an accomplished global business leader with over 20 years of experience in business transformation, strategic initiatives, and program management across diverse industries such as manufacturing, financial services, and operations. Known for his strong bias for action and a proven track record of driving business results, Mahesh specializes in framing and executing business transformation programs that maximize customer, shareholder, and business value.
Currently serving as the Senior Product Program Manager of Strategy and Business Transformation at John Deere Financial Services Inc, Mahesh provides leadership for large-scale global transformation programs. His responsibilities include developing roadmaps, coordinating contractual obligations, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring alignment across resources and funding. His strategic leadership has delivered significant value by leading industry benchmarking, consulting engagements, and regulatory approval plans.
Throughout his 15-year tenure at John Deere, Mahesh has held key roles including Program Manager for Cost Management & Control and Product Program Manager for New Product Development. In these roles, he successfully managed a $100 million R&D budget, implemented a target costing framework, and achieved a 12% margin improvement, among other financial gains. Mahesh has also led strategic sourcing initiatives, saving over $150 million in potential business disruption and generating $3 million in annual cost savings.
His expertise in financial modeling, product development, and supply chain management is further demonstrated through his work on international supply chains, where he oversaw more than 100 suppliers across Europe, Asia, and North America. As a Supplier Quality Engineer, Mahesh led Six Sigma projects that reduced claims by 31% and supplier scrap rates by 50%, mitigating millions in potential costs.
Mahesh holds an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, where he developed a strong foundation in corporate finance, strategy, and operations management. He also earned a Master’s degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering from the University of Illinois Chicago and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Madras. His education has provided him with a holistic understanding of engineering principles and business acumen that underpin his success in driving business transformations.
Certified as a Six Sigma Black Belt and Certified Quality Engineer by ASQ, Mahesh is well-versed in Lean Manufacturing, process improvement, and strategic planning. His leadership style is collaborative and inclusive, often employing his skills in coaching and mentoring to foster talent development within his teams.
In addition to his professional work, Mahesh is an active volunteer with Junior Achievement USA and the Boy Scouts of America, where he mentors and educates youth in areas of engineering and quality fundamentals. He also serves on the Advisory Committee for the Supply Chain Resource Cooperative at NC State University’s Poole College of Management, where he contributes his expertise to advance supply chain knowledge and practices.
Mahesh’s passion for continuous improvement, quality management, and leadership extends beyond his career, as he actively participates in obstacle course racing and fitness challenges. His commitment to integrity and ethical leadership is reflected in his consistent efforts to drive change, improve operational efficiencies, and contribute to the success of organizations across the globe.
Character:
Mahesh exemplifies integrity, resilience, and a strong work ethic in every aspect of his career. He is a servant leader who fosters collaboration and inspires teams to achieve high performance through trust and ethical leadership.
Knowledge:
With a robust background in business transformation, finance, engineering, and supply chain management, Mahesh brings a wealth of expertise to every project. His certifications in Six Sigma and quality engineering complement his deep understanding of operational excellence and strategic planning.
Strategic:
Mahesh excels at framing complex business challenges and turning them into actionable strategies that drive measurable results. His experience leading global programs and initiatives demonstrates his ability to align resources, manage risks, and deliver long-term value across diverse industries.
Communication:
A skilled communicator, Mahesh effectively bridges gaps between cross-functional teams, senior leadership, and external stakeholders. His ability to articulate clear objectives and facilitate collaboration ensures seamless execution of business initiatives and fosters alignment at all levels.
