Srihari
Sri Hari Vemparala
Designation: Partner: Defence, Aerospace, and Aviation Vertical
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Srihari is the Partner for the Defence, Aerospace, and Aviation Vertical at Cornerstone International Group, operating out of the Gurugram office.
In this role, Srihari is committed to position Cornerstone as the premier partner for C-Suite & Retained Executive Search, Board Advisory, and Leadership Consulting within India’s evolving Defence, Aerospace, and Aviation ecosystems. He leverages an in-depth understanding of these high-stakes sectors to help organizations navigate complex structural and leadership challenges.
Professional Experience
Srihari brings over three decades of distinguished leadership within the Indian Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Prior to transitioning to executive search, Srihari served as an Advisor to the Ministry of Defence within the International Cooperation Wing. In this capacity, he successfully spearheaded numerous high-profile domestic and transnational initiatives. He worked closely with the Ministry of External Affairs, Department of Defence Production, Defence Exhibition Organisation, Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers, FICCI, leading Indian think-tanks, public & private defence equipment manufacturing companies and startups. His work was pivotal in promoting defence exports, driving Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) mandates, and fostering strategic synergy among key public and private stakeholders.
Throughout his military career, he held diverse, high-consequence portfolios across India, including the command of an operational flying unit and a frontline station on the Indo-China border and key Staff appointment at operational Command HQ. In recognition of his exceptional service, he was awarded Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) by the President of India in 2025.
Academics and Interests
Srihari possesses a robust academic foundation blending strategic execution with leadership and governance which include Master of Defence and Strategic Studies from Madras University, Master of Aviation Management & Aviation Law from NALSAR University of Law, Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration (PGDBA) from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS). He has undergone advanced military programs such as Defence Services Staff College Course (DSSC), Senior Defence Management Course (SDMC), and Higher Defence Orientation Course (HDOC). Srihari’s interests include current affairs, travelling, adventure, golf, music, arts and literature.
Expertise and Core Focus
● Functional Expertise: Leadership Advisory, Strategic Communication, Stakeholder Engagement, Business Development, Risk Assessment & Change Management.
●Industry Expertise: Defence & Aerospace (Manufacturing & Exports), Aviation & Air Logistics Management, International Relations, Diplomacy, National Security & Leadership.
