Chairman of YES Bank, Rana Kapoor, was recently invited by the EO forum to give a talk at their Entrepreneur Organisation Regional Integration Event 2012. Kapoor spoke about his journey as an entrepreneur and what he learnt along the way.
Excerpts from an interview:
Do you have a Hyderabad connection?
In July 2005, after YES Bank’s IPO was oversubscribed 30 times, the capital markets committee of the board did the final allocation in Hyderabad. Since then, in less than seven years, I have seen Hyderabad transform into having possibly the best infrastructure any modern city can have; while retaining its character, culture and ethos.
Your talk at the EO Forum...
My focus was on the key learning from my entrepreneurial journey. I shared my thoughts on macro view of the Indian banking sector, my journey as a career banker, the establishment of YES Bank, weather-proofing for tough times and also highlighted the bank’s themes “opportunity in adversity” and “carpe diem – seizing the opportunity”.
What do you think is the secret of your success?
One’s success is a result of the collective discipline, dedication and determination that one develops as a young professional, imbibed during the years one spends on higher and professional education. These attributes uniquely shape your character and promote your success throughout your lifetime. I believe that sincerity, commitment, an entrepreneurial vision and strong interpersonal and execution skills are the main ingredients to success.
What are your succession plans?
I have three daughters, one of whom is involved in the business, management, innovation and strategy at the bank, and plans to become a financial entrepreneur. In due course, both my elder daughters are keen to evolve as businesswomen. However, I do not see any of them playing a lead role in the bank, given their academic background and objectives to be independent businesswomen.
What are your views on women in corporates and the glass ceiling?
I believe there is no glass ceiling for women anymore as reflected in all walks of leadership in our secular and emancipated nation.
