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“This is a Firm that doesn’t just give you responsibility — it gives you the space, the trust, and the belief to lead with instinct and integrity.” — Prashant Mehra, Chief Operating Officer & Chief People and Culture Officer
Some journeys are defined not by milestones, but by moments — moments that reveal what an organisation truly stands for.
Early in my time with the Firm, I experienced one such moment. A commitment made to me during my joining was honoured quietly and sincerely. It wasn’t just about the outcome — it was about the message it sent: this is a place where trust matters, where people are valued, and where promises are kept.
Years later, during the second wave of the pandemic, I had just stepped into the role of Chief Operating Officer when I was asked to decide on renewing our partners’ life insurance. The premium had surged. My instinct said yes — #PeopleFirst, always. Four days later, we lost a partner in a tragic accident. That decision became more than just a policy — it became a reminder of what we stand for. We don’t just talk about putting #PeopleFirst. We live it.
Over the years, I’ve come to believe that leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about acting with integrity, taking responsibility, and leading with heart. And when we do that — when we bring not just our minds, but our hearts to work — the Firm gives us every opportunity to make a difference. I’ve seen this firsthand. Whatever I was passionate about, the Firm gave me the space and trust to pursue. That’s rare. And it’s powerful. Because when you lead with purpose and bring your whole self to what you do, the impact becomes deeply personal.
That’s also where accountability comes in. Passion alone isn’t enough — it’s when we pair it with a sense of ownership that real alignment happens. When our personal purpose meets the Firm’s purpose, that’s when we create something truly meaningful.
My own purpose has evolved with time. It began with making an impact on my team, then my clients, then the Firm. Today, I want to contribute to the country. I believe the mid-market sector — where we operate — holds the key to India’s growth story. And if we can groom our people with purpose, we can shape not just a #VibrantBharat, but a better world.
That’s why this 90-year milestone feels especially meaningful. It’s more than a celebration of what we’ve achieved — it’s a moment to pause, reflect, and ask ourselves what we could have done better. It’s a chance to reconnect with our purpose, align with our Vision 2030, and reimagine how we move forward — with clarity, courage, and a renewed sense of responsibility.
To the next generation of leaders: when you face something new, don’t ask “why” — ask “why not?” That spirit of entrepreneurship, of stepping out of your comfort zone, is what got us here. It’s what will take us forward. Keep #PeopleAtTheCentre. Lead with passion. And even if you stumble, know that the impact you create will always outlast the moment.
Tap here to watch Prashant’s full story
Here’s to the leaders who lead with purpose — and the ones who ask, “Why not?”
