2018 Forty Under 40: Doug Ding

Practice Director
Kronos

Age: 35

Birthplace/hometown: Taipei, Taiwan; Carmel

Family: wife, Sarah; son, Declan, infant

Education: bachelor’s in sales management from Purdue University, MBA from the University of Notre Dame

Years with company: 1

Getting here: With a father who traveled the globe for import/export work, Ding always had a strong desire to be in international business. He was a client delivery leader for Accenture before settling in at Kronos. “I grew up here, loved it, had a strong network, and opportunities kind of happened,” he said of central Indiana. “I’m very fortunate to be able to come back closer to family and friends.”

Major achievement: Since joining Kronos, Ding and his leadership team have recruited and promoted more than 75 young professionals “and we plan to continue that momentum by investing in future technology leaders within Kronos and the Indy Tech Center.”

Recent challenge faced: “Probably keeping people interested in Indiana. We just need to be better marketers and better salesmen.”

On settling in: “I’m happy not spending life on the road,” he said. “I can sit here in Indy and get a conference call with my clients in India and make cell phone calls to China.” He said, “It’s nice being able to sleep in my own bed vs. a hotel.”

Givebacks: “I’ve spent a lot of time working with various non-profits, such as TechPoint, Urban Plunge and IndyHub. “[It’s very important] to get young professionals involved through charity, arts and culture. The biggest criteria for me right now is organizations that are helping Indianapolis.” He also serves on the young professional advisory council for Make a Wish, “an organization that has a special meaning since having my own son.”

Favorite place in central Indiana: “Some of my most cherished memories growing up were at Market Square Arena and the infamous playoff games between the Pacers and Knicks.” 

Downtime: “Attempting to play golf.”•

Check out more 2018 Forty Under 40 honorees.