Leadership is not a fixed trait; it is a dynamic skill that demands continuous evolution. The moment a leader assumes they have ‘arrived,’ they risk obsolescence. What worked yesterday may be ineffective today, and the most successful leaders recognize that progress requires adaptability.
In the business world, staying ahead means embracing change, fostering innovation, and continuously refining strategies to align with market shifts. My journey—from an engineer securing multiple job offers to an MBA struggling in interviews, and later, a business leader navigating global complexities—has reinforced one undeniable truth: success is not about reaching a destination; it’s about continuously redefining the path forward.
Competence is Not Enough—Presence Matters
Early in my career, technical competence and academic credentials were enough. As an engineering graduate from VJTI, Mumbai, I secured offers from top investment banks and consulting firms based on skill alone. However, as an MBA from IIM Lucknow, I faced a new challenge, face-to-face interviews where I failed repeatedly.
The only interview I cleared instantly was a virtual one, but even then, the HR team felt the need to “apprise” their colleagues of my height and physique before finalizing the offer. That experience was eye-opening, expertise alone does not guarantee success. Presence, confidence, and perception are critical factors in leadership, especially in business environments where stakeholder management and executive presence shape career trajectories.
Leadership is a Balancing Act
As I transitioned into leadership roles, I embraced a modern, open leadership style, offering my team autonomy and flexibility. However, I quickly learned that unstructured freedom, without accountability, can be counterproductive. Leadership is not about choosing between control and empowerment but about mastering the balance between the two.
In business, balancing operational efficiency with strategic vision is key. Stakeholder management posed another challenge. Execution alone was not enough; influence, negotiation, and strategic alignment were equally critical. The shift came when I transformed an underperforming department into a high-impact, results-driven function—leveraging mentorship, strategic engagement, and clear communication to drive business success.
Cross-Functional Experience Shapes Better Leaders
One of the most valuable lessons in leadership came from working across diverse functions. Moving beyond my core expertise in procurement, I took on roles that required me to engage with operations, sales, marketing, and finance. Working in different departments allowed me to see the grass from both sides—understanding not just the challenges of procurement but also the operational pressures, the customer centric mindset of sales, and the financial discipline required for sustainable growth.
This hands-on exposure to different functions deepened my appreciation for ground realities. It also reshaped my leadership approach—teaching me that true influence comes not just from setting strategy but from understanding the daily struggles of those executing it. Business leaders who think beyond their silos create more holistic, scalable, and sustainable growth strategies.
Today, when I negotiate contracts, I don’t just think as a procurement professional; I consider the impact on sales, operations, and the end customer. This 360-degree thinking is what differentiates good managers from transformative business leaders.
Big Companies Teach; Smaller Companies Let You Execute
Another transformative experience was working in large multinational corporations before transitioning to a smaller, high-growth organization. Big companies offer structured systems, well-defined processes, and exposure to best practices in strategy, governance, and execution. However, the ability to implement bold ideas and drive rapid change is often constrained by hierarchy and legacy structures.
In contrast, smaller companies operate with agility, allowing leaders to experiment, execute, and witness the direct impact of their decisions. This environment fosters a high level of ownership and accountability—traits essential for entrepreneurial leadership. Moving from a corporate giant to a leaner organization provided the perfect opportunity to apply my learnings—implementing structured frameworks while retaining the flexibility to pivot when required. It reinforced a critical business lesson: strategy is only as good as its execution, and execution thrives in environments where adaptability meets discipline.
Career Growth Demands Evolving Strategies
The rules of career progression change at every stage. Early on, job portals worked. Later, referrals became key. Today, networks determine opportunities. Recognizing these shifts and adapting is essential for long-term business success. Leaders who leverage their networks, build relationships, and create value for others open doors to exponential growth.
Even within procurement, my approach evolved. Initially, vendors taught me the power of relationship-building. Over time, I embraced a sales and customer service mindset— actively listening to customers, understanding their needs, and leading with empathy.
This shift strengthened negotiations and reinforced the importance of patience and long-term strategic thinking—essential skills in today’s interconnected business landscape.
Evolve or Be Left Behind
The best leaders are not those who simply succeed but those who continuously adapt. Leadership is a moving target, and the ability to unlearn, recalibrate, and evolve separates those who remain relevant from those who fade into the background.
In business, stagnation is not an option. Are you evolving fast enough to stay ahead?
About the Contributor – Jinal Sheth is a seasoned procurement and supply chain professional with extensive experience across industries like Manufacturing, Real Estate, and Retail. Currently serving as the COO at Knots – A Different Experience, Jinal brings a wealth of expertise from her tenure at leading organizations such as Suzlon Energy, Lehman Brothers, Acme Group, and Landmark Group. An MBA from IIM L, MCIPS Chartered Professional and a BTech Computer Engineer from VJTI, Jinal has successfully driven strategic sourcing initiatives, enhanced operational efficiencies, and fostered collaboration across stakeholders to help build strong businesses. Recently recognized as one of the ” Top 10 Influential Leaders to Watch in 2024″ by the Middle East Leaders Business Magazine, she continues to make a significant impact in the industry through her innovative and strategic approach.
This contribution is under the International Women’s Day initiative #SheIsInfinite.
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