Head of Research and Knowledge, Dubai
Nationality: Indian
Education: MBA in Finance from the Indian Institute of Management, CFA
Q: You’ve been working at Strategy& for almost a year. How’s it going?
A: It’s very exciting and interesting. When I joined Strategy& in March 2022, I was given the mandate of transforming our research and knowledge function. Since then, I’ve been working on a number of initiatives to change our operating model and cost structure, building scale and reimagining how we deliver research and knowledge insights to our clients. Together with a core group of leaders, I’ve helped set the strategy and pushed the envelope to bring that strategy to life. Most recently, I’ve been working on setting up a cutting-edge knowledge management platform—learning about new technologies and how to create more personalized content, which will really add value for our clients.
Q: What were you doing before this, and how does it compare to what you’re doing now?
A: I’ve been building and managing research capabilities for more than 15 years, with previous roles at a number of other consulting firms including BCG, McKinsey & Company, and Deloitte. Now I’m looking forward to building on that experience, while enhancing my leadership and entrepreneurial skills.
My team and colleagues here at Strategy& are exceptional! Already, I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many talented people from diverse backgrounds and industry experience. And they’ve all really supported me in every step of this very difficult yet important transformation journey. Although my role now is very challenging and demanding, my team’s support and commitment throughout this change makes it totally worthwhile.
Q: How would you describe the people and culture at the firm?
A: This firm is a family away from family. The warm energy of the people around me is what keeps me motivated all the time. It also plays an important role in allowing me to achieve a work-life balance. Strategy& has been a positive experience so far, and the more time I spend here, the more I appreciate our ways of working together and of caring for our clients. Every day is memorable. And every day, the team’s willingness to take on new challenges inspires me to give my best.
Q: In your opinion, how does the research and knowledge function shape the way we deliver value to our clients?
A: Research and knowledge is at the heart of everything we do for clients. The analysis and insights generated by our team are crucial for the baselining and for the solutions we provide. Further, they are core to our firm’s own R&D, as we develop new knowledge that helps us build, refine, and manage our capabilities (e.g., assets, new tools, and proprietary databases). Our portfolio includes state-of-the-art research, asset-backed and rapid diagnostics, benchmarking, and workflow support. Our professionals have deep expertise and are able to apply a broad range of methodologies for specialized on-demand analyses, all of which adds value for our clients and helps them make a greater impact.
Q: What makes you happiest outside of the office?
A: I love to explore and discover the unique culture of different countries. So far, I have traveled to 46 countries. Apart from that, I enjoy painting, fashion blogging, and spending time with family and friends.
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