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From Business Consulting to Boardrooms - A Story of Growth and Impact
It all began with a decision that many around me deemed unconventional. In a world that revered medicine, finance, law, and engineering, I chose to pursue a career in Catering, Nutrition and Hotel Management - a profession often seen as 'lighter' and less 'serious' in the eyes of some. Soon, I realized that I could go above and beyond, and though in my early professional years I worked very hard, as are the demands of the profession, but I also built in myself work ethics that stood the test of time. I was smart, driven, and full of ambition, but in the early years of my career, the world seemed to want to push me into rather mundane, straight-line experiences that I did not enjoy. I sought challenges and always wanted to change the status quo.
Then on it was a series of exploring interesting facets of consulting as I got an assignment where I could explore business consulting with a global consulting company, delivering to one of the finest global hotel chain. My role introduced me to the world of business and to the world of strategy. I was of the view that you can't sacrifice your life at the altar of a profession, but I wanted a balance in life, with a happy home and children. I learned early on the importance of networking, of building relationships, and of aligning myself with mentors who could guide me, challenge me, and offer the insight I needed to progress.
However, as the years went by, I started to feel the need for more - more influence, more impact, and more intellectual challenge. “If I can help companies run projects, why not help companies shape their future?” I thought to myself. In the interim I had explored many areas of communication, sales & marketing, PR, and had moved on to quality consulting, and to the business side of quality consulting. I had realized that success in this world was a lot about understanding human behaviours as much as it was about understanding the ever changing business landscape.
The tipping point came during an encounter with a senior leader at an industry conference. They were talking about new trends in human resources and he casually said, “You really should move to the Organization Development areas as these lie on the strategic side. It's a whole different ball game, and you have the competence to lead it.” The comment showed me the direction I was looking for from being a part of a business consulting journey, to business side of quality consulting, to figuring human behaviour, the Organization Development seemed to tie it all together. If I truly wanted to evolve into a person who will earn the seat on the table, it was time to push beyond what others expected of me, to challenge my own boundaries.
Fortunately, I secured an assignment with a global firm, being part of the global leadership consulting team. That gave me the projects that truly allowed me to navigate complex business challenges, grasp financial models or organizational strategies and proved to me that I had what it took to thrive. There were so many instances to deep dive into the organizational blueprint for growth and suggest strategies that could bring the best of performance from leadership teams. Many times, I could suggest new approaches, one that involved agility and an innovative approach that the company may never have considered before.
Somewhere along the way, I wanted to influence corporate governance and leave behind a legacy of ethical decision-making and long-term strategy. It was then that I made my next pivot: corporate governance. The leap from management consulting to becoming an independent director on the boards of listed companies was a natural, yet formidable transition. As I stepped into the world of governance, I found myself in a completely different environment, one where the decisions made in the boardroom could impact entire industries and economies. The stakes were high.
So that I could bring meaningful value to the companies whose Boards I will be on. I signed up for key courses covering all aspects of corporate governance, to equip myself with the knowledge required. With my experience in consulting, I could offer a fresh perspective on the company's strategic vision. I do not hesitate to be vocal in meetings, often challenging the status quo and pushing for a more dynamic approach to growth. My focus is on financial success but also on sustainability, risk management, and corporate ethics. I am also an advocate for diversity on boards, ensuring that there is a balance of perspectives at the decision-making table.
Today, apart from serving on multiple boards of corporates, I am also on foundation's boards where I advocate long-term sustainable growth, an inclusive corporate culture, and further their interest and goals.
As I stepped into the world of governance, I found myself in a completely different environment, one where the decisions made in the boardroom could impact entire industries and economies. The stakes were high.
For me, my journey is not just the titles or the recognition, it is knowing that my story can inspire others, especially women, to step outside traditional boundaries and lead with integrity, intelligence, and courage.
My experience in senior management had provided invaluable insights into the challenges faced by companies, but I realized that being an independent director also required a fresh mindset. I spent years learning the intricacies of corporate governance, understanding the regulatory frameworks, the responsibilities of a director, and how to offer value to boards without getting entangled in the operational details.
My role is about guiding and mentoring, making decisions that align with the greater good, and create an enduring legacy of ethical leadership.
I feel an immense sense of purpose, knowing that the decisions taken at the board are shaping not just the future of organizations, but the broader business landscape. My role is about guiding and mentoring, making decisions that align with the greater good, and create an enduring legacy of ethical leadership. Alongside, I feel I remain grounded in the same values that had carried me through my career, perseverance, resilience, integrity, and a relentless commitment to breaking barriers.
Back to HomeAuthor
Ms. Nina Chatrath
Independent Director on Multiple Boards
Leadership & Business Consultant
With over three decades in business and consulting, Ms. Nina Chatrath is a Partner at DHR Global, specializing in leadership impact, CEO development, and succession planning. A trusted advisor in unlocking organizational capabilities, she also serves as an Independent Director on boards including Oriental Hotels (Taj Group), Dwarikesh Sugar, VisionSpring Foundation, and Morarka Finance.
Owned by: Institute of Directors, India
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the articles/ stories are the personal opinions of the author. IOD/ Editor is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information in those articles. The information, facts or opinions expressed in the articles/ speeches do not reflect the views of IOD/ Editor and IOD/ Editor does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
