MEET THE MAESTRO INTERVIEW

CHIRAG: AI & Human Centred Innovation Strategy

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At Maestro, we know there’s more to life than work. In our “Meet the Maestro” series, we peek beyond the CV to discover what makes our Maestros tick.

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Chirag is  a fractional leader and consultant, helping organizations, startups, and education institutions reimagine their business models, operations and learning ecosystems to stay relevant and future-ready. He specialises in strategies that integrate AI and human-centred innovation - combining data-driven intelligence with real-world empathy to help businesses improve efficiency, unlock new opportunities and deliver meaningful value. Chirag’s real superpower is making complexity feel manageable. He has a knack for connecting long-term vision with short-term action; helping leaders turn uncertainty into clear, confident decisions. Over the years, he has supported 100+ startups and SMEs, designed learning programs adopted by 20,000+ learners, and led innovation initiatives across education and business sectors. We’re thrilled to have Chirag on board as a Maestro.

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1. Tell us about a career highlight to date…

A defining highlight was being awarded “Entrepreneurship & Innovation Coach of the Year” three times in a row for my work in building and scaling an entrepreneurship program and a startup incubator that not only grew in enrolment but led to the creation of over 100 ventures and innovative products.

What made it meaningful wasn’t just the award - it was seeing the long-term impact of designing a program that blended real-world innovation practices, mentoring, and digital tools. It reaffirmed my belief that with the right environment and structure, people can do extraordinary things. That mindset now carries through to all the client projects I take on - from designing AI-powered learning platforms to helping organizations build innovation-led cultures.

2. Talk us through an unusual career choice you’ve made along the way…

One unconventional move was stepping away from a senior academic leadership role in India to pursue a PhD in Strategy and Innovation in Australia. It wasn’t a career reset - it was a strategic investment in evolving my own thinking. This shift gave me a deeper lens on global business challenges, the Australian market, and future-focused strategy development. Since then, I’ve worked with local SMEs, startups, and universities to build AI-powered programs, design innovation frameworks, and advise on strategic transformation. That decision shaped how I now bring both an international perspective and locally grounded insight into the work I do.

3. When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a detective. I was always curious about how things work and loved solving puzzles. That mindset never really left - I still approach challenges by digging deeper, uncovering patterns, and connecting the dots others may miss. Today, I just do it with businesses instead of crime scenes.

4. What are your passions outside of work and how do you make time for them?

I’m passionate about writing, mentoring, and exploring how people learn and grow. I’m currently writing a book titled “The Other Side of Entrepreneurship” that looks at the human side of entrepreneurship - the version most people don’t see behind the headlines. I treat these interests as part of my life, not separate from work, and carve out time the same way I would for a client meeting - by showing up consistently.

5. If you could instantly master any skill or hobby, what would it be and why?

I’d love to master visual storytelling - using design, video, and motion to communicate complex ideas simply and powerfully. In a world of short attention spans, it’s a superpower to be able to explain strategy or innovation in a way that’s instantly understood and felt.

6. What’s a personal value or belief that guides the way you live your life?

“Design with purpose.” Whether I’m working on a product, a strategy, or a conversation, I try to be intentional about the outcome and the experience. I believe meaningful work comes from combining clarity, care, and courage.

7. What’s a challenge you’ve overcome outside of work that shaped you?

Starting over in a new country (twice) without professional networks or recognition was humbling. It forced me to listen more, learn faster, and build trust from scratch. That experience deepened my empathy - and made me a better consultant, leader, and collaborator.

8. What do you think your job will look like in 10 years’ time?

In 10 years, I see my role evolving into that of a strategic architect - using technology, AI and systems thinking to help organizations continuously adapt in real time. The future will demand less static planning and more dynamic, integrated problem-solving. But even as tools evolve, I believe human insight, trust, and creativity will remain irreplaceable.

9. If you could travel anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go and what would you do?

I’d go to Kyoto, Japan. I’m fascinated by how Japanese culture blends tradition with innovation. I’d spend time studying their approach to simplicity, design, and lifelong learning - and probably walk a lot, think a lot, and write. I’d also go to Ireland. I have a deep connection with the place, having lived and worked there early in my career. I’d revisit its landscapes and communities, reflect on how far the journey has come, and draw inspiration from its rich culture and quiet strength. 

10. What does success look like to you?

Success, to me, means doing work that creates real impact and reflects my values. It’s helping clients move forward with clarity and confidence, seeing teams grow through the strategies we shape together, and building a life where I can keep learning, contributing, and staying true to what matters - both in business and beyond. It also means creating and supporting solutions where technology and nature can coexist - not in opposition, but in harmony. I believe that the most sustainable strategies of the future will balance digital progress with environmental responsibility, and I want to play a part in helping organizations move in that direction.

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