The Most Influential Personality to Follow in 2024 (3)

1. www.insightssuccess.in Vol. 11 Issue 05 2024 The Art of The Art of Leadership Leadership Lessons from the Lessons from the Most Successful Most Successful Leaders Leaders Mayannk Jain, Chief Financial Of?icer (CFO) Highway Industries – Munjal Group An In?luential Finance Leader’s Story of Resilience and Inspiration

3. Leadership indispensable to each other. learning and are

4. Editor’s Note MAYANNK JAIN ‒ AN EMBODIMENT OF GLOBAL INDIAN BUSINESS LEADERSHIP I n the realm of financial leadership, Mayannk Jain, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Highway Industries Limited, stands out as a trailblazer. As a pivotal leader in the Munjal Group, a globally recognized conglomerate, Mayannk embodies strategic vision, operational excellence, and financial acumen. His leadership has not only driven fiscal stability but also positioned Highway Industries Limited as a beacon of innovation in the highly competitive manufacturing sector. Mayannk's career is a perfect blend of deep industry knowledge and an unwavering commitment to transformation. An ability to chart complex financial landscapes and foster sustainable growth has earned him the reputation of being one of the most influential personalities to follow in 2024. Through Highway Industries, he has strengthened operational efficiencies and robust revenue growth with financial strategies aligned to Munjal Group's objectives. The marked impetus of Mayannk has generally been the integration of technology into financial operations. Using data-driven decision-making frameworks and state-of-the-art financial technologies, he has increased transparency, reduced inefficiencies, and ensured compliance with evolving global standards. His efforts have also fostered a culture of accountability, helping teams shine while maintaining a customer-centric approach.

5. ONLY ONE.‘‘ A READER LIVES A THOUSAND LIVES BEFORE HE DIES . . . THE MAN WHO NEVER READS LIVES So, Mayannk serves as a thought leader and mentor, inspiring the next generation of finance professionals with his progressive vision. He advocates for sustainability-driven growth wherein financial strategies have social and environmental responsibilities aligned within it-a value that rings deep in Munjal Group's heritage. As Mayannk Jain continues defining the role of a CFO in such a dynamic world economy, his contributions to Highway Industries and the larger corporate world set trends for up-and-coming leaders. Forward-thinking strategies combined with steadfast dedication make this a personality worth following in 2024 and beyond. In this exclusive edition, Insights Success India honours Mayannk Jain as the ‘Most Influential Personality to Follow in 2024,’ so that you can gain the deep insights on how today’s global leaders are leading the charge when it comes to inspirational businesspersonship.

6. www.insightssuccess.in Editor-in-Chief Pooja M. Bansal Managing Editor Gaurav PR Wankhade Assisting Editor Prajakta Zurale sales@insightssuccess.in NOV, 2024 Visualizer Sandeep Tikode Art & Design Director Rahul Shinde Art & Design Editor Sarita Bhagat Sr. Graphic Designer Nagaraj Patil Corporate Offices: Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Survey No.133/134, Brand Square, Office No. 512, Kunjir Chowk, Pimple Saudagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411027 Phone - India: +91 8793630422/24 Email: info@insightssuccess.in For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.in Vice President Swapnali Vasaikar Asst. Vice President Asst. Manger Pratiksha Jagtap Team Lead Ashwini Kamble Sr. BDE Tejaswini Whaval Nitin Patil Technical Head Prachi Mokashi Technical Specialist Rajeshwari Avhad Insights Success Media Tech LLC 555 Metro Place North, Suite 100, Dublin, OH 43017, United States Phone - (614)-602-1754 Email: info@insightssuccess.com For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.com Digital Marketing Manager Sager Lahigade SME-SMO Executive Prashant Rathod Circulation Manager Tanaji Fartade 250/- https://twitter.com/insightssuccess Follow us on : www.facebook.com/insightssuccess/ We are also available on Copyright © 2024 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success. Printed and Published by Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd. RNI NUMBER: MAHENG/2018/75953

7. Mayannk Jain is recognized by Insights Success as for his awe-inspiring leadership, guiding the organization successfully and making outstanding contribution to the Indian and global business sector. 2024 Pooja M. Bansal Editor-in-Chief Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd.

8. F e a t u r i n g Mayannk Jain, Chief Financial Of?icer (CFO) Highway Industries – Munjal Group

9. An In?luential Finance Leader’s Story of Resilience and Inspiration Growing up, I witnessed the struggles of those around me, which fueled my desire to create a better future not only for myself but also for my community.

10. I n a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, hope is often the beacon that guides individuals toward their dreams. It inspires people to persevere through adversity and believe in their potential. Mayannk Jain embodies this spirit of hope, having navigated the ups and downs of life with unwavering determination. Growing up, he witnessed the struggles of those around him, which fueled his desire to create a better future not only for himself but also for his community. but also environmentally conscious, maintaining pollution- free, clean, and green operations. Highway Industries has grown significantly under Umesh's leadership. The company produces components such as crankshafts, arm kick assemblies, and steering shafts, which are used by some of the most prestigious automobile manufacturers worldwide, including General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Porsche. Japanese automakers such as Toyota, Honda, and Nissan also rely on Highway’s products. Through long-term agreements with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the USA, Canada, Mexico, and Europe, Umesh has expanded the company’s global footprint. Today, Mayannk is a dynamic and seasoned C-suite executive whose expertise in financial leadership makes him one of the most influential figures to follow. Based in Gurgaon, India, with a rich career spanning more than two decades, Mayannk has made his mark across top global corporations, including the Big Four accounting firms. His journey from managing financial transactions to shaping high-level business strategies places him at the forefront of modern financial leadership, with a focus on operational excellence, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and corporate development. Umesh Munjal’s success in the business world is marked by numerous accolades. He was recognized at the Transform- ing India Conclave by Think Media Inc. for his outstand- ing contributions to corporate growth and social transfor- mation. Under his leadership, Highway Industries has received several prestigious awards, including the ACMA Atmanirbhar Excellence Award 2021 (Gold for Corpo- rate Level Excellence in Export), the CII National Kaizen Competition awards, and the CICU National Kaizen Competition honours. Being a grounded leader, Mayannk credits all his success to divinity and “In my gratitude, I would like to thank God and my beloved Guruji, whose blessings have always been the source of all my achievements.” Umesh Munjal - Mayannk's Pillar of Success Umesh Munjal, born on September 8, 1951, hails from a family deeply rooted in business and philanthropy. He completed his education at St. Joseph's School, Dehradun, and The Punjab Public School, Nabha, before graduating from Punjab University, Chandigarh. As the son of the renowned industrialist and devout Arya Samaj leader, Mr. Satyanand Munjal, Umesh grew up with strong values of hard work, integrity, and social responsibility. His father was the President of the All India Arya Samaj Organization and Vice President of the DAV Foundation, and Umesh has continued this legacy of excellence and commitment. A core aspect of my leadership is the commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence. In 1974, Umesh joined his family business, focusing on manufacturing bicycle and auto components. His leadership journey began with the management of Highway Industries Limited, a unit of the Hero Group. Since taking over as Managing Director, he has single-handedly transformed the company into a leading manufacturer of auto components. Under his guidance, Highway Industries now operates three units in Ludhiana, one in Pune and one near Gurgaon, employing over 4,200 workers. His leader- ship has ensured that these facilities are not only efficient

11. The Most Influential Personality to Follow in 2024 There are several rewards and recognitions won under Umesh’s guidance: - • CICU Poke-Yoke Kaizen Competition, 2021: -GOLD One Time, SILVER Award (2times). • CICU National Kaizen Competition, 2023: - Silver Award. CII 5th National Kaizen Circle Competition, 2022: - 1st Runner Up. 13th Edition of CII National 3M Competition, 2022: - SILVER Award in MUDA Category. ACMA Atmanirbhar Excellence Awards 2021 Winner: - GOLD Award for Corporate Level- Excellence in Export. ACMA 2nd National Kaizen Competition, 2021: - 2nd Position. 12th CII National Poka Yoke 2023 (2 Gold Awards). CICU 6th Poke-Yoke Kaizen Competition, 2021: - GOLD Award. CICU 6th Poke-Yoke Kaizen Competition, 2021: - SILVER Award. CICU 13th National Kaizen Competition, 2021: - Silver Award. CICU 6th Poke-Yoke Kaizen Competition, 2021: - Bronze Award (2 times). Beyond his business acumen, Umesh’s deep sense of social responsibility stands as one of his most defining qualities. Having inherited the philanthropic spirit of his father, Umesh is deeply committed to giving back to society. He is actively involved in managing schools, cultural organiza- tions, and several industrial bodies, including CII, ACMA, and CICU. His charitable work extends to numerous causes, such as donating to the Prime Minister Relief Fund, Dayanand Medical Hospital & College, and Ek Prayaas—an institute for children with special needs. • • • • • • One of Umesh’s most impactful contributions has been the adoption and maintenance of a government school in Khakat Kalan, where he developed a playground and park for the children. His dedication to youth development is further evidenced by his donation of 1,000 sports kits to various youth clubs in Punjab, aimed at keeping young people away from drugs and encouraging grassroots sports initiatives. Here are a few donations made by him in the last year: • • •

13. Highway Industries, led by Mayannk, has soared to new heights, particularly in the areas of budgeting, working capital optimization, and cost reduction, and boasting a current turnover of over ₹1200 crores while setting its sights on reaching ₹2000 crores by 2028. • • • Prime minister relief fund. Dayanand Medical Hospital & Collage. Ek Prayaas - An Institute for Children with Special Needs. Noble Foundation. Adopted a Government school at Khakat Kalan and maintained its Playground and Park. He also generously donated 1000 sports kits to various youth organizations or youth clubs in Punjab to keep the youth away from drugs and to be a catalyst in bringing about a revolution in sports at the grassroots level. He has also donated generously to the solar system, which is being installed near the Police station. He has also donated an Electric Furnace for Cremation during the Corona period. financial planning and analysis to investor relations, fundraising, and corporate development. As a Chartered Accountant, Mayannk brings with him an in-depth knowl- edge of business functions, corporate finance, and the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions. His strategic mindset is key to his ability to drive growth, sustainability, and profitability for the organizations he leads. • • • Currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at Highway Industries Limited, a prominent arm of the Munjal Group, Mayannk has been instrumental in leading financial and operational improvements for the company. Highway Industries, led by Mayannk, has soared to new heights, particularly in the areas of budgeting, working capital optimization, and cost reduction, and boasting a current turnover of over ₹1200 crores while setting its sights on reaching ₹2000 crores by 2028. He has also overseen important corporate initiatives such as pre-IPO readiness assessments, investor discussions, and the strengthening of internal controls and ERP systems. His contributions to the financial stability and operational efficiency of the company are a testament to his leadership skills and business acumen. • • Umesh has also been instrumental in supporting sustainable development initiatives. He donated generously for the installation of a solar system at a nearby police station and provided an electric furnace for cremations during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating his compassion and foresight in addressing critical community needs. Umesh’s journey is a remarkable story of business success intertwined with a deep sense of social responsibility. His leadership of Highway Industries has not only contributed to the economic growth of the region but also to the well- being of the communities he serves. Through his philan- thropy and business achievements, Umesh Munjal contin- ues to be a pillar of success and an inspiration to future generations. One of Mayannk's core strengths is his ability to partner effectively with senior leadership teams and C-suite executives. Throughout his career, he has been a trusted advisor on high-stakes financial decisions, business modelling, and risk assessments. His extensive experience in working across industries like auto components, steel, IT services, and distressed assets under India’s Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) has enabled him to understand the nuances of different business environments. This cross- functional expertise makes Mayannk not just a financial expert but also a strategic business leader who can steer companies through complex challenges and opportunities. A Multifaceted Leader in Finance Mayannk’s career is rooted in his comprehensive under- standing of financial management, which extends from

15. On the Highway of Success The company’s continued success is evident in the ever- increasing business inquiries it receives from renowned automobile and engineering industries around the globe. This growing interest underscores the confidence that clients and partners have in Highway Industries' capabilities and its unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality products and services. Led by the dynamic Director Duo Amol Munjal and Ankur Munjal, Highway Industries Limited, established in 1971, has travelled a remarkable journey toward success. Starting as a modest venture, it has grown into a dynamic and diversified company with a focus on cold and hot forging and machining. Today, Highway Industries operates five state-of-the-art units: three in Ludhiana, one in Pune, Maharashtra, and another near Gurgaon. With a dedicated workforce of over 4,200 employees and an impressive annual turnover of USD 140 million, the company stands as a leading player in the automotive and engineering industries. By embracing innovation and maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and quality, Highway Industries Limited is paving the way for continued growth and success. Its journey from a single unit to a global player is a testament to the company’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the automotive and engineering sectors. As Highway Industries continues to expand its global footprint, it remains committed to upholding its legacy of excellence while shaping the future of the industries it serves. The growth and expansion of Highway Industries have been driven by a commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability. The company has earned a series of certifica- tions that reflect its dedication to excellence across various domains. It is certified for the Energy Management System ISO 50001:2018, Environment Management System Standard ISO-14001:2015, Occupational Health and Safety Management System standard OHSAS 45001:2018, ISO 27001:2013 for information security, and ISO 14064 for greenhouse gas emissions and removals, which is currently under implementation. These certifications demonstrate the company’s responsibility toward energy efficiency, environmental preservation, and the well-being of its employees. A Proven Track Record in Deal Advisory and M&A Mayannk’s deep involvement in M&A and private equity transactions has shaped his reputation as a finance professional with a unique ability to drive successful outcomes in high-stakes deals. His tenure at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) as a Business Controller, FP&A Leader, and Director of Deal Advisory provided him with an excellent platform to lead and manage key transac- tions for global brands. During this time, Mayannk was responsible for overseeing buy-side and sell-side due diligence, working closely with strategic and private equity clients to navigate mergers, acquisitions, and corporate carve-outs. Equipped with cutting-edge forging presses, modern machinery, and advanced testing equipment, Highway Industries is capable of producing components for two- wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers. Its technical expertise allows the company to manufacture a wide range of products, including crankshafts, arm kick assemblies, connecting rods, flanges, and steering shafts. Additional products such as bells, tulips, midship tubes, shafts, rotors, and spline yokes are also a part of its comprehensive portfolio. One of his notable achievements at PwC includes his role as a finance business partner during the global COVID-19 pandemic, where he successfully led domestic and overseas transactions under challenging market conditions. He was also instrumental in the acquisition of India operations for global companies like Volvo IT, the strategic acquisition of John Players by Reliance Retail, and the equity investment in Zomato by Alipay. His work on the cross-border acquisition of a US-based billet manufacturer for ALBA, one of the largest aluminium smelters in the GCC, further highlights his expertise in international transactions. Highway Industries serves an impressive array of clients, both domestically and internationally. Domestically, its major customers include renowned names such as Hero MotoCorp Ltd., International Tractors Ltd., LG Electronics India Ltd., and Sona Koyo Steering Co. Ltd. The company’s reputation extends beyond India, with exports to Canada, the USA, and Europe. Overseas clients include prestigious organizations such as ArcelorMittal Tubular Products (Canada), ZF Steering Systems LLC, and Knorr-Bremse Systèmes, to name a few. Mayannk’s work in deal advisory goes beyond traditional M&A to include restructuring distressed assets, a skill that has proved invaluable in complex financial environments. He has led numerous deals under IBC regulations, includ- ing high-profile clients like Arcelor Mittal and Motherson Sumi.

16. The Origin of an Oracle His ability to evaluate distressed assets, develop turnaround strategies, and advise on acquisitions has been a critical factor in his success in this field. Moreover, Mayannk’s proficiency in vendor due diligence (VDD), financial modelling, and business analysis have consistently resulted in optimized outcomes for his clients and stakeholders. Mayannk's journey didn't just begin with a passion for technology but was deeply rooted in his formative years at Modern School Barakhamba Road, New Delhi. His solid academic foundation extended through Symbiosis College of Arts & Commerce, Pune, where he was an Executive Body Member of AIESEC Pune, fostering his leadership abilities early on. Exposure to diverse cultures through mentorships at PwC and KPMG India, UK, and Bahrain played a pivotal role in shaping his core values of mutual respect and inclusivity. His global exposure in the UK and GCC further refined his worldview, complementing his natural curiosity and technological aptitude. Driving Continuous Improvement and Innovation A core aspect of Mayannk’s leadership is his commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence. At Highway Industries, he implemented key cost-reduction strategies and developed innovative solutions for improving plant-wise profitability, cost allocation, and product costing. His turnaround strategy for low-margin or loss-making plants has been particularly impactful, driving improved financial performance across multiple operational units. During his college years, Mayannk immersed himself in technology, often burning the midnight oil troubleshooting and brainstorming innovations. After graduating with honors, his professional journey in tech began with challenges. But his resilience and determination helped him overcome doubts and thrive, building a career defined by hope, hard work, and a passion for inclusivity in diversity. Mayannk’s approach to finance is not only about numbers but also about leveraging data-driven insights to inform strategic decision-making. He has consistently demon- strated his ability to analyze complex financial data and translate it into actionable strategies that contribute to business growth. This was evident during his time at PwC, where he introduced new processes to control working capital, reducing lock-in periods by 30 days and playing an integral role in increasing revenues and net margins. Overcoming Challenges The early years of Mayannk’s career were marked by steep learning curves. He was tasked with complex projects that required him to adapt quickly and think critically. There were times when he felt overwhelmed, battling self-doubt and the fear of failure. One particular project tested his limits: he was leading a team responsible for developing a software solution for a high-profile client. The stakes were high, and any misstep could jeopardize not only the project but also the company’s reputation. His analytical prowess is complemented by his ability to lead cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders. As a senior negotiator and business partner, Mayannk has successfully handled difficult conversations, balanced conflicting priorities, and contributed to the development of long-term business plans. His tact and diplomacy, combined with his strong financial acumen, make him a trusted advisor in any boardroom. As the deadline approached, unexpected technical issues arose, and tensions ran high among the team members. Mayannk realized that he needed to step up as a leader. Drawing from his experiences, he initiated open discus- sions, encouraging his team to share their concerns and brainstorm solutions collaboratively. This approach fostered a sense of camaraderie and resilience among the group, allowing them to tackle the challenges head-on. Together, they worked long hours, fueled by determination and a shared goal. In the end, they delivered a successful project, earning accolades from both the client and upper manage- ment. This experience taught Mayannk the importance of teamwork and effective communication in overcoming challenges. My vision for the future is centred around driving sustainable growth, fostering innovation, and strengthening ?inancial governance in the companies I lead.

17. Professional Life Hope for the Future As Mayannk continued to excel in his career, he embraced opportunities for growth. He took on various roles within the company, each offering new challenges and responsibil- ities. His dedication and innovative thinking caught the attention of senior management, leading to promotions and recognition in the industry. Mayannk became known for his ability to navigate complex problems and implement effective solutions, earning respect from his peers and mentors. As he progressed in his career, Mayannk began to envision a future where technology could address some of society’s most pressing challenges. He became passionate about using his skills to make a positive impact, particularly in areas like education and healthcare. He started exploring ways to leverage technology to create solutions that would empower underserved communities. Mayannk's vision was to develop accessible educational tools that could reach students in remote areas, providing them with resources and opportunities that they otherwise might not have. He also sought to explore how technology could enhance healthcare delivery, particularly in rural regions where access to medical services was limited. His commitment to innovation and social impact became the driving force behind his work. Despite his professional success, Mayannk never lost sight of the values instilled in him during his upbringing. He remained committed to giving back to the community that had shaped him. He volunteered his time to mentor young students interested in technology, sharing his knowledge and experiences to inspire the next generation. Mayannk understood that the path to success is not just about personal achievement; it’s also about lifting others along the way.

18. Advice for Others and corporate finance, and his unwavering commitment to operational excellence set him apart as a finance leader to follow in 2024. Reflecting on his journey, Mayannk offers valuable advice to those embarking on their own paths. He emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability. “There will be challenges,” he says, “but it’s how you respond to them that defines your journey. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and keep pushing forward.” Mayannk’s vision for the future is centred around driving sustainable growth, fostering innovation, and strengthening financial governance in the companies he leads. His experience across industries and geographies positions him as a thought leader who can provide invaluable insights into the future of corporate finance, private equity, and strategic business development. Mayannk's passion for fostering a diverse and inclusive team is evident in his commitment to working with individuals from diverse cultures, including those from small towns. He encourages others to seek mentorship and build strong networks, understanding that collaboration and support are crucial in any profession. As we move into the future, Mayannk Jain’s influence will continue to grow, particularly as businesses seek strong financial leadership to navigate an uncertain global economy. His combination of financial expertise, strategic foresight, and leadership skills make him an ideal role model for aspiring finance professionals and a key figure to watch in the coming year. Mayannk also advocates for the importance of giving back. He believes that success is not solely measured by personal achievements, but by the positive impact, one can have on others. “Find ways to lift others as you climb,” he advises. “Whether it’s through mentoring, volunteering, or sharing your knowledge, make it a part of your journey.” For more information, please connect with Mayannk via email at mayank2000@gmail.com or call him @+919810274702/9999111057. Looking Ahead: Why Mayannk Jain is One to Watch in 2024? In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, leaders like Mayannk are crucial to navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. His track record of delivering results in high-pressure situations, his expertise in M&A

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20. Making a Business Through Difference S ocial entrepreneurship is an emerging force for good in this world. While traditional entrepreneurs optimize profits above all, the social entrepreneur focuses primarily on solving pressing social, environmental, or cultural problems via entrepreneurial approaches. These pioneering leaders fuse a passion for social impact with the principles of entrepreneurship to build ventures that change the game for financial sustainability purposes. trying to correct environmental degradation with new sustainable business models. Those companies that concentrate on renewable sources of energy, waste reduction, and ethical sourcing challenge traditional industries while proving that profitability can indeed go together with a sustainable business. For example, Patagonia sustains activism and responsible manufacturing and shows that businesses can thrive together with its portfolio in the front row while keeping the issues of environmental and social impact at centre stage. The Core of Social Entrepreneurship Characteristics of Social Entrepreneurship At the heart of social entrepreneurship lies the promise that firms can and should do much more than just maximise profits and generate machines. They can address issues at the systemic levels of poverty, inequality, lack of access to healthcare, or environmental degradation. Solutions are what a social entrepreneur builds, and these solutions lead to bettering lives and communities. Their ventures have a deep sense of purpose which makes their efforts directed towards good from the public and favourable to marginalized populations. What uniquely characterizes social entrepreneurship is the ability to innovate scalable, sustainable solutions. They powerfully use new technologies: such as digital platforms. For example, companies offering affordable education or healthcare solutions via mobile applications have revolutionized access to these important services in remote or underserved areas. Challenges in Front of Social Entrepreneurs One of the best examples of social entrepreneurship is the mushrooming of microfinance institutions that give small loans to entrepreneurs in developing countries deprived of conventional banking systems. Microfinance programs, providing financial services to the lowest stratum of the economic scale, have been instrumental in elevating millions of people from this group out of poverty through self- employment and job creation, with them channelling their own contribution to the economy in terms of benefits generated. The challenges for social entrepreneurs are considerable: they have to balance, within the same business model, financial sustainability with social impact. Funding ventures whose main aim is not necessarily profit but rather the creation of social good is challenging. But this challenge has been increasingly alleviated by the surge in impact investing, wherein investors seek to generate social or environmental impact alongside their financial returns. Social entrepreneurs are, in the end, proving that business can indeed be a very effective agent of change. In the hands of innovators and creative thinkers, they are shaping industries and altering lives, one solution at a time. Yet another example, but powerfully indicative of the current and ongoing trend, are fast-growing companies that are 18 | www.insightssuccess.in 18 | Nov, 2024

21. Social Entrepreneurs

22. Lessons Successful Leaders Most from the L eadership is the ability to make visions a reality. It also involves providing power to others in contributing toward a common goal. While true leadership goes beyond what mere authority can be, inspiring the best from people, regardless of how difficult it is, distinguished leaders who inspire differ from seasoned business moguls and revolutionists. Such leaders represent qualities and practices that separate them. Clear Vision and Direction The rock on which great leadership is founded is always a clear vision. Good leaders know where they're headed and what they're trying to get done. Think Steve Jobs. His visionary leadership at Apple had nothing to do with producing computers only, but he wanted to change the way people live, work, and communicate. His vision was for innovation, simplicity, and consumer experience, and he made his entire team share this vision. What did Jobs teach us? He became one example that leaders must hold goals steady yet flexible in approach. By giving a great sense of purpose, they inspire others to look for a common objective. Empowering Others The biggest leadership lesson is the principle of empowering others. Amazing leaders don't just manage work; they grow talent and leave all those talents on your side to deliver the miracle they can. Sheryl Sandberg, former COO Facebook has always been recognized to have a very practical approach on the empowerment of employees. She encouraged people to "lean in" and push 20 | www.insightssuccess.in 20 | Nov, 2024

23. The Art of Leadership 21 | www.insightssuccess.in 21 | Nov, 2024

24. Communication and Active Listening beyond their comfort levels, fostering an environment in which people grew professionally and personally. Empowering leaders engender trust and respect, providing motivation to assume ownership of roles and contribute toward the success of an organization. Effective leadership depends more on communication. Leadership is good communication. Good leaders are effective communicators, who bring about people's alignment with the organization's goals. But they don't only talk- they listen actively. One of the most famous "team of rivals" leaders was former US President Abraham Lincoln. He hired people from different backgrounds with diversified perspectives and listened actively to them. This openness led him to lead with wisdom and empathy as he united the nation at one of its most challenged periods. Active listening from leaders can indeed build relationships, respect, and trust, key factors in any thriving institution. Adaptability and Learning In this changing world we live in, adaptability is the hallmark of good leadership. All leaders, in fact, who can adapt to change and continuously improve will survive the test of time. Take, for example, Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo, who exhibits this characteristic with her "Performance with Purpose" mantra. PepsiCo, seeing how markets shifted to healthier alternatives, needed a transformation-the outcome was to create a focus on healthy products but still keeping its position in the competition. Her adaptive style in leadership underlined staying relevant within their domain and proactively changing due to changes from their clients' behavior. The lesson here is just that: leaders who have their openness to learning inspire others to grow along with them. Resilience Amid Adversity Leadership has many tracks, thick with agony and failure. Resilience is coming back, learning, and moving forward from failures. Out of extreme poverty, sexual abuse, and professional setbacks, Oprah Winfrey rose to a height that makes her one of the most influential media moguls in the world. Even in adverse situations, she not only used her experiences as fuel for success but also made it a catalyst for inspiring others. Leaders, who are resilient, survive adversity and overcome it with strength and determination, encouraging the rest of their teams to do the same. Emotional Intelligence and Empathy Leadership requires a good understanding of emotions and emotional management. Leaders who use their emotional intelligence lead people better to communicate, collaborate, and trust. The prime example of this comes from Satya Nadella, the head of Microsoft, who changed the company's culture by empathy and inclusiveness. Through empathy, Nadella regained the sense of purpose back into the workers at Microsoft, and the innovation that followed in collaboration was very effective. Emotionally intelligent leaders can connect with people, care about their team, and give them a sense of belonging, which in turn achieves an extremely functional team. Leadership as an Evolving Art The art of leadership is dynamic and multifaceted and cuts across the qualities ranging from vision to empathy, flexibility, ethical grounding, good communication, and resilience. Successful leaders understand that leadership is not a destination but a journey of continuous learning and growth. In following the example of an iconic leader, one seeks to develop the set of skills which can inspire, influence, and establish a lasting change. Commitment to Ethical Leadership Good leaders do not compromise on ethics. They know how long it takes to rebuild trust once it has been broken. Warren Buffett, one of the world's most respected investors, built his career on the principles of honesty and transparency. The commitment to integrity made Warren Buffett a trusted figure not only among the investors but also by peers. Decisions taken based on the principles of ethics depict that for long-term success, there lies a basis of trust and integrity in leadership like that of Warren Buffett. Ethical leadership brings loyalty and respect, two essential ingredients for sustainable success. 22 | www.insightssuccess.in 22 | Nov, 2024

26. Success is the progressive realization of a worthy goal or ideal. - Earl Nightingale

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