Granicus names Karthik Anbalagan to lead AI in public sector

Granicus has appointed Karthik Anbalagan as General Manager of Emerging Technologies, a new position tasked with leading strategic innovation initiatives in generative and agentic AI for public sector engagement.

In this newly created role, Anbalagan will focus on developing scalable AI Agent solutions tailored specifically for the unique needs of government clients. His remit includes driving innovation across Granicus' emerging product portfolio, which features CRM/CDP platforms, constituent analytics, and agentic technologies.

Anbalagan is also responsible for managing the adoption and integration of these new solutions as Granicus continues to support government agencies in developing strategies for constituent support and automation of public services.

Leadership and strategy

Mark Hynes, Chief Executive Officer of Granicus, commented on the appointment and the significance it holds for the company's objectives in supporting public sector transformation.

"Karthik's appointment marks a significant step forward in our commitment to help governments harness the power of a rapidly developing landscape of emerging technologies. His deep expertise in AI and proven ability to develop innovative-driven businesses shaped by customer partnerships will accelerate our efforts to support public sector leaders as they look to leverage emerging tech to substantially improve their ability to measure and deliver meaningful outcomes to the communities they serve."

According to the company, Anbalagan brings more than two decades of experience in product, technology, and business leadership. His resume includes roles at major international firms such as Microsoft and Amazon, as well as Chewy, where he led initiatives in customer experience and the launch of new business segments.

Prior to joining Granicus, Anbalagan advised organisations at various stages on AI strategy, product development, and operational transformation. At Chewy, he held senior executive positions focused on customer experience and innovation, while at Amazon, he managed global projects in innovation and personalisation across digital content, retail, and fashion technology.

Focus on public sector transformation

Anbalagan's appointment comes at a time when public sector organisations are showing a marked interest in harnessing AI-enabled technologies to transform their services and constituent engagement at scale.

"I'm thrilled to join Granicus at such a pivotal moment. Governments around the world are demonstrating a strong interest in embracing AI in ways that truly improve efficiency and deliver better services at scale. Building deeper and more meaningful connections between governments, public servants, and citizens is both a tremendous opportunity and a noble cause. Granicus has the platform, the vision, and the customer trust to lead this transformation - and I'm excited to help make it happen," said Anbalagan. 

The company stated that Anbalagan's role will involve responsibility for promoting and supporting significant adoption of emerging technology solutions among its government customers, as they work to modernise service delivery and constituent support.

Anbalagan's arrival is intended to reinforce Granicus's position in delivering AI-driven products that aim to enhance the interaction and relationship between public institutions and their communities.

Product development and AI initiatives

As General Manager of Emerging Technologies, Anbalagan will oversee the development and deployment of advanced AI Agent solutions that are specifically designed to meet governmental requirements. These solutions include products for relationship management, data analytics, and digital engagement technologies.

Granicus said that through these efforts, the company is seeking to facilitate improvements in measurement standards and delivery capability for public sector organisations, all while maintaining a focus on transparency and outcome-oriented results for the communities that governments serve.

Anbalagan's remit will also include working closely with Granicus' public sector clients as they implement or expand their use of AI and analytics for automating constituent services, in order to optimise service quality and responsiveness.

The company's announcement highlights the importance it places on strategic leadership and investing in technology designed to help public institutions operate more efficiently and responsively to the needs of citizens.