I had been working for Grant Thornton Bharat for five years when the opportunity to join the UK firm on a secondment came up. Having studied and worked in London before, I had always been keen to seek international exposure again. When this role came along, it felt like life was giving me a second chance - like a sequel to a great movie (hopefully not the kind that ruins the original!). It was both exciting and challenging, and I couldn’t help but think, not everyone gets a rare second shot at unfinished business.
I embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly, ready to rediscover my path and push myself to new heights - while also making sure my tea order was back to British standards! More importantly, I was determined to strengthen the strategic business ties between the UK and India, proving that some sequels can be even better than the original!
In a nutshell, my role is like being a strategic bridge! Being a connecting dot for Grant Thornton UK and Grant Thornton Bharat, driving cross-border collaboration and boosting client engagement across the UK, India, and the broader South Asian markets.
I’m the go-to person for linking clients with the right experts, helping them craft bespoke solutions, strengthen relationships, and drive strategic initiatives. Think of me as a matchmaker, except instead of weddings, I’m orchestrating seamless partnerships and tailored solutions to help clients navigate exciting business opportunities across South Asia. With expertise in market research, cross-cultural understanding, stakeholder and relationship management, and strategic thinking, I make sure everything runs smoother than a well-oiled machine… like a perfectly steeped cup of tea. All while making sure the business ties between the UK and India are stronger than my morning tea, and trust me, that’s really strong!
I act as a critical link, connecting diverse markets and facilitating seamless collaboration across geographical and cultural boundaries. My deep understanding of both the UK and Indian business environments and culture enables me to direct clients to the most appropriate resources, helping them achieve their goals effectively. This ability to connect the dots and provide tailored solutions ensures that the firm can offer comprehensive services that meet the unique needs of clients entering new markets or expanding their operations ensuring ease of doing business.
Think of me as a matchmaker, except instead of weddings, I’m orchestrating seamless partnerships and tailored solutions to help clients navigate exciting business opportunities across South Asia.
Having spent years at Grant Thornton Bharat and now the UK firm, I’ve been fortunate to receive not only incredible opportunities but also support and recognition, which has created a deep bond with the firm. This new chapter is a privilege, it allows me to bridge the gap between two firms, two nations, and countless people. Many say I proudly carry the Indian flag in the UK, but for me, it’s about something much more meaningful. It’s not just about waving the flag, but about building real relationships on both sides, internally and externally and being that trusted connector and adviser who’s always ready to make the business world feel just a little smaller.
What makes this role truly special is the chance to foster those deep connections, to see people and ideas come together in ways that make a tangible difference. Perhaps that’s why I don’t see it as work. I genuinely love what I do, and each day feels like a new opportunity to bring people closer, strengthen brand visibility through great work and relationships, and make an impact that goes beyond business.
It’s incredibly fulfilling to see how our collective efforts have helped enhance our firm’s ability to deliver seamless, value-driven solutions to clients on both sides. Recently, our hard work and strategic focus were recognised when we won the Consultancy Firm of the Year 2024 award at the India Global Forum (IGF). This prestigious award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to strengthening India-UK relations, built on a foundation of strong client partnerships, vibrant cultural ties, and impactful thought leadership. From the iconic India Meets Britain report with CII to the India in the UK Diaspora report with FICCI, and most recently, our collaboration with Consulate General of India in Edinburgh and FICCI on the India and Scotland: A Story of Success report, each milestone reflects our strategic focus on the India-UK business corridor.
I am driven by a deep passion for creating meaningful change. My journey is fuelled by a commitment to innovation, collaboration, transformation and excellence. I believe in pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo to create solutions that not only meet business needs but also contribute positively to society. We, as a team thrive on diverse perspectives, constantly learning from each other to deliver exceptional results ensuring ease of doing business and positive experiences. Together, we are dedicated to making a real impact and leaving a legacy through our work.
With the growing collaboration between the UK and Indian member firms, the opportunities for my role really open up. I will focus on strengthening the cross-border integration of services, helping clients navigate complex regulatory frameworks and cultural nuances. This will enable us to deliver comprehensive, value-driven solutions that meet the diverse demands of clients on both sides. As we look ahead, the anticipated India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) presents exciting opportunities to further enhance trade, investment, and collaboration between India and the UK. I’m proud to be part of this incredible journey of growth, transformation, and innovation - and I look forward to contributing to the next chapter of this dynamic partnership.
Because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to be at the forefront of making business easier, smoother, and a lot more exciting?