Oxitec People: Raja Mahendran, Business Development Director, APAC

Oxitec People: Raja Mahendran, Business Development Director, APAC

Can you tell us about your role at Oxitec and what it entails? 

I am enjoying being at the forefront of Oxitec’s expansion across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region as Business Development Director, APAC. In my role, I spearhead strategic partnerships and accelerate the path to market for our sustainable solutions. Since joining Oxitec in September 2023, I have leveraged my network to connect Oxitec with high-profile partners and have represented the company at major regional conferences such as the FAOPMA in Mumbai and the Sustainable Pest Management Forum in the Maldives. Additionally, I have participated in regional trade shows like the APMA in Thailand and AEPMA in Australia, helping introduce Oxitec’s work to the region. 

What motivated you to join Oxitec’s mission? 

What initially appealed to me was Oxitec’s technology as a brilliant sustainable to dreadful disease carrying mosquitoes. In the land of my birth, In Sri Lanka, dengue is a serious issue, and the same is true across India and Southeast Asia, with the threat also looming near the northern borders of my current home in Australia. Current chemical practices are falling short, resulting in overuse, pest resistance, and environmental pollution. In contrast, Oxitec’s technology is not only effective, but is also environmentally sustainable. Meeting the Oxitec team left a strong impression on me, and I felt it would be awesome to work with these people and help bring sustainable solutions to life. 

What do you enjoy about your role? 

I appreciate the empowerment I receive from Oxitec’s leadership. I love the people I work with and am amazed at how effectively we collaborate working towards Oxitec’s mission. From one end of the world in Australia to the other in Brazil, Argentina, and Costa Rica, with support from our team in the UK, I am well-equipped to meet the needs of prospective partners through conferences and trade shows. It’s awesome. 

I also value the flexibility of being able to split my time between Sydney, Australia, and Negombo, Sri Lanka. This allows me to effectively reach the vast APAC markets from both ends. My role enables me to pursue my passion for sustainable pest risk management while contributing to Oxitec’s strategic growth in the region. It’s exciting to be a key figure in driving Oxitec’s mission to transform global markets. 

What advice would you give to others wanting to pursue your area of work? 

Network extensively, be passionate about the present and future of our planet, and commit to sustainable solutions. Stay curious about insects and the diseases we need to understand. Build strong relationships with your colleagues, customers, and potential customers, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and follow through until your goals are achieved. 

Tell us about your family 

I live with my wife, Charmaine. We were together at Uni for our Masters. She knows just as much as me about pests and the industry as me she has often participated in industry events, and I bounce off ideas with her. We have a daughter Natasha living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia with her husband John and two-and half year-old son Ezzy. We have a son Misha living in Wollongong, Australia with his wife Belinda and one and half year-old daughter Eliana.