In an age where artificial intelligence is redefining computing power and performance, one company is quietly changing the very foundation that makes it all possible —cooling. At the heart of this transformation stands ZutaCore, a global pioneer in sustainable, direct-on-chip liquid cooling. Their mission is both simple and profound: to cool the world’s hottest chips efficiently, sustainably, and responsibly.
THE SPARK OF INNOVATION
As computing density surges and AI workloads explode, traditional air-cooling systems are struggling to keep pace. ZutaCore’s technology offers a revolutionary alternative —a closed-loop, direct-on-chip liquid cooling system that not only eliminates water waste but also delivers unmatched energy efficiency and space optimization.
“We enable customers to run more in less space, at lower cost, and without wasting water,” says Vijay Sampathkumar, Vice President, India & South East Asia.Under his leadership, ZutaCore is becoming a trusted partner for hyperscalers, colocation providers, and enterprises transitioning to next-generation AI-ready infrastructure across the region — while also building reference points for global adoption.
A LEADER WITH VISION AND DISCIPLINE
For Vijay, leadership isn’t about hierarchy — it’s about accountability.
“Leadership is about focus and responsibility, not titles,” he says with conviction.
Known among peers as “VJ — Vision to Job Done,” his approach blends strategic foresight with disciplined execution. As regional head, Vijay drives go-to-market strategy, ecosystem partnerships, and revenue governance — with an eye on long-term growth and profitability. His leadership style is rooted in servant leadership —creating clarity, removing obstacles, and empowering teams and partners to succeed.
“I see myself as a servant leader,” he adds. “My job is to serve the team, my office, my partners and ecosystem so they can succeed.”
TECHNOLOGY THAT SETS A NEW STANDARD
What sets ZutaCore apart is a three pillars of technology, ecosystem, and execution. Its leak-proof, retrofit-friendly system makes liquid cooling both scalable and safe. Their partner-driven ecosystem — spanning OEMs, system integrators, and data center providers — ensures global reach with local impact.
And most importantly, their focus is on outcomes:
“Success is when customers trust us enough to run their most critical HPC, AI workloads,” Vijay emphasizes.
BUILDING THE FUTURE — SUSTAINABLY
ZutaCore’s vision goes far beyond cooling. The company aims to make sustainable, power-efficient, high-density cooling the global standard — eliminating water waste, reducing energy use, addressing the growing power challenge, and enabling AI infrastructure to expand without environmental compromise.
In India and Southeast Asia, Vijay’s team is building reference deployments and a robust partner network. Their approach ensures profitability, scalability, and long-term adoption — creating models that can be replicated across global markets.
HARNESSING TRANSFORMATIVE INTELLIGENCE
In a world shaped by data, ZutaCore integrates AI-driven monitoring and digital twin technologies into its systems. These tools allow enterprises to simulate performance and energy efficiency before deploying at scale.
“Our customers can see both the data and the results,” says Vijay. “That transparency creates confidence.”
A 2025 VISION: INDIA AS A GLOBAL SHOWCASE
Looking ahead, Vijay’s ambitions for 2025 and beyond are bold yet grounded in purpose. He envisions India as the global benchmark for AI-ready, green data centers, with large-scale deployments and deeper expansion into Southeast Asia.
But for him, this isn’t just infrastructure.
“Liquid cooling is not just about cost reduction — it’s a road towards sustainability, growth enabler, and profit driver.”
INDUSTRY TRENDS & TRANSFORMATION
Vijay identifies four key trends reshaping the industry:
“No one scales alone — growth multiplies when you empower partners,” he reflects.
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES WITH PERSISTENCE
ZutaCore’s journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Early on, liquid cooling was seen as risky or experimental. Changing perceptions required pilot programs, ROI-driven proof points, and long-term trust-building.
“Every small win matters — from a pilot converted to a partner enabled,” Vijay recalls.
Discipline, governance, and patience have been key to scaling sustainably in fast-moving markets.
DEFINING SUCCESS
For Vijay, success has three dimensions:
“Success is not just revenue — it is adoption, trust, and positive impact at scale.”
THE LEADERSHIP MINDSET
Every strategic decision Vijay makes begins with focus — choosing the right customers, partners, and priorities. He invests in governance and culture, emphasizing accountability and execution excellence.
“I encourage my team by giving clarity on the ‘why,’ celebrating wins, and creating ownership,” he says. “People thrive when they feel trusted to make decisions and see how their work drives outcomes.”
STRATEGIC SHIFTS AND THE ROAD AHEAD
ZutaCore’s current playbook is built on three pillars:
The company’s future includes making India a global reference point for sustainable AI infrastructure and expanding across Southeast Asia. Vijay’s focus on scaling talent and leadership capability ensures the next generation can carry this vision forward globally.
WISDOM FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
Vijay leaves readers with two powerful lessons:
“Having vision is important — but getting the job done with people and partners is what truly builds trust and impact.”
A GROUNDED LEADER
Despite a demanding role, Vijay believes in balance. His mornings begin with meditation and a jog, helping him stay centered. When time allows, he finds joy in cooking South Indian dishes — his idlis and chutneys are family favorites. And, of course, time with family remains his true anchor.
“Work gives purpose, but family and health give it meaning,” he smiles.
FINAL WORD
Under Vijay Sampathkumar’s leadership, ZutaCore isn’t just cooling chips — it’s powering the next generation of sustainable innovation. With every project and partnership, the company is shaping a future where performance and responsibility go hand in hand — creating sustainable growth at scale.
As Vijay aptly sums up:
India has a rare opportunity to emerge as the world’s AI-ready, sustainable data center hub — and I am grateful to contribute to that journey in a meaningful way
