Every successful intrapreneurial journey is an enriching treasure trove of individual experiences and perspectives. Adorned with her inspirations, dreams, challenges, achievements, and aspirations of becoming a global woman leader, Rashmi Sharma’s saga is a testament to resilience and innovation in the corporate world. Today, as the Generative AI and Transformation Lead for Operations at Accenture, Australia, Rashmi’s journey to becoming a global leader in the corporate world was shaped by a myriad of influences and experiences in the early stages of her career. “Looking back, I can pinpoint several key factors that set me on this path.”
Early Career Influences
Educational Foundation: Rashmi’s educational background laid the groundwork for her professional journey. Pursuing her Masters in Business Administration was her first step into the corporate world. The rigorous curriculum, case studies, and interactions with peers and mentors at the business school gave her a solid foundation in business acumen, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills. “One particular case study on organizational behavior profoundly changed my perspective on leadership,” Rashmi recalls. This academic experience shaped Rashmi’s analytical mindset and understanding of the business world.
Initial Career Choices: Starting her career in the banking sector was a deliberate choice. Rashmi was drawn to the industry’s blend of service orientation and financial expertise. “My role in banking, particularly in operations and customer service, taught me the importance of attention to detail, risk management, and balancing customer satisfaction with operational efficiency,” she recalls. “I remember a challenging project where I led a team to revamp our customer service approach, significantly improving client satisfaction scores,” she adds. These early years were instrumental in developing a strong work ethic and a customer-centric approach.
Transition to Telecom and IT: The decision to transition from banking to the telecom sector, and eventually to IT and consulting, was driven by Rashmi’s desire for continuous learning and growth. “The telecom sector was like a new world. I had to quickly adapt to its fast-paced nature, which was both challenging and exhilarating,” Rashmi reflects. Each industry switch brought new challenges and learning opportunities. In telecom, she was exposed to a more dynamic and fast-paced environment, where she learned about the importance of adaptability and innovation. Moving to IT and consulting was a significant leap that introduced her to digital transformation and global business strategies. “These transitions were not just career moves but were pivotal in broadening my perspective and skillset.”
Mentorship and Networking: Throughout her career, according to Rashmi, she has been fortunate to have mentors who have guided and inspired her. “Their advice and support played a significant role in my professional development.” “One mentor, in particular, encouraged me to take on a leadership role that I initially doubted I was ready for. This pushed me out of my comfort zone and was a turning point in my career,” she shares. Networking within and outside the industry also opened new opportunities and insights. Engaging with diverse professionals helped her build a robust professional network and learn from different leadership styles and business practices.
Overcoming Challenges: As a woman in the corporate world, Rashmi faced her share of challenges, including gender bias and work-life balance issues. “There were times when my ideas were overlooked in meetings, or I had to juggle critical work deadlines with my children’s needs,” Rashmi recounts. These challenges taught her resilience and the importance of self-advocacy. “I learned to navigate these obstacles by focusing on my strengths, delivering results, and building supportive networks.”
Continuous Learning: Rashmi always believed in the power of constant learning. “I remember attending a seminar on emerging AI technologies, which sparked my interest and led me to pursue further certifications in this field,” she notes. Keeping up with industry trends, pursuing professional development courses, and staying curious have been integral to her growth. This commitment to learning has kept her relevant and equipped to handle the evolving demands of her roles.
Rashmi’s early career influences were a blend of strategic educational and career choices, mentorship, networking, resilience in the face of challenges, and a commitment to continuous learning. These elements collectively forged her path to leadership and continue to influence her approach as a global leader.
Defining Moments
Reflecting on her career, Rashmi says several defining moments have significantly impacted her professional trajectory. These moments were not just milestones but also turning points that shaped her approach to leadership and business.
First Major Promotion: One of the earliest defining moments was Rashmi’s promotion to a managerial role in the banking sector. This promotion came within just 11 months of her career. “It was unexpected but a clear indication that my efforts were being recognized,” she explains. It was a recognition of her hard work, but more importantly, it was a testament to her ability to lead and manage effectively. “This early success in my career was a confidence booster and a validation of my leadership potential,” Rashmi reflects. “It taught me the importance of taking initiative, being results-oriented, and the power of effective people management.”
Industry Switch to Telecom: Perhaps the most significant pivot in her career was the decision to leave banking and enter the telecom sector. “I remember feeling both excited and nervous about this new chapter,” Rashmi shares. Her desire to explore new challenges and break out of the conventional path drove this move. The telecom sector, being more dynamic and fast-paced, offered Rashmi the opportunity to work in a rapidly evolving industry. “Adapting to the telecom sector’s culture was a learning curve, but it brought out a side of me that thrived on innovation and fast-paced environments,” she adds. This transition was difficult; it required her to step out of her comfort zone, learn new skills, and adapt to a completely different industry culture. However, this challenge honed Rashmi’s adaptability and resilience: “Qualities that have been crucial in my journey,” she acknowledges.
Embracing Digital Transformation: Rashmi’s foray into digital transformation in the IT and consulting sector was another defining moment. “Entering the world of IT and consulting was like stepping into the future. It was here that I truly realized the power of technology in transforming businesses,” Rashmi recalls. This move was aligned with her interest in technology and its impact on business. It was a significant learning curve, as she had to quickly get up to speed with the latest technological trends and their applications in business. “This experience not only expanded my horizons but also gave me a deeper understanding of how technology can drive business growth and transformation,” she notes.
Leadership in Times of Crisis: A defining moment in terms of leadership came when Rashmi had to navigate her team through a significant organizational change. “It was a period of great uncertainty, but it also presented an opportunity to lead with empathy and clarity,” Rashmi reflects. This period was marked by uncertainty and challenges. Leading her team through this phase required strategic thinking, empathy, clear communication, and the ability to inspire confidence. “This experience underscored the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and the need to be agile and decisive in times of crisis,” she adds.
Global Exposure: Working in a global environment and interacting with clients and teams from different cultures and backgrounds has been a defining aspect of Rashmi’s career. “The global exposure broadened my understanding of the business world and taught me the value of cultural diversity in shaping business strategies,” she says. “This exposure has been invaluable in shaping my global perspective and understanding of diverse business practices and consumer behaviours.” It has made her more inclusive in her approach and enhanced her ability to operate and lead globally.
These defining moments collectively shaped Rashmi’s professional journey. They were about career advancement, personal growth, learning, and the continuous evolution of her leadership style. “Each of these moments brought with it lessons that have been instrumental in shaping me into the leader I am today,” she says.
Leadership Evolution
Rashmi’s leadership style has significantly evolved over the years, shaped by diverse experiences, challenges, and the changing dynamics of the business world. Reflecting on this evolution provides insights into the key lessons that have shaped her approach to leadership.
Early Leadership Style: In the initial stages of her career, Rashmi’s leadership style was largely directive. As a young manager in the banking sector, she focused on achieving targets, maintaining operational efficiency, and ensuring compliance. “I was more focused on the ‘what’ of leadership rather than the ‘how,'” Rashmi explains. While this style was effective in a structured environment like banking, it had limitations in fostering innovation and employee engagement.
Shift to a Collaborative Approach: The transition to the telecom sector began a shift in her leadership style. The dynamic nature of the telecom industry, with its constant changes and need for innovation, required a more collaborative approach. “I learned the value of teamwork and the power of diverse ideas during this phase,” Rashmi recalls. Rashmi started focusing more on team empowerment, encouraging open communication, and valuing diverse opinions. “This shift not only improved team morale but also led to more innovative solutions and a more agile team,” she adds.
Embracing Emotional Intelligence: As she progressed in her career, especially in leadership roles in IT and consulting, Rashmi realized the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. “I began to appreciate the nuances of team dynamics and the importance of understanding individual team members,” she notes. Leading diverse teams and managing client relationships globally required a deep understanding of emotional dynamics. “I learned to be more empathetic, to listen actively, and to understand the motivations and aspirations of my team members,” Rashmi shares. “This approach helped me build stronger relationships, foster a positive work environment, and lead more effectively.”
Strategic and Visionary Leadership: In recent years, Rashmi’s leadership style has evolved to be more strategic and visionary. “With experience, I’ve learned to look beyond the immediate and plan for the future,” she says. With experience, she has gained a broader perspective on business and technology trends. “This has enabled me to guide teams not just on operational aspects but also on strategic initiatives,” Rashmi explains. She focuses on setting a clear vision, aligning team efforts with organizational goals, and preparing the team for future challenges. “This visionary aspect of leadership is crucial in today’s rapidly changing business landscape,” she adds.
Adaptability and Continuous Learning: One of the key lessons in her leadership journey has been the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. “The business world is constantly evolving, and as a leader, I need to evolve with it,” Rashmi acknowledges. It means staying abreast of industry trends, being open to new ideas, and continuously refining her leadership skills. “I encourage a learning culture within my team, emphasizing the need for continuous personal and professional development,” she says.
Inclusive Leadership: Finally, her leadership style has become more inclusive. “Diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords; they are essential for a healthy, innovative workplace,” Rashmi states. She adds, “I strongly believe in the power of diversity and inclusion in driving innovation and business success. I strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to contribute their best.” “This inclusive approach has enriched our team’s creativity and problem-solving abilities and made us more representative of the diverse markets we serve,” she concludes.
In short, Rashmi’s leadership evolution has been a journey from a task-oriented manager to a strategic, empathetic, and inclusive leader. “Each stage of this journey has contributed to my understanding of effective leadership and has shaped my approach to leading in a global, dynamic business environment,” she reflects.
Triumphing Over Challenges with Resilience
A series of challenges have marked Rashmi’s journey as a woman in leadership, each requiring resilience and a strategic approach to overcome. “These challenges have not only tested my capabilities but also provided valuable lessons that have shaped my career,” Rashmi states.
Breaking Gender Stereotypes: One of the earliest challenges Rashmi faced was breaking the gender stereotypes prevalent in the corporate world. “As a woman in leadership roles traditionally dominated by men, I often had to prove my worth twice as much,” she recalls. As a woman in leadership roles traditionally dominated by men, especially in sectors like banking and telecom, she often encountered biases and preconceived notions about her capabilities. “Overcoming these stereotypes required me to consistently demonstrate competence, assert my ideas, and deliver results that spoke for themselves,” Rashmi explains. It was a continuous effort to be seen for her work and not just as a woman in a leadership position.
Work-Life Balance: As a single mother, achieving a work-life balance has been a significant challenge. “Juggling the demands of a high-profile career with the responsibilities of raising two young children was a tightrope walk,” Rashmi shares. Managing this required meticulous planning, setting priorities, and delegating effectively. “I am immensely grateful to my mother, who was my rock during this time, providing unwavering support and care for my children,” she adds. This challenge taught Rashmi the importance of time management, the importance of self-care, and the need to set boundaries for a healthy work-life balance.
Navigating Organizational Changes: Leading through periods of significant organizational change, such as mergers, acquisitions, and strategic shifts, presented another set of challenges. “These situations often involved steering the team through uncharted waters,” Rashmi recalls. These situations often involved managing uncertainty, aligning teams with new goals, and maintaining morale. “My approach was to communicate transparently, involve the team in the change process, and focus on the opportunities that change brought,” she explains. This experience underscored the importance of adaptability and resilience in leadership.
Cultural Sensitivity in a Global Environment: Working in a global environment challenges navigating different cultures, business practices, and client expectations. “I had to quickly adapt to different cultural nuances, which was both challenging and enriching,” Rashmi notes. It required a high degree of cultural sensitivity and the ability to adapt her communication and leadership style to diverse settings. “This challenge was an opportunity to broaden my perspective, enhance my global acumen, and learn to lead effectively in a multicultural context,” she adds.
Keeping Pace with Technological Advancements: In the rapidly evolving field of IT and consulting, staying abreast of technological advancements and industry trends has been a continuous challenge. It required a commitment to lifelong learning, curiosity, and openness to new ideas. “This challenge has been instrumental in keeping me relevant and effective as a leader in a technology-driven industry,” Rashmi notes.
Fostering Diversity and Inclusion: Promoting diversity and inclusion within the organization has been a challenge close to her heart. It involved advocating for policies and practices that support diversity and creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued. “This challenge taught me the importance of empathy, active listening, and the need to champion diversity as a policy and core value,” she adds.
“The challenges I faced as a woman in leadership have been diverse and complex. Each challenge required a unique approach, resilience, and a learning mindset,” Rashmi states. Overcoming these challenges has strengthened her leadership capabilities and enriched Rashmi’s professional journey, making her a more empathetic, adaptable, and effective leader.
Mentorship and Empowering Others
Mentorship has played a crucial role in her career, both as a mentee and as a mentor, says Rashmi. Her approach to mentorship and empowering others is rooted in the belief that everyone has unique potential, and with the right guidance and support, they can achieve remarkable success.
As a Mentee: Early in her career, Rashmi was fortunate to have mentors who provided invaluable guidance. They helped her navigate the corporate landscape, identify growth opportunities, and develop leadership skills. These mentors were advisors and advocates who believed in her potential. “Their encouragement and constructive feedback were instrumental in building my confidence and shaping my career path,” she recalls.
Transitioning to a Mentor: As she progressed in her career, Rashmi realized the importance of giving back by mentoring others. She transitioned from a mentee to a mentor, taking young professionals, especially women, who were starting their careers under her wing. “My approach to mentorship is centered around understanding my mentees’ individual needs and aspirations,” she explains. She focuses on providing them personalized guidance, sharing her experiences, and helping them navigate their career paths.
Empowering Through Knowledge Sharing: “Empowerment is a key aspect of my mentorship,” Rashmi emphasizes, as she believes in empowering her mentees by sharing knowledge, providing resources, and encouraging them to take on challenging assignments. This approach helps them build their skills, gain confidence, and become self-reliant professionals. “I often organize workshops and training sessions to share insights and experiences that can aid their professional development,” she adds.
Creating Opportunities for Growth: Another important aspect of her mentorship is creating opportunities for her mentees to grow. This includes recommending them for projects that align with their career goals, introducing them to networking opportunities, and advocating for their advancement within the organization. “I make it a point to highlight their achievements and potential to senior management, ensuring they receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve,” Rashmi states.
Fostering a Supportive Environment: Rashmi also focuses on fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where mentees feel comfortable discussing their challenges, seeking advice, and sharing their successes. “This involves being approachable, actively listening, and providing a safe space for open and honest communication,” she explains.
Encouraging Continuous Learning: Rashmi encourages her mentees to adopt a mindset of continuous learning and self-improvement. “I emphasize the importance of staying curious, keeping abreast of industry trends, and being open to feedback,” she says. This involves lifelong learning as a key driver of professional growth and success.
Leading by Example: Finally, Rashmi believes in leading by example. She strives to be a role model for her mentees by demonstrating the values of hard work, integrity, and resilience. “By sharing my own experiences, both successes and failures, I aim to inspire them to pursue their goals with determination and perseverance,” Rashmi reflects.
In short, her approach to mentorship and empowering others is holistic, focusing on personalized guidance, knowledge sharing, creating growth opportunities, fostering a supportive environment, encouraging continuous learning, and leading by example. “Through mentorship, I aim to not only help individuals in their professional development but also contribute to building a more diverse and inclusive leadership pipeline in the corporate world,” Rashmi concludes.
Vision for Personal Growth
Rashmi’s vision for personal growth is deeply intertwined with her professional aspirations and a desire to contribute meaningfully to the industry and society. Looking ahead, she has set several goals for herself, each aimed at fostering continuous development and making a significant impact.
Continued Learning and Innovation: In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and business, staying at the forefront of innovation is crucial. “My goal is to continue learning about emerging technologies and business trends,” Rashmi asserts. This involves formal education and certifications, engaging with thought leaders, participating in industry forums, and staying curious. Rashmi aims to integrate these learnings into practical applications that can drive business transformation and societal progress.
Expanding Global Influence: As a leader in a global organization, Rashmi aspires to expand her influence by contributing to the worldwide strategy and operations. “This includes understanding and navigating different cultural, economic, and political landscapes to drive our organization’s growth and success in various markets,” she explains. Rashmi aims to leverage her experience and insights to help our organization adapt and thrive in diverse environments.
Mentorship and Advocacy: Empowering the next generation of leaders, especially women in technology and business, is a personal passion for Rashmi, who plans to intensify her mentorship efforts, providing guidance and support to young professionals. Additionally, she aims to advocate for policies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. “By doing so, I hope to contribute to a more diverse and inclusive leadership landscape,” she notes.
Personal Branding and Thought Leadership: Another important goal is establishing herself as a thought leader in her field. Rashmi explains, “This involves sharing my insights and experiences through speaking engagements, publications, and social media and actively contributing to the discourse on key industry issues. I aim to build a personal brand synonymous with innovation, leadership, and social responsibility.”
Social Impact and Community Engagement: Giving back to the community and making a social impact is integral to her vision for personal growth. She plans to engage more actively in community service and social initiatives, leveraging her skills and resources to make a difference. “This could involve supporting educational programs, participating in charitable activities, or advocating for causes that align with my values,” Rashmi shares.
Work-Life Harmony: For Rashmi, the journey towards achieving work-life harmony has been a learning curve marked by self-realization and change. “In the past, my intense focus on work often led to missed opportunities for quality time with my family and personal self-care,” Rashmi admits. “Acknowledging the importance of a healthy work-life balance has been a crucial turning point for me,” she adds. “It’s about finding that sweet spot where professional success and personal fulfillment coexist, enhancing each other,” Rashmi concludes, highlighting her ongoing commitment to achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.
Legacy: Ultimately, her vision for personal growth is to leave a legacy beyond professional achievements. Rashmi aspires to be remembered as a leader who excelled in her field, made a lasting positive impact on people’s lives, and contributed to the betterment of society. “My goal is to inspire future generations to lead with compassion and integrity,” Rashmi states. She envisions a legacy that reflects her commitment to ethical leadership, mentorship, and social responsibility. “I want to be remembered not just for what I achieved, but for how I empowered others, fostered innovation, and upheld values that benefit society as a whole,” she concludes, highlighting her aspiration to be a role model for values-driven leadership.
Rashmi’s vision for personal growth encompasses continuous learning, global influence, mentorship, thought leadership, social impact, work-life harmony, and building a meaningful legacy. “These goals drive my aspirations and actions, shaping my journey towards becoming a more impactful leader and individual,” she concludes.
Guidance for Future Leaders
Guiding future leaders, especially women aspiring to leadership positions, is a responsibility Rashmi takes seriously. Based on her experiences, here are some key pieces of advice she offers:
Embrace Your Unique Perspective: As a woman in leadership, you bring a unique perspective. Embrace it. Your insights, experiences, and intuition are valuable assets. They can lead to innovative solutions and approaches that might not be immediately apparent to others. “I’ve learned that my perspective as a woman has often provided fresh insights into complex problems,” Rashmi shares. Don’t shy away from expressing your views and contributing your ideas.
Build a Strong Foundation of Skills: Build a strong foundation of skills relevant to your field. This includes both technical and soft skills. Stay abreast of industry trends, technological advancements, and business best practices. “I’ve always prioritized skill development, whether it’s learning a new technology or enhancing my leadership abilities,” she emphasizes. Continuous learning and skill development are crucial in keeping you relevant and effective as a leader.
Cultivate Resilience and Adaptability: The path to leadership is often fraught with challenges and setbacks. Cultivate resilience by learning from failures and setbacks rather than being discouraged by them. Adaptability is equally important; be open to change and pivot when necessary. “My journey has been full of twists and turns, but adapting to these changes has been key to my success,” Rashmi reflects. These qualities are essential for navigating the complexities of the corporate world.
Develop Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence is a critical skill for effective leadership. It involves understanding and managing your emotions and those of others. Develop the ability to empathize, communicate effectively, and build strong relationships. “Emotional intelligence has been a cornerstone of my leadership, helping me connect with my team and clients on a deeper level,” she notes. These skills are invaluable in leading teams, managing conflicts, and driving positive organizational culture.
Seek Mentorship and Networking Opportunities: Seek mentors who provide guidance, feedback, and support. A good mentor can accelerate your learning and open doors to new opportunities. Additionally, invest time in networking. “Networking has opened many doors for me, and I’ve met incredible mentors and peers along the way,” Rashmi adds. Building a broad network of professional contacts can provide you with diverse perspectives and opportunities for collaboration.
Advocate for Yourself and Others: Learn to advocate for yourself – your ideas, career advancement, and needs. Self-advocacy ensures that your contributions are recognized and your career progresses. Similarly, advocate for others, especially those whose voices might be underrepresented. “I’ve learned the importance of speaking up, not just for myself but for others who may not have a voice,” she says. This fosters a more inclusive environment and enriches the organization with diverse viewpoints.
Balance Professional and Personal Life: Strive to balance your professional ambitions and personal life. This balance is different for everyone and can change over time. Setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and making time for family and personal interests are important. “Finding balance has been crucial for my well-being and effectiveness as a leader,” Rashmi admits. A well-rounded life contributes to your effectiveness and satisfaction as a leader.
Lead with Integrity and Authenticity: Finally, lead with integrity and authenticity. Be true to your values and principles. Authentic leadership builds trust and respect among your team and colleagues. “Integrity and authenticity have been the bedrock of my leadership style,” Rashmi concludes. It also sets a positive example for others to follow.
Rashmi adds, “My advice to future leaders is to embrace their unique perspectives, continuously develop skills, cultivate resilience and adaptability, develop emotional intelligence, seek mentorship, advocate for themselves and others, balance professional and personal life, and lead with integrity and authenticity. These principles have guided my journey and are key to successful and fulfilling leadership.”
Adapting to Industry Changes
Adapting to the rapid IT and consulting industry changes has been a cornerstone of Rashmi’s professional journey. The industry continuously evolves, driven by technological advancements and shifting market dynamics. Here’s how she navigated these changes:
Embracing a Learning Mindset: A learning mindset has been fundamental in adapting to industry changes. “I’ve embraced emerging technologies like AI and blockchain, understanding their potential impact on our business,” Rashmi explains. This involves curiosity and openness to new ideas, technologies, and methodologies. Rashmi has consistently invested in education through formal courses, workshops, or self-study to keep her skills and knowledge up-to-date. This continuous learning approach has enabled her to stay relevant and effective.
Staying Informed and Proactive: Keeping abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and market shifts is crucial. “I regularly participate in tech forums and think tanks to stay ahead of the curve,” Rashmi says. This provides her with insights into where the industry is heading and helps her anticipate changes and proactively adapt strategies and operations accordingly.
Fostering Innovation and Agility: In a rapidly changing industry, fostering a culture of innovation and agility within her team and organization has been key. “We’ve implemented agile methodologies and encouraged a startup mindset within teams to spur innovation,” she adds. This means encouraging experimentation, supporting creative problem-solving, and being willing to take calculated risks.
Leveraging Technology: Leveraging technology to optimize operations and services has been essential as a leader in IT and consulting. “We’ve adopted cloud computing and IoT solutions to enhance our service offerings,” Rashmi notes. Whether automating processes, using data analytics for decision-making, or adopting cloud solutions, technology has been a critical enabler in staying ahead in the industry.
Building a Resilient Team: Building a resilient and adaptable team has been another important aspect. “I focus on diversity in skills and thought in team composition, ensuring adaptability to changing market demands,” she explains. This involves hiring individuals with diverse skills and perspectives, providing them with opportunities for growth and development, and creating an environment where they feel empowered to contribute their best.
Networking and Collaboration: Networking and collaboration with peers, industry experts, and other organizations have provided Rashmi with broader perspectives and insights. “Collaborations, especially in cross-industry projects, have been key to understanding broader market needs,” she states.
Balancing Core Values with Innovation: While adapting to the changes, Rashmi has ensured that she and her team stay true to their core values and mission. “Maintaining our ethical standards while innovating has been crucial in our sustainable growth,” she emphasizes.
Adapting to industry changes in IT and consulting has involved embracing a learning mindset, staying informed and proactive, fostering innovation and agility, leveraging technology, building a resilient team, engaging in networking and collaboration, and balancing core values with innovation. “These strategies have enabled me to navigate the industry’s complexities and lead effectively through its evolution,” Rashmi concludes.
Sustainability in Leadership
Rashmi furthers that incorporating sustainability principles and ethical leadership into her leadership style has been a continuous evolution and commitment journey. “Integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors into our business decisions has been a key focus,” she notes. In today’s world, where businesses are increasingly held accountable for their impact on society and the environment, sustainable leadership is not just a choice but a necessity. Here’s how she integrated these principles into her leadership:
Leading by Example in Sustainable Practices: As a leader, Rashmi believes in leading by example when it comes to sustainability. “I advocate for and practice sustainable living both professionally and personally,” she says. Whether advocating for energy-efficient office spaces, supporting environmentally friendly projects, or making eco-conscious choices daily, she strives to set a standard for others.
Embedding Sustainability in Organizational Culture: Rashmi actively works towards embedding sustainability into the fabric of the organizational culture. “We’ve initiated green initiatives and sustainability training for employees,” she adds. This involves encouraging sustainable practices among employees, such as reducing waste, promoting recycling, and supporting green initiatives.
Ethical Decision-Making: Ethical leadership is at the core of her decision-making process. “I ensure that our business decisions align with our ethical standards and contribute positively to society,” Rashmi states. This means considering the ethical implications of business decisions, being transparent in operations, and ensuring fairness and integrity in all dealings.
Advocating for Social Responsibility: Rashmi advocates for corporate social responsibility initiatives that align with their values and contribute positively to society. “We partner with NGOs and community organizations to make a tangible impact,” she mentions. This includes supporting community projects, engaging in philanthropy, and collaborating with non-profit organizations.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Sustainability in leadership also encompasses fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. “Diversity and inclusion are non-negotiable in our hiring and management practices,” Rashmi emphasizes. An inclusive culture enriches the workplace and drives innovation and creativity, essential for sustainable growth.
Encouraging Sustainable Innovation: Rashmi encourages innovation that is sustainable and considers long-term impacts. “We invest in sustainable tech solutions that benefit not just our company but also the environment and society,” she notes.
Personal Development and Well-being: Sustainable leadership involves paying attention to personal development and well-being. “I prioritize mental health and work-life balance, both for myself and my team,” Rashmi shares. This includes maintaining a healthy work-life balance, encouraging self-care, and supporting the personal growth of team members.
Integrating sustainability and ethical leadership into her style involves leading by example in sustainable practices, embedding sustainability in organizational culture, ethical decision-making, advocating for social responsibility, promoting diversity and inclusion, encouraging sustainable innovation, and focusing on personal development and well-being. “These principles guide my actions and decisions, ensuring that my leadership style is not only effective but also responsible and sustainable,” Rashmi concludes.
Navigating Global Challenges
In an increasingly globalized world, navigating international challenges and opportunities is critical to leadership. Rashmi says her experience in a global environment has taught her several strategies for effectively managing these challenges:
Cultural Sensitivity and Awareness: Understanding and respecting cultural differences is paramount globally. “I recall a project in Asia where cultural understanding was key to our success,” Rashmi shares. She prioritizes learning about the cultural norms, communication styles, and business practices of the countries and regions in which she operates. This cultural sensitivity helps build strong relationships, avoid misunderstandings, and ensure effective collaboration.
Adapting Leadership Style: Global leadership requires adaptability in leadership style. What works in one cultural context may not work in another. “Adapting my style to different cultural contexts has been a learning experience, enhancing my ability to lead diverse teams effectively,” Rashmi reflects. This adaptability has been key to successfully leading diverse international teams.
Building a Diverse Team: A team with diverse backgrounds and perspectives is a significant advantage in navigating global challenges. “Diversity in my team has brought a range of insights that have been invaluable in global strategy development,” she notes. A diverse team brings a wealth of knowledge about different markets and cultures, which is invaluable in developing strategies that are globally relevant and locally resonant.
Staying Informed on Global Trends: Keeping abreast of global economic, political, and social trends is crucial for making informed decisions. “Regularly engaging with global news and trends helps me anticipate market shifts and adapt our strategies accordingly,” Rashmi explains. This knowledge helps in anticipating market shifts and making strategic decisions.
Leveraging Technology for Global Connectivity: Technology is vital in managing global operations. “Using digital tools has enabled us to collaborate effectively across continents,” she says. Leveraging digital tools and platforms enables seamless communication and collaboration across different geographies. It also helps manage projects, track performance, and maintain connectivity with teams and clients worldwide.
Risk Management and Contingency Planning: Operating in a global environment involves navigating uncertainties and risks, such as political instability, economic fluctuations, and regulatory changes. “Robust risk management has been crucial in navigating these global uncertainties,” Rashmi adds. This involves regular risk assessments, scenario planning, and contingency plans.
Fostering Global Partnerships and Alliances: Building strategic partnerships and alliances with local and international organizations can be a powerful strategy in a global setting. “These partnerships have been instrumental in providing local insights and expanding our global reach,” she states.
Promoting Global Learning and Exchange: Another key strategy is encouraging global learning and knowledge exchange within the organization. “Creating opportunities for international collaboration and learning has enriched our organizational knowledge,” Rashmi highlights. This involves creating opportunities for employees to work on international projects, participate in global training programs, and exchange ideas with colleagues worldwide.
In brief, navigating global challenges involves cultural sensitivity and awareness, adapting leadership style, building a diverse team, staying informed on global trends, leveraging technology for connectivity, risk management and contingency planning, fostering global partnerships, and promoting global learning and exchange. “These strategies have enabled me to effectively lead in a global context and navigate the complexities of international business,” Rashmi concludes.
Professional Role Models: “In the professional sphere, I am continually inspired by leaders who blend innovative thinking with a strong ethical foundation.” Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, stands out as a significant role model for me. His transformation of Microsoft’s culture and his emphasis on empathy and innovation in leadership resonate deeply with my own values. “Witnessing his impact in leading a tech giant towards more inclusive and ethical practices has been particularly inspiring,” Rashmi says. “His approach to leadership, focusing on collaboration and long-term vision, has influenced how I view my role in driving change,” Rashmi adds.
Thought Leaders and Innovators: Rashmi is inspired by thought leaders and innovators who redefine the boundaries of possibility. “The visionary leadership of individuals like Sheryl Sandberg and her advocacy for women in the workplace is impactful especially on gender equality.” Similarly, the innovative spirit of Jeff Bezos and his relentless pursuit of customer-centric solutions exemplify the power of customer-focused innovation and strategic thinking.
Historical Figures: In terms of historical figures, Rashmi finds inspiration in contemporary leaders who have made significant impacts in their fields. “Figures like Malala Yousafzai, with her fearless advocacy for education and women’s rights, remind me of the power of resilience and standing up for one’s beliefs,” Rashmi reflects. Additionally, the leadership of Barack Obama, with his focus on hope and change, demonstrates the impact of positive leadership and the importance of inspiring others.
Family Influences: “On a more personal level, my mother has been a significant source of inspiration. Her strength, wisdom, and unconditional support have been the bedrock of my personal development. Her teachings on the value of hard work, humility, and compassion have been integral to my life.” “Her influence has been pivotal in shaping my character and leadership style,” Rashmi acknowledges.
Peers and Mentors: Rashmi says she’s also been inspired by her peers and mentors throughout her career. Their diverse perspectives, encouragement, and constructive feedback have been invaluable. “They have challenged me to grow and supported me through various career stages.” “This network of support has been crucial in my professional growth and decision-making,” she emphasizes.
Literary and Artistic Influences: Literature and art continue to influence her inspiration. Writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, with her compelling narratives on feminism and identity, have shaped Rashmi’s understanding of global issues and her role in addressing them. “The creativity and expression found in contemporary literature and art give me a broader perspective on life and leadership.” “These artistic influences have enriched my approach to problem-solving and innovation,” Rashmi adds.
Thus, Rashmi’s inspirational figures span a wide range, from contemporary business leaders and innovators to modern historical figures, family members, peers, mentors, and artists. Each has contributed to her understanding of leadership, innovation, resilience, and the impact one can have on the world. “They continue to inspire and guide me in both my professional and personal life,” Rashmi concludes.
