Dato' Sadasivan was with the Malaysian Industrial Development Authority ("MIDA") for 27 years where he last served as its Director-General from 1984 to 1995. Prior to joining MIDA, he was an Economist/Head of Division with the Economic Development Board (EDB) of Singapore (1963 - 1968).

Dato' Sadasivan also sits on the boards of Chemical Company of Malaysia Berhad, Leader Universal Holdings Berhad, Petronas Gas Berhad, Amanah Capital Partners Berhad, APM Automotive Holdings Berhad and Multi Vest Resources Berhad. He is also a director of Bank Negara Malaysia.