IT Veterans Secure 12–14% of C-Suite Roles in GCCs
India’s homegrown tech talent is now leading the global charge.
Over the last three years, Indian IT veterans have taken a commanding 12–14% share of C-suite positions in Global Capability Centres (GCCs). This sharp rise signals a shift in how multinationals view India—not just as a back office, but as a brain trust for global leadership.
What Are GCCs and Why Are They Important?
GCCs are offshore units of multinational companies (MNCs) that handle:
- Technology operations
- Finance & accounting
- Customer service
- R&D and innovation
India hosts over 1,600 GCCs (as per NASSCOM), employing 1.66 million+ professionals. This number is expected to cross 2 million by 2026.
Why Are IT Veterans Rising to C-Suite Roles?
Here’s why Indian IT leaders are dominating global leadership:
Deep domain expertise: Many have 15–20 years in areas like BFSI, healthcare tech, and AI.
Global exposure: Indian professionals are now managing cross-border teams and digital transformation.
Cost-efficient leadership: Promoting internal talent in India is cost-effective for global firms.
Crisis management record: Proven track record during COVID, managing global ops seamlessly.
Shift in GCC mandates: From support roles to innovation and strategic planning.
Real Examples from the Indian Market
- Goldman Sachs India: Its Bengaluru GCC now contributes directly to global investment banking analytics and is led by Indian tech heads.
- PepsiCo GCC (Hyderabad): Led by a former Infosys executive, this centre drives AI-powered supply chain transformation.
- Target India: CIO reports directly to the US HQ, managing both Indian and US teams from Bengaluru.
Key Stats on GCC Growth
| Metric | 2022 | 2025 (Projected) |
|---|---|---|
| Total GCCs in India | 1,450+ | 1,900+ |
| Workforce in GCCs | 1.66 million | 2.2 million |
| C-suite roles held by Indians | ~10% | 14%+ |
| Share of global tech R&D | 45% from India | 50%+ projected |
Source: NASSCOM, Zinnov Reports, Ministry of Electronics & IT
Expert View: What This Means for India’s Economy
According to Zinnov’s 2024 GCC India Study:
“The rise of Indian executives into global GCC leadership is a sign that India is no longer just executing strategy — it’s creating it.”
This leadership trend can:
- Boost India’s GDP contribution from tech exports
- Strengthen India’s soft power globally
- Increase upskilling and salary benchmarks for mid-level professionals
What Taxpayers & Business Owners Must Note
If you operate or work in a GCC:
- Income from overseas assignments may be taxed in India (see Section 9 of Income Tax Act, 1961)
- Stock options and RSUs offered by foreign employers are subject to capital gains tax
- Transfer pricing and TP documentation are mandatory for intra-group transactions — consult a tax expert
- Use the new ITR-2/ITR-3 forms for AY 2025–26 if you receive global perks or ESOPs
🔗 Check Efiletax’s detailed blog on ESOP taxation in India
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Will C-suite Indian leaders in GCCs have tax relief under DTAA?
Yes, if they qualify under India’s DTAA with the foreign country, they may avoid double taxation. Expert filing is advised.
Q2. Can Indian employees working remotely for GCCs abroad claim 80C or 80D?
Yes. Normal tax deduction provisions apply unless specifically restricted by employer contracts.
Q3. Is there a GST liability for freelancers working for GCCs?
Yes, if annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh (or ₹10 lakh in special category states), GST registration is needed unless services qualify as export of services.
Final Takeaway
The 12–14% rise of IT veterans in GCC C-suites isn’t just an HR story—it’s a geopolitical, economic, and compliance narrative. For professionals, this is the time to upskill and prepare for leadership. For businesses and tax consultants, the lines between domestic and international compliance are blurring.
📞 Need help with foreign income tax, RSUs, or ESOP filing? Talk to Efiletax experts today
Summary
Indian IT veterans now hold 12–14% of C-suite roles in Global Capability Centres (GCCs), reflecting India’s rise from back office to boardroom. Learn what this leadership trend means for professionals, taxpayers, and compliance in India’s expanding global tech economy.