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Conquering the Chaos: Win in India, Win Everywhere
Conquering the Chaos: Win in India, Win Everywhere is, at its core, a governance manual presented as a market strategy guide, and it is stronger for that clarity of purpose.
The book's central argument is deceptively simple: India is not merely a market to enter, but a crucible in which organisational character is tested and, if the company endures, genuinely forged. The author outlines five principles that distinguish winners from also-rans. Among these, the most demanding for any board or governance committee is the idea of empowered local leadership.
“India is a crucible. It challenges leaders, stretches organisations, and tests strategies to the limit. Those who succeed emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to lead globally.”
For corporate directors and governance professionals, the discussion on the “Midway Trap” is particularly sobering. Companies that prioritise margin protection, rigidly replicate global operating models, and wait for conditions to stabilise often find themselves confined to premium niches, unable to access the middle market that drives scale in India. Mr. Venkatesan's diagnosis extends beyond strategy into governance. Treating an India subsidiary as a compliance requirement rather than a strategic priority reflects a deeper boardroom failure.
The book is indispensable for boards overseeing India operations, nomination committees evaluating leadership mandates, and CEOs determining whether their India strategy is substantive or merely symbolic. Mr. Venkatesan makes a compelling governance case for engaging with India with depth and intent.
Back to HomeAuthor
Ravi Venkatesan
He is the Founder of the Global Alliance for Mass Entrepreneurship and a Venture Partner at Unitus Ventures. Previously, he has served as Chairman of Microsoft India, Chairman of the Board of Bank of Baroda, and Co-Chairman of Infosys. He is currently the UNICEF Special Representative for Young People and Innovation.
Owned by: Institute of Directors, India
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