Roshni Nadar :- In the dynamic landscape of the Indian IT industry, Roshni Nadar Malhotra stands out as a trailblazer in leadership. Born in 1980/81, Roshni is not just the chairperson of HCL Technologies but also a visionary philanthropist, making her mark as the first woman to helm a listed IT company in India.
Roshni Nadar’s Early Life and Educational Journey
Roshni’s journey begins in Delhi, where she grew up under the guidance of her illustrious parents, Shiv Nadar and Kiran Nadar. Her formative years at Vasant Valley School laid the foundation for a future marked by resilience and purpose.
Choosing a unique path, Roshni pursued a degree in Communication at Northwestern University, with a focus on Radio/TV/Film. Later, she honed her business acumen with an MBA from the prestigious Kellogg School of Management.
Career Ascent at HCL
Before joining HCL, Roshni Nadar explored various roles as a producer, showcasing her diverse skill set. However, it was at HCL that her ascent to leadership began. Within a year, she rose to the position of executive director and CEO of HCL Corporation.
Following in her father’s footsteps, she eventually assumed the role of chairperson at HCL Technologies, steering the company toward new horizons.
Humanitarian Initiatives
Roshni’s commitment to social impact predates her leadership role. As a trustee of the Shiv Nadar Foundation, she played a pivotal role in initiatives like the Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering.
Beyond education, Roshni Nadar founded ‘The Habitats’ trust, focusing on environmental conservation. As chairperson of VidyaGyan Leadership Academy, Roshni actively contributes to uplifting the economically underprivileged.
Personal and Professional Balance
Beyond her corporate prowess, Roshni Nadar is a trained classical musician, showcasing the harmony she brings to both her personal and professional spheres. Her marriage to Shikhar Malhotra, vice chairman of HCL Healthcare, reflects a commitment to balance and shared aspirations. The couple has two sons, adding another layer to Roshni’s multifaceted life.
Awards and Recognition
The accolades bestowed upon Roshni Nadar highlight her impact and influence. From being named NDTV Young Philanthropist of the Year in 2014 to receiving the “World’s Most Innovative People Award” in 2015, her journey is marked by continuous recognition.
Leadership Insights
In a candid conversation, Roshni Nadar opens up about her journey, emphasizing the values instilled by her parents and the importance of intentional skill acquisition. From her experiences at Northwestern University to the pivotal role of business school, every step was a deliberate move toward leadership.
Embracing Vulnerability
Roshni Nadar acknowledges vulnerability as a key aspect of leadership, a lesson learned from her father. Managing people and their emotions, she believes, is as crucial as technological prowess. Her leadership style is centered on effective communication, fostering a culture where people are at the core of every decision.
Looking Ahead
The Chair of the HCL Ltd. Board, Roshni expressed satisfaction with the shifting focus towards climate and diversity discussions. While technology, P&L, and attrition remain essential, her commitment to putting people first is evident. The leadership team dedicates considerable time to prioritising their most valuable asset – their people.
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