“My Approach Has Shifted From Traditional Top-Down Leadership to a People-Oriented Style”
Ekta Puthran, the Director of Sales &/ Regional Marketing for Asia Pacific and MEA for Meeting Experience business at Barco, says juggling professional demands with personal expectations is a tightrope walk
Can you share your journey into the technology world? What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
I am currently the Director of Sales &/ Regional Marketing for Asia Pacific and Middle East Africa for Meeting Experience business at Barco. My journey in the technology world seems to have been driven by a passion for innovation and collaboration solutions. Juggling professional demands with personal expectations is a tightrope walk.
I often find myself working harder for recognition, pushing against invisible barriers, and battling self-doubt. Microaggressions and the need to repeatedly prove my worth are part of my daily reality.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a woman, and how did you overcome them?
Unconscious bias and the pressure to balance assertiveness with likability are constant companions. Finding strong mentors and sponsors who champion my growth isn’t always easy. Juggling professional demands with personal expectations is a tightrope walk.
How do you describe your leadership style, and how has it evolved over time?
My leadership style has evolved from task-oriented to collaborative and adaptable. I now focus on creating an inclusive environment where team members feel empowered to contribute. I blend direct communication with empathy, which has earned respect and trust.
I’ve become more open-minded and flexible, recognising the constant change in business. I actively listen to diverse perspectives and adjust course when needed. I also emphasise mentorship and developing future leaders within my team.
Overall, my approach has shifted from traditional top-down leadership to a people-oriented style that values both results and relationships. This reflects the broader trend towards transformational and adaptive leadership models.
What strategies do you use to motivate and empower your team?
- Lead by example: I demonstrate the work ethic, resilience, and adaptability I expect from my team. This builds credibility and inspires others to push their boundaries.
- Encourage risk-taking: I create a safe environment for my team to take calculated risks, knowing that innovation often comes from stepping out of comfort zones.
- Provide mentorship opportunities: I connect team members with mentors both within and outside our organization, recognizing the power of guidance in personal and professional growth.
- Foster a culture of continuous learning: I encourage my team to pursue leadership development programs and resources, investing in their skills and confidence.
- Promote work-life balance: I implement flexible work policies and support programs that help team members manage their professional and personal responsibilities effectively.
- Cultivate a sense of purpose: I help team members connect their work to our larger mission, fostering a passionate commitment to our goals.
- Encourage networking: I create opportunities for team members to build professional relationships and expand their support system.
- Recognize and celebrate achievements: I make sure to acknowledge both individual and team successes, boosting morale and motivation.
- Practice active listening: I ensure that every team member feels heard and valued, creating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed.
- Empower through delegation: I trust my team with important responsibilities, showing confidence in their abilities and helping them develop leadership skills.
I aim to create a supportive, dynamic, and high-performing team environment that nurtures future leaders.
Have you had any mentors or role models who have significantly influenced your career? How did they impact your journey?
At one of the guest lectures at IIM I came across Falguni Nayar who showed its all about strength and passion. She made news for being the richest self-made female billionaire in India, is the current founder and CEO of the well-known Indian e-commerce company Nykaa. After an illustrious 20-year career in investment banking, Nayar, a graduate of Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics in Mumbai and IIM Ahmedabad, rose to prominence as a self-made businesswoman in beauty industry because of her dream and passion. Its all about believing in yourself.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the technology world?
Embrace new technologies and stay adaptable to changing work environments. Focus on creating inclusive and collaborative workspaces. Prioritise user experience and intuitive solutions in technological implementations. Stay informed about cybersecurity threats and prioritize data protection
Can you highlight some of your proudest achievements in your career so far?
Age is just a 2 digit number – one of my proudest achievements is leading the Asia Pacific and Middle East Africa regions for Barco in my early thirties. This role has been a journey of challenges and triumphs, proving that success is about grit and innovation, not age. My journey has been about breaking barriers and challenging preconceptions.
Leadership is about vision and courage, not just years of experience. In the fast-evolving tech landscape, staying ahead means continuous learning and embracing change. This experience has reinforced my belief that passion and determination can help you achieve remarkable things, regardless of age or traditional career paths.
How do you manage work-life balance, and what tips do you have for other women striving to achieve this balance?
Disconnect to Reconnect – very important, and spend time with family! I emphasise the importance of flexible work arrangements and creating attractive workspaces that employees want to return to. I advocate for a balance between remote and in-office work, suggesting that this approach can lead to increased morale, productivity, and lower attrition rates.
