As India celebrates its 79th year of Independence , a day that resonates with the spirit of sacrifice, duty, and nation-building, Amazon India honours the military veterans who continue to serve with distinction in their second careers. Their successful transition from the armed forces to e-commerce and technology demonstrates remarkable adaptability and invaluable skills. Through hiring initiatives, transition support, and mentorship programs, Amazon ensures these veterans’ military-honed capabilities align seamlessly with the company’s Leadership Principles, enriching the organization with their unique perspective and resilience.
Among these inspiring individuals is Vijay Subramanian, who served in the Indian Navy for 10 years before retiring as a Lieutenant Commander in 2014. His naval career highlights include a 72-hour non-stop rescue mission of a grounded naval ship off the coast of Kakinada, earning a Commander-in-Chief Commendation, and spearheading improvements to living conditions on warships that scaled across the Navy.
Amazon became Vijay’s first and only corporate employer when he joined as Manager – Operations. The alignment between Amazon’s Leadership Principles and military values like ownership and bias for action resonated deeply with his naval background. However, the transition to corporate life presented unique challenges. Recognizing the importance of supporting military veterans during their corporate transitions during this adjustment period, Vijay found valuable resources through ‘Warriors at Amazon’ employee-led group that offers collaboration, networking, and peer support specifically designed for former service members. He has also embraced learning and development opportunities at Amazon, helping him build on his military foundation while developing new business competencies essential for corporate success.
His career took a significant leap through internal mobility program when he relocated to Luxembourg in 2021 – an opportunity his leaders supported while offering him the freedom to return to India Operations if desired. This allowed him to take on more responsibility in a global context and the move aligned with his family’s goal to visit 50 countries before turning 50. Today, Vijay leads Global Logistics for EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) and sees his role as making complex operations run smoothly. His military experience continues to benefit him in his Amazon role. “Whether it’s staying calm in a crisis, planning under uncertainty, or leading diverse teams the military prepared me well. During a major logistics disruption, my background helped me manage the situation quickly and calmly while aligning multiple stakeholders,” he says.
To veterans considering corporate transitions, Vijay advises, “Translate military skills into business language. Don’t just say what you did but explain how it applies to the business world.”
Outside work, Vijay loves cricket and is an ICC-qualified international cricket umpire and avid traveler. His wife recently joined Amazon, providing shared work experiences bringing greater empathy at home.
Amazon India’s veteran support extends beyond hiring through mentorship and growth opportunities, enabling these remarkable individuals to continue their service legacy in the corporate world. The company has also forged strategic partnerships with the offices of the Director General of Resettlement (DGR), the Indian Naval Placement Agency (INPA), the Indian Air Force Placement Agency (IAFPA), the Army Welfare Placement Organization (AWPO), and the Indian Coast Guard to ensure that those leaving military service are aware of the meaningful work opportunities at Amazon throughout the country. These collaborations allow the company to tap into the talent pool within the armed forces, expanding the company’s engagement in hiring veterans with exceptional skills and expertise. This Independence Day, Amazon salutes all veterans, whose leadership enriches teams and drives excellence company-wide.