Universal AI University has appointed Capt Vivek S Anand as Pro Vice Chancellor – Operations, bringing more than four decades of experience in shipping, logistics and operational leadership to the university.
A Master Mariner, Anand spent 24 years at sea before moving into senior corporate roles. He worked with NYK Line, where he was involved in building and leading the company’s India operations across multiple shipping verticals and later headed its all-India operations.
During his career, Anand has worked across around 100 countries and more than 500 ports, with experience in international operations, supply chains and logistics networks.
At Universal AI University, Anand will oversee operational functions including infrastructure projects, security and safety, food services, liaison and logistics.
His experience also includes work in public policy and higher education. He has served on the Maritime Think Tank Advisory Panel of the Government of Andhra Pradesh and was appointed a Member of the Court of the University of Pondicherry by the President of India. He has also served on the Faculty Recruitment Panel of the Indian Maritime University.
“Capt Vivek S Anand’s appointment reflects our belief that a next-generation university requires leadership that goes beyond conventional academic administration,” said Tarun Anand, Founder and Chancellor, Universal AI University.
“His experience in global shipping, logistics and complex operations will be important in strengthening our infrastructure, processes and campus ecosystem as the university continues to build an international, technology-led campus,” he added.
Anand said his experience in global shipping and logistics could be applied to building operational systems for a technology-driven university, with a focus on discipline, safety, coordination and preparedness.
Beyond his corporate roles, Anand has authored five white papers covering maritime policy, ports and terminals, ease of doing business, multimodal logistics and sustainable development. He has also received industry recognitions including Dynamic Logistics Professional of the Year in 2014, Mentor of the Year in 2018 and Most Exemplary Multi-Faceted Personality of the Year in 2019.
The appointment comes as Universal AI University expands its academic and campus infrastructure at Karjat in Maharashtra. The university said Anand’s operational experience would support the development of its campus systems and processes as it expands its technology- and industry-oriented academic ecosystem.
