Our Mission is to Unlock the Strategic Value of Cloud Investments for Our Customers and Partners: Sasha Kipervarg, CEO of Ternary

Ternary is a cloud cost management platform that simplifies and enhances how businesses optimize cloud expenditures. By integrating advanced analytics and user-centric design, Ternary provides actionable insights that help organizations minimize waste and make informed financial decisions. The company enables seamless collaboration among stakeholders, allowing financial leaders, IT professionals, and executives to align strategies effectively. With its emphasis on adaptability and ongoing innovation, Ternary remains a vital resource in a dynamic industry while promoting sustainable practices and strategic resource allocation.

In a recent interview with SME Business Review, Sasha Kipervarg, co-founder and CEO of Ternary, discussed the company’s mission, the challenges of cloud cost management, and the vision driving its continued innovation. Here’s what Mr. Kipervarg had to say.

Interview Excerpts

What inspired you to co-found Ternary, and how did your background shape its vision?

I have always been fascinated by the intersection of technology and finance. My career has given me exposure to how cloud infrastructure evolves and the challenges businesses face in managing costs. Founding Ternary felt like the natural step to address these issues head-on. It was clear to me that organizations needed better tools to navigate cloud cost complexities. The vision for Ternary came from a desire to empower businesses with clarity and actionable insights—not just more data.

 What distinguishes Ternary’s approach to cloud cost management from other solutions?

From the outset, we wanted to prioritize usability and actionable insights. Businesses often get bogged down by raw data, which can be overwhelming. Our approach integrates advanced analytics with an intuitive platform that ensures users not only see the data but understand it in a way that drives decisions. Collaboration is another big differentiator. By fostering communication across teams—whether financial, IT, or executive—we’ve created a solution that aligns with the way businesses operate.

How do you ensure Ternary’s platform remains relevant in such a rapidly evolving industry?

It’s about staying close to our users and listening to their needs. Cloud technology changes quickly, and so do the challenges that come with it. We’re always enhancing the platform, whether by adding new features or refining existing ones, based on direct feedback. Our commitment to innovation isn’t just about keeping up with trends; it’s about staying ahead by anticipating what’s next.

Could you share an example of how Ternary has transformed a business’s financial strategy?

One case that stands out involved a mid-sized enterprise struggling with cloud cost overruns due to dynamic workloads. By implementing Ternary, the business gained real-time insights into where inefficiencies existed. Within months, they reduced unnecessary expenditures by over 20% and redirected those resources to innovation. Hearing stories like that—where we’re helping businesses thrive—is incredibly rewarding.

Collaboration seems to be a key focus for Ternary. Why is it so integral to your philosophy?

Cloud cost management isn’t just a technical problem; it’s a business-wide challenge. Different stakeholders—from finance teams to IT departments—need to work together to address it effectively. Our platform bridges those gaps by creating a shared space for input and action. This collaborative approach leads to better outcomes because it brings diverse expertise to the table.

How do you see Ternary contributing to sustainability within the tech industry?

Optimizing cloud costs isn’t just about saving money; it’s about eliminating waste. That’s where sustainability comes in. By helping businesses operate more efficiently, we’re indirectly reducing the environmental impact associated with unnecessary cloud resource consumption. It’s a small but meaningful step toward more sustainable practices across the industry.

What motivates you personally to keep driving Ternary forward?

Seeing the tangible impact Ternary has on businesses keeps me motivated. I’m also driven by the challenge of solving complex problems. Cloud cost management is multifaceted, and I enjoy finding elegant solutions to those challenges. On a broader level, building a company that values collaboration, innovation, and user empowerment is deeply fulfilling.

How has your leadership style evolved since co-founding Ternary?

I have learned the importance of adaptability and listening. Early on, I thought leadership was about having all the answers. Now, I see it as enabling others to bring their best ideas forward. Surrounding myself with talented, passionate people and trusting them to excel has been transformative. It’s not about leading from the front but creating an environment where everyone thrives.

What challenges have you faced as a co-founder and CEO, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges has been balancing long-term vision with immediate priorities. Startups often face pressure to deliver results quickly, but it’s crucial not to lose sight of the bigger picture. Staying focused on our mission while navigating day-to-day demands requires discipline and clarity. Having a strong team and a shared purpose makes all the difference.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to address complex industry challenges?

Start by deeply understanding the problem you want to solve. The most effective solutions come from a genuine comprehension of the pain points. Once you have that clarity, stay committed to iterating and refining your approach. Collaboration and adaptability are key. Don’t be afraid to seek feedback—the best ideas often come from unexpected places.

Sasha Kipervarg, Co-Founder & CEO, Ternary

Available as a SaaS platform and a self-hosted solution, Ternary manages more than $7B in multi-cloud spend across leading enterprises and managed service providers.