MBE Spotlight: Amit Saraff

Amit is a seasoned outsourcing, technology, and procurement expert that has been supporting the USA, Singapore, and India with Smartshore for more than 15 years. Under the Smartshore umbrella, he has advised various Wall Street clients on technology and procurement outsourcing. Amit has been involved with outsourcing for over 25 years and has been instrumental in the conceptualization and implementation of global outsourcing and offshoring strategies for UBS Investment Bank, JPMorgan Chase, and MBNA (now Bank of America). Amit has completed the “Growing an Established Diverse Business” program from Tuck Executive Education at Dartmouth, received an MBA from the University of Delaware, and has a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from MIT, Manipal. 

About Smartshore

Smartshore is a 15-year-old IT services and procurement consulting company. They specialize in driving process transformations for financial services clients. By leveraging detailed process maps, RPA, ML, and AI, the company assists clients in adopting advanced technology tools such as reverse auctions and global workforce solutions. 

Operating in the USA, Singapore, and India, Smartshore has established itself as a key player in the industry. With a client base that includes several global banks, the company continues to deliver innovative solutions, showcasing its commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and leveraging cutting-edge technologies for the benefit of its clients.

What does being a minority business, or supporting minority businesses, mean to you?

Being a minority business, or supporting one, signifies recognizing and valuing diversity in the business landscape. It involves fostering an inclusive environment where businesses owned by individuals from underrepresented groups are given equal opportunities. Embracing minority businesses contributes to economic empowerment, creates a level playing field, and encourages a rich tapestry of perspectives. It’s about breaking down barriers, promoting fairness, and acknowledging that diverse voices bring unique strengths to the business world. Supporting minority businesses is not just a commitment to equality but a strategic move that enhances innovation, resilience, and overall success in a global and interconnected marketplace.

How has being certified with the NMSDC helped your business?

Smartshore has gained significantly after obtaining certification from NMSDC. Certification has enhanced credibility, and opened doors to new opportunities and partnerships, especially in the realm of supplier diversity. 

For Smartshore, this has meant increased access to contracts and collaboration with corporations committed to diverse suppliers. NMSDC certification signals a dedication to inclusion, aligning with the values of many businesses. Additionally, it provides resources like educational courses at Dartmouth College and support that can aid Smartshore’s growth and development. In essence, NMSDC certification has been a strategic move amplifying Smartshore’s presence and success in the industry.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you were starting out in your career?

I wish I had started my business in the early days of my career rather than focusing on getting an MBA and spending 8 years working for others. 

For more information on Amit Saraff and Smartshore, please visit: smartshore.us or follow their social media: Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.