Not all foundations are visible. Some of the strongest ones lie underground—unseen, uncelebrated, but absolutely essential.
Balachandar “Bala” Lakshmanan knows this deeply—not just as a mechanical engineer and SAP expert, but as a person who has built his life, career, and sense of purpose from quiet strength, deep humility, and the contributions of many.
A Lesson in Failure That Became a Turning Point
Bala still remembers 2006 like it was yesterday. He had gone in for an SAP Plant Maintenance Consultant role—eager, hopeful, but ultimately unsuccessful. Most would have seen it as a defeat. Bala saw it as a signpost.
“That failure didn’t break me—it redirected me.”
That moment of rejection pushed him out of his comfort zone and into consulting, where he found not just work—but purpose.
Not Just Bricks, But People
Bala likens life to building with bricks. “Some bricks are underground, forming the foundation. Some are behind the rendering. Others are decorative, standing out. But every brick matters.” The same, he says, is true for people.
Throughout his life and career, mentors, managers, peers—and even those who challenged him—have shaped the person he is today. He doesn’t forget any of them. He carries their lessons with quiet gratitude. “I am who I am because of them,” he says.
The Quiet Power of Being Trusted
Now an Asset Management Specialist at Brisbane City Council, Bala is a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in engineering, maintenance, and SAP consulting. But when asked what motivates him, his answer isn’t about accolades, titles, or milestones.
“It’s the trust my manager and organisation place in me. That’s what drives me to deliver—even when no one’s watching.”
There’s something quietly powerful about that. It’s not ambition that fuels him—it’s responsibility. A desire to honour the people who believe in him.
A Heart That Keeps Learning
Even with decades of experience under his belt, Bala insists he’s still a student. “I learn every day—from every person I meet,” he says. That humility is his edge. It’s what makes him not just a respected expert—but a human being you’d want on your team, or in your corner.
His advice to those starting out?
“Keep learning. Stay curious. Be open to new paths, even if they take you across the world. And most of all—respect the journey, no matter how slow or uncertain it feels.”
The Humble Builder
Balachandar Lakshmanan doesn’t shout his achievements from the rooftops. But make no mistake—he’s built something remarkable. Not just in systems or processes, but in people, trust, and legacy.
Some foundations don’t need to be seen to be felt. Bala is one of them.
Connect with Bala on LinkedIn
