BW MIW: Prativa Mohapatra - Shifting Narratives & Driving Inclusive Growth
In discussions surrounding leadership, the inclination to categorise roles as either male or female persists. Yet, Prativa Mohapatra, the Vice President and Managing Director of Adobe India, presents a progressive perspective by advocating for a leadership approach that transcends gender distinctions.
Edited Excerpts:
Reflecting on your three-year tenure as Adobe India's first woman MD, how did you perceive the initial reactions and discussions about your appointment?
The appointment sparked diverse discussions and expectations. Many people expressed a sense of familiarity, sharing connections with my college and hometown. On one side, there was excitement and inclusivity. On the other side, I pondered the rarity of such an achievement. The contrast between the acceptance of the first man's achievement and the heightened scrutiny faced by the first woman was evident. It shows the systemic challenges women face in gaining recognition.
There's a crucial need for default support and encouragement for women's achievements, surpassing mere celebration of milestones. Consistent empowerment at all stages is important. In India, women often have to prove their leadership positions, leading to added pressure. The scrutiny is beneficial, but it can be burdensome when the good is not perceived as great. This scrutiny, not experienced by men, highlights a societal dichotomy that shouldn't persist. Despite challenges, it was indeed fantastic to be acknowledged by various platforms during my nearly 50-year journey.
What were the standout highlights for you at Adobe in the past year?
My transition from IBM to Adobe, after almost 25 years, was more than just a change of companies—it was a cultural assimilation. Finding a fantastic value match resonated deeply with me, aligning with the company's focus on creating the future distinctly and uniquely. This assimilation, often the hardest part for anyone, was surprisingly quick. On the technological front, the shift from foundational technologies at IBM to Adobe's cutting-edge digital transformation was significant. This pivot, encompassing cultural and technological shifts, continues to be a fantastic journey. Adobe's dynamic and diverse work environment, with millennials, Gen Z, and baby boomers, provides an energetic atmosphere for constant transformation and growth.
How have you advocated for diversity within the organisation and taken specific initiatives for a more inclusive work environment?
Championing diversity and inclusion is inherent to me, stemming from my journey. Regardless of the organisation's stance, my commitment to diversity and inclusion is unwavering. Within Adobe, initiatives like the SheSparks programme focus on empowering women, and bringing them back to work after breaks. An impactful example involves hiring a woman returning to the workforce after a two-year break, who not only completed a successful six-month stint but became a permanent employee.
In the business, I have set strict targets for my first-line managers to ensure a diverse team. I assess business outcomes and inclusivity with equal sincerity.
What strategic plans do you have for Adobe this year?
Certainly, Gen AI is a focal point for discussions today, and Adobe's products position us well. Beyond products, there's a focus on nurturing GenAI and skills. Initiatives like skill tests, Friday brown bags, and constant adaptation to the changing workplace are essential. The shift from purely virtual to hybrid and back to the office presents challenges in team cohesion and adapting to tech changes. As the best-performing market in the Asia Pacific region, maintaining motivation and driving through these changes is a priority.
As a woman in leadership, what advice do you have for aspiring female tech leaders to overcome fear, shed inhibitions, and excel?
For aspiring female leaders, shift the narrative from being a woman leader to simply a leader. Leadership in today's tech environment requires resilience and adaptability, managing diverse teams spanning different age groups. A strong learning mindset is crucial in the fast-changing workplace. Fearlessness is core, remembering that the corporate world is not akin to critical surgeries—embrace the safe track, run the business, and go after your goals. Creating a holistic environment with equal opportunities is vital. Be a visionary and a facilitator simultaneously, emphasising the duality of leadership roles essential for both men and women.
