DataFlow Voices: Meet CVSS Surya Narayana – Associate Senior Manager in India

Welcome back to DataFlow Voices! In this edition, we’re excited to bring you an exclusive one-on-one interview with CVSS Surya Narayana, a founding team member at DataFlow Hyderabad, India.

Surya takes us on a journey through the remarkable growth of the Hyderabad team, now boasting 84 employees. Join us as we delve into Surya’s remarkable achievements and inspiring journey with DataFlow.

Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your role at the DataFlow Group?

I am CVSS Surya Narayana, a founding team member of the DataFlow Group in Hyderabad. Currently, I serve as the Associate Senior Manager. It’s been a remarkable 17-year journey with DataFlow.

How did you come about being a part of DataFlow?

The investigative nature in me drew me towards DataFlow. Initially, I began my career as a field associate with another verification company. In 2007, I joined the DataFlow Group as one of the founding members in Hyderabad, India.

What stands out as your proudest moment during your time with DataFlow?

In 2007,  I was one of two DataFlow team members in Hyderabad and we started working from my residence. Today, we have an incredible office that proudly hosts a team of 84 employees. It’s been incredibly gratifying to witness this growth.

Working at a global organization must be quite an experience. How does it feel to work in such a multicultural environment?

Overall, it’s been a positive experience. Interacting with teams from different global offices provides unique cultural insights. Despite the differences, there’s a sense of family within DataFlow, which I find truly rewarding.

How do you start your day?

My day starts early, around 4:35 AM, as I prepare my kids for school and drop them off by 8:40 AM. I make sure I’m at the office by 9 AM.

What’s your motto, and how did you adopt it?

My motto for the past 17 years has been, “If it has to be done, it shall be done.” I believe in following through on commitments with unwavering determination.

Can you share some incidents from your career where you’ve spotted fake degrees or credentials?

Over the years, I’ve encountered several instances where my investigative skills have helped uncover fraudulent activities. For instance, we recently discovered fake certificates from a hospital in Andhra Pradesh, underscoring the importance of thorough verification processes. Now, when I examine an Issuing Authority such as a university or any hospital or clinic, I can confidently discern between fake and genuine documents.

Regarding education verification, around 2009, we began scrutinizing the recognition status of institutes offering specific courses. As of 2024, I have submitted approximately 4,500 Right to Information Act (RTI) requests pertaining to the accreditation of institutions offering various engineering, paramedical, and medical programs to obtain information about accreditation statuses and details regarding the accreditation process and criteria.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Ambitious, a smart worker, and passionate.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I cherish spending time with my family, especially cooking for them during weekends.

At DataFlow, we prioritize the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. How do you personally achieve this?

By allocating ample time and energy between family and work, I strive to strike a balance.

Is there anything else you’d like to highlight about your role or journey with DataFlow?

I’d like to emphasize the importance of integrity and a positive attitude in contributing to the organization’s success. My journey with DataFlow has been immensely rewarding and I’m grateful for the opportunities it has provided.