Davos Women CEOs Leadership

“Women CEOs at Davos: Strategies and Resilience“

A distinguished panel of women CEOs shared insights into their innovative strategies, leadership approaches, and resilience at the World Economic Forum 2024 in Davos. Dipali Goenka, CEO & MD of Welspun India, Debjani Ghosh, President of Nasscom, and Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Chairperson of Hindustan Zinc, engaged in a conversation with Kalli Purie, Executive Editor-in-Chief of the India Today Group, addressing challenges and driving growth.

One significant aspect discussed was work-life balance. Dipali Goenka emphasized the importance of creating more leaders to achieve balance. She highlighted the significance of sharing the vision, motivating others, and fostering a collective excitement for the vision across all levels of the organization.

Debjani Ghosh offered a nuanced perspective, stating that balance is practically impossible. Instead, she advocated for integrating both personal and professional lives. Ghosh shared a metaphorical approach using rubber and crystal balls, where priorities determine the nature of the ball. She stressed the need to decide priorities, communicate them clearly, and proceed without regrets or apologies.

The panel unanimously expressed the necessity for workplaces to provide childcare facilities. On the topic of menstrual leave, Ghosh emphasized the importance of flexible leave for both genders, allowing individuals to decide based on their needs. She highlighted the need for flexibility in policies and avoiding overdoing specific aspects like menstrual leave.

Priya Agarwal Hebbar discussed a “no questions asked” policy recently implemented in her organization, allowing employees to take a day off every month without providing reasons. This policy aims to prioritize flexibility beyond specific concerns like menstrual leave.

In conclusion, the panel collectively emphasized the gender-neutral nature of flexibility. Dipali Goenka advocated for an approach that transcends gender, promoting a work environment where flexibility is a shared value. The discussions shed light on the evolving dynamics of leadership, resilience, and fostering a balanced and inclusive workplace.

_{Repurposed article originally published in Business Today}