Meenakshi Dahiya, Head - Strategic Business Unit

Having completed a Master’s in Information Technology, tried my hands on a few assignments, but  was hell-bent to work for a small boutique firm called Cynosure Consultants. Had heard the founder speaking in various forums multiple times and was blown away with the approach to Customer Centricity - creating a company culture which I am yet to see so beautifully in any other organization.

The wait was for almost a year, till I got an opportunity with them to be part of the pre-launch team for their brand ‘Estate of Wilderness’. The assignment was that of a Project Head, which basically entailed everything from being an assistant of the founder, procurement of various products, being privy to all progress and budget-related meetings. And how could I have said NO?

Went on to launch the brand! It entailed living between various villages, towns and cities. Every bit of this experience has been unbelievable! Learnt the A to Z of how to launch a brand to marketing to procurement.

Having been away from home town for weeks, was very keen to do something that gave me satisfaction and a sense of belonging – a dream I am now living. And in the process, met with the farmers in the local areas. This interaction got me curious about where our food comes from and about the plight of our farmers in India. Given that I run this brand, often there are weeks I work without any time off as something or the other happens.

Rushing for work - it’s a blessing if I ever manage to make it to the office otherwise most days I’m on the road either for meetings or for visiting our clients we have or attending events. Its 8 PM before I know it and I try to get home at a decent hour, as it’s the only time I get to spend with my son. When I’m at home, I try to leave my work behind so I can have time with the family. The day is packed, hectic and at the same time rewarding, and I am often dealing with a thousand emotions from managing the team  to our client’s expectations. At times it gets overwhelming but then when you successfully pull something off; it makes it all worth it!  

Consistency in the product! Checking and rechecking recipes before we roll them out and our unconditional perseverance to ensure that the ingredients we use are always top-notch, supporting both local artisans and suppliers, and also sourcing from across the Country whenever required.