For nearly two decades, Kiran 'KK' Kedari has worked at the intersection of technology and business, architecting solutions for some of Australia's most complex institutions. But to do that at the highest level, he knew he needed more than engineering instincts. He wanted the business language, the strategic frameworks, and the leadership perspective to match. That realisation, alongside his belief in being a ‘student for life’, led him to the Master of International Business (MIB) at the University of Sydney Business School.
Today, KK is Principal Architect for Corporate and Institutional Banking at Westpac, a role that demands exactly the kind of bridge-building between technology and business strategy that has defined his career.
A career built at the intersection
KK's journey into technology began in India, where he completed a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Software at Vasavi College of Engineering. He joined Infosys in 2006 as a fast-track trainee, quickly finding himself working on complex technology solutions for global banking clients including Shinsei Bank and UBS, the latter taking him to Zurich in 2010.
In 2012, he moved to Australia to work for Westpac as a technology consultant, a move that would define the next decade of his career. He progressed through roles including Solutions Architect, Senior Solutions Architect, and Domain Architect, building expertise across business lending, payments, and core banking transformation. A stint at Woolworths Group as a Senior Solutions Architect for supply chain and logistics rounded out an already diverse career before he returned to Westpac in his current role.
Bridging two worlds
KK enrolled in the Master of International Business at the University of Sydney in 2022, completing the degree while working full-time as a senior architect. Balancing professional demands, academic rigour, and family life was no small undertaking. The MIB program, with its focus on international trade, cross-border management, and global business strategy, offered something his engineering background alone couldn't: a structured way to understand the 'why' behind business decisions, not just the 'how'.
"Balancing personal, professional, and academic demands is the most difficult part, but it reinforced my commitment to continuous learning and showed me that with structure, discipline, and purpose, it is possible," says KK.
The MIB's international focus and applied curriculum aligned with KK's ambitions to operate not just as a technical expert, but as a business leader with a global outlook.
One experience stood out above the rest. As part of the Capstone unit, KK travelled to Peru for fieldwork, an unexpected highlight that left a lasting impression.
If I had to choose one surprise, it would be the Capstone unit and the field work in Peru. It is unlike anything you would expect from a business degree. I recommend every MIB cohort participate in this exchange. It is the kind of moment that captures what the MIB is designed to offer: not just frameworks and theory, but real-world immersion that challenges how you see business and the world.
Kiran Kedari
From architect to strategic leader
In his current role at Westpac, KK does what he has always done best: connect the dots. But the MIB sharpened how he does it.
"The MIB sharpened how I balance the best technology options against business outcomes, trade-offs, and opportunities. Understanding organisational culture and leadership philosophies helped me shape roadmaps for some of the most complex initiatives I've worked on."
Those initiatives include the commercialisation and commoditisation of supply chain for a major retailer, and the transformation of corporate and institutional banking for one of Australia's largest banks, the kind of work that requires as much business acumen as it does technical expertise.
When asked what he is most proud of across a career spanning nearly two decades, KK's answer is characteristically understated.
"I am humbled when a team member reaches out in later years to discuss ideas, reminiscing the contributions made, support provided, and seeking guidance. This for me is a token of positive impact for a better future.”
Advice for those considering the Master of International Business
For professionals from technical backgrounds sitting on the fence, KK's message is direct.
"Do it — act now. Obtaining a core understanding of the business environment and augmenting it with technology will position you well. The perspectives from professors and cohorts alone are worth it."
For professionals navigating an increasingly blurred line between technology and business, KK's story makes a compelling case for investing in both. The technical skills open the door, while the business thinking decides what to do once you're inside.