Bengaluru, 20th August 2025: In a world where every decision demands both courage and calculation, this candid conversation offers a glimpse into the mind-set of a leader who blends bold ambition with careful foresight. From shaping career-defining moments through the wisdom of mentors to navigating the ever-shifting pendulum between work and family, his journey is anchored in gratitude, resilience, and intentional choices. With insights ranging from risk-taking frameworks to timeless financial advice, this interview captures the spirit of a life well-lived and purposefully led.
Join Sumon Mal, Head of Backend Engineering/VP Engineering at Sony Pictures Entertainment in an engaging conversation with Mr. Marquis Fernandes who spearheads the India Business for Quantic India, as they explore the beliefs, values, key turning points, and mind-set that have shaped Sumon’s remarkable career in marketing and customer experience.
What’s one belief or value that has guided you in every major decision?
For me, every decision comes down to three questions: What’s the cost of failure? What’s the cost of opportunity? And if things go wrong, what’s my damage control plan? Balancing these helps me take bold steps while staying prepared for uncertainties.
How do you balance family life with your demanding professional role?
I wouldn’t call it perfect balance — it’s more like a pendulum swing. Sometimes work takes centre stage, sometimes family does. I try not to get stuck at either extreme. Tools like time-boxing, a clear priority matrix, and making intentional time to nourish relationships help me keep both worlds moving forward.
Was there a turning point in your career that defined everything that followed?
My journey has been shaped by incredible mentors at different stages. Back in engineering college, Sumana Ma’am gave me a rock-solid foundation in OOPs. At Samsung, my mentor Champak Das taught me how the industry really works. Later, my engineering guru, the Late. Moushumi Ghosh, showed me what “real” engineering is. At Tesco, Amit Krishna and Madhu Dharwad introduced me to people management and organizational dynamics. These experiences became my turning points. And through it all, one constant pillar has been my wife, Pooja — she has carried the load at home and stepped back countless times so I could move forward.
What is the one piece of financial advice you would like to give to your younger self?
If I could go back to 2012, I’d tell myself: buy Nifty 50 stocks, invest in small-cap mutual funds, and purchase land in Mahadevpura, Bangalore — and hold onto them for dear life.
If you could describe your life philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?
I’m grateful for this life and for everything I have.
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