Charu Adesnik

Pioneer
DISC Type : ids

Executive Director, Cisco Foundation; Director, Social Impact and Innovation, Cisco Systems, Inc. at Cisco

Palo Alto, California, United States

Overview

As Executive Director of the Cisco Foundation, Charu Adesnik spearheads global social impact strategies, focusing on crisis response, economic empowerment, and climate resilience. A seasoned leader with experience at the World Bank and Deloitte, she is recognized for being a strategic and data-driven expert in designing programs that have positively impacted millions globally.

Charu identifies as a first-generation American and a mother, roles that she says shape her leadership style and how she listens and makes space for others. She is passionate about advancing inclusive and equitable solutions that generate lasting improvements for people and communities, driven by a belief in leveraging technology for good.

She champions the philosophy that "Good intentions don’t create impact. Good data does, " emphasizing measurement and accountability in philanthropy.

Personality Overview

Friendly But Fast

Dynamic But Sincere

Decisive But Friendly

They have the unique ability to win both love and respect from their team (or outsiders)  They combine a unique set of diverse traits where they are fast and friendly but can slow down to be thorough when needed If they are convinced, they can become very strong champions for your product

Topics They Care About

Data-Driven Philanthropy
Her public statements emphasize that real impact demands accountability and measurement, moving beyond just good intentions to data-backed results.
Technology for Good
Leads initiatives that provide funding, Cisco technology, and expertise to non-profits, helping them scale tech-driven solutions for social problems.
Economic Empowerment
A core focus of her work at the Cisco Foundation is funding and supporting non-profits that create economic opportunities for underserved communities.

Media Appearances

Cisco's Bold Approach to Setting Impact Goals. Featured in Apple Podcasts

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Charu Adesnik - Cisco Blogs (author page). Featured in Cisco Blogs

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Introducing our FY25 Cisco Foundation Impact Report. Featured in Cisco Blogs

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Work History

12-2008
Executive Director, Cisco Foundation; Director, Social Impact and Innovation, Cisco Systems, Inc. at Cisco
Senior Manager at Deloitte
Program Officer at The World Bank

Education

BA from Emory University
MBA from University of Miami

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 17 Location : Palo Alto, California, United States Job Level : Senior Designation : Executive Director, Cisco Foundation; Director, Social Impact and Innovation, Cisco Systems, Inc. at Cisco
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Insights For Selling To Charu

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Build a trustworthy relationship while keeping the product center-stage
  • Showcase existing customers and use case-studies to grab their attention
  • Mostly stick to your standard pitch and qualifying script, but add some stories or anecdotes to it

DONT's

  • Don’t hesitate from asking questions or pushing them, but take a formal approach
  • Don't lean very heavily into providing too much information, sharing whitepapers etc.
  • Don’t be too verbose or overly friendly; a little bit, however, is fine

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Charu is

  • Nothing less than a strong combination of proof of results, relationship and high levels of professionalism is effective with them.
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Charu

  • They can say no while staying friendly, but can also be pursuaded to reconsider

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Charu move?

  • They are generally fast movers and can take quick decisions
  • Can Charu take some risk or not?

  • They have high risk-appetite but can get ahead of themselves once in a while. Observe carefully

You And Charu

Personality Compatibility


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