IWD Series #5 - Women in Leadership
4 March 2024
by Namita Santra
Director, Library and Learning Commons
Who was/is your role model and/or leadership mentor?
I have always admired Indra Nooyi, former chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of PepsiCo and the way she achieved success in her life. From her humble beginnings in India, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and a Master’s in Business Administration, she went on to earn another Master’s degree in Management from Yale School of Management. She subsequently worked at Boston Consulting Group, Motorola, Inc., Asea Brown Boveri (ABB) and in various positions at PepsiCo (soft-drink and snack-food giant). In 2006, she became the CEO of PepsiCo and was named the first South-Asian female CEO of a Fortune 500 company. During this time, she was ranked consistently among the world's 100 most powerful women by Forbes. She aggressively pursued international expansion, and under her leadership, PepsiCo’s revenues increased tremendously.
What are key qualities that have defined your leadership style or career journey?
I firmly believe in training and passing on knowledge and skills to staff to empower them and become the next leaders. I believe that to be a leader, one has to show the way and be a visionary, not just a manager. It is important to have passion for the work and provide staff with support, guidance, and inspiration.
What has been the most significant barrier in your career?
The expectations to deliver are high on all fronts, and balancing family, home and work expectations is not easy. Managing these expectations and finding time for my own pursuits has been a challenge.
How can women empower other women?
Whenever possible, support other women struggling to make a mark, financially or socially. Inspire with examples of success and achievements.
What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself?
The will to explore different paths, establish financial independence and build self-confidence.
What is your message to the next generation?
Research options carefully, be dedicated to what you do, empower yourself with future trends, and maintain integrity and honesty. Success will follow.