Shilpa Bhan, SVP & Group Head International FI Relations, Axis Bank (based in India):
Smriti Pandey: What was the key tipping point in your career that gave you a big boost, and what was the outcome?
Shilpa Bhan: My career journey spans over 20 years, well begun with the good fortune of starting in a traditional MNC banking role with fast-paced growth opportunities. However, the global financial crisis (2008) hit the banking industry around the midpoint of my career, resulting in a significant slowdown. With an educational background in development, I found myself presented with opportunities, one of which was a career in impact-led investing.
During this 3+ year stint outside of banking, I learned to think like an investor. I developed the ability to quickly grasp any business in terms of its KPIs, viewing projects from an equity returns standpoint. I deeply understood how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) parameters greatly impact long-term outcomes and how Boards can influence sustainable future businesses. This experience also allowed me to expand my network to include consultants and buy-side firms, broadening my circle of knowledge and influence.
This role also provided insights into the institutional space, in addition to corporates, which I could leverage in future endeavors. Being part of a smaller setup in India and working remotely through calls, leading cross-functional and cross-border teams on deals, unexpectedly prepared me for coping with covid-19 working styles long before the rest of the world.
How much of this boost resulted from careful planning, and how much was good luck?
While the idea of working in impact finance had crossed my mind, the timing wasn’t planned. However, I seized the opportunity when it arose through a LinkedIn post from an old colleague. In my experience, career pivots usually emerge through organizational opportunities, my network, and alignment with my core skill sets developed on the job or through micro-skilling courses and professional qualifications.
What factors did you consider when making your plan? What obstacles did you encounter along the way?
I had to learn to be self -motivated, think without constraints and take a hard look at what my skills I currently need to round off my experience at every stage. There have been numerous obstacles, such as regaining my footing after childbirth, having to balance opportunity with my husband’s career and learning to stand out at every stage amongst others.
My family, mentors, and sponsors have been invaluable throughout this journey. They believed in my long-term prospects even during phases like motherhood, being stuck in the advancement funnel, or limiting travel post-covid-19 due to family responsibilities.
What is your advice for young women seeking a tipping point in their career?
My secret to success? Staying consistent in delivering upon objectives, continually upgrading technical and leadership skills outside the job through courses, hobbies, or social work (akin to how my son collects power-ups in a video game.) This approach has allowed me to ‘earn my place’ at every career stage and across diverse organizational setups. It is important to remember that no state of dissonance lasts and eventually you will achieve equilibrium. After all, that’s all I know to do with the sun sign of a goat – keep climbing up that mountain be it wind, rain or an avalanche!
Read more:
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