Name: Manee Kamboj

Title: CEO

Organisation: Hexert Technology

Location: New York, United States

I am on a quest to touch as many lives as possible to transform communities and learn from them how to live meaningful lives! ~ Manee Kamboj

You never fail because you never give up ~Manee Kamboj

As a Senior Executive at a Japanese Multinational Bank, Manee Kamboj is a self-described accidental entrepreneur, unconventional executive, critical innovator, by-the-skin philanthropist, and Sprouting Film Producer.

She also co-owns ROSHNI Media Group and RAYWA Foundation along with her long time friend Dr Rashmee Sharma. Roshni Media's inaugural awards program in North America, the TIA Awards, was initiated by her with guidance and leadership, and it was launched at The Pierre in NYC on May 29th, 2015.

In addition to leading globally as a senior executive in the banking industry, she also sits on the board of several small-to-big nonprofit organizations. that backs efforts to educate children and empower women. RAYWA (Raising Awareness of Young Women with Autism) is a cause that Manee and her partner Dr. Rashmee Sharma hold dear.

In addition, she held the position of President of NetIP NY, which had a membership of 4000 professionals from NY, NJ, and CT. NetIP is a well-established Indian professional networking organization that has 24 chapters and nearly 41,000 registered members in the USA.

She is also an integral part of Columbia University Social Work committee for Syrian Refugee project.

She made her debut as a director on Roshni Media's ambitious project, producing a TV series about inspirational achievers called 'Shining Light of India' for leading News Channel of India "Times Now".

The production leadership team for a Hollywood autobiographical movie that is based on the book 'Grey Wolves, White Doves' places her at the forefront of the team's work.

Manee obtained her executive certification from The Wharton School and holds a Master's degree in Computer Applications. Having various certifications in Mutual Fund Advisory, she has also achieved many UNESCO and UNO Certificates at a very young age.

She has received recognition for inspiring leadership at multiple platforms in both the United States and India. Her unparalleled achievements have led to her being featured on magazine cover pages, from "50 most influential people in the US" to "Beauty with Brains". She has been trained in Bihu dancing, a form of Indian Assamese folk dance.

Manee is a believer in continuous learning and giving back. Nish Kamboj, who graduated from Harvard and is a successful tech entrepreneur, has been a staunch supporter of Manee through all her endeavors. Their pride stems from the fact that their children, Divina Kamboj and Ranveer Singh Kamboj II, are enrolled at The Horace Mann School, one of the top American schools.

She and her family reside in Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Manee's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

I have witnessed instances of confusion in my leadership roles because of the lack of consistent communication across different domain groups, such as technology, business, and operations.

I became aware of the possibility of misunderstood expectations for program initiatives within the diverse team. Realizing that cultivating a sense of inclusivity is crucial, my team conducted feedback sessions and realized the need for a more structured communication approach.

The combination of my team's commitment to inclusivity and my insight led us to establish a governance structure that involved representatives from different departments. The goal was to gather varying viewpoints, resulting in a more comprehensive and uniform communication strategy that ultimately resulted in a shared organizational vision.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

Leadership is not an innate quality; rather, it is a discipline that evolves through experience and practice.

Ever since I was a kid, there's been this innate joy in my heart when I bring together friends, fostering an ecosystem where we seamlessly collaborate as a team, all driven by a shared goal.

Several factors have shaped my journey toward leadership:

1. Experience and Expertise: Accumulating relevant experience and expertise in a specific field has consistently propelled me into leadership roles within that domain.

2. Demonstrated Leadership Skills: Over the years, I have showcased effective communication, decision-making, and teamwork skills, establishing a foundation for leadership opportunities.

3. Education and Training:Actively pursuing leadership-focused education and participating in workshops have contributed to my growth as a leader.

4. Initiative and Proactivity:Taking initiative on projects, steering the vision, and effectively communicating it across teams and leaders within the organization has been a pivotal aspect of my leadership journey.

5. Mentorship and Networking:Building robust professional relationships, seeking mentorship, and engaging in industry networking have consistently generated opportunities for leadership roles.

Developing leadership qualities is a gradual process, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It involves a blend of personal development, hands-on experience, and seizing opportunities that come one's way.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

My daily routine is intricately woven around the meticulous entries in my calendar. As a multitasking individual embracing the roles of a mother, wife, and professional leader, I find solace in the structured rhythm of weekdays. Each day is a symphony of responsibilities, and having a clear, organized plan allows me to navigate through the various aspects of my life seamlessly.

From sunrise to sunset, my calendar serves as a guiding map, outlining the tasks and commitments that demand my attention. As a mother, I ensure that my children's needs and activities are seamlessly integrated into the schedule, fostering a harmonious family life. Simultaneously, being a supportive wife involves allocating dedicated moments for shared activities and quality time with my spouse.

In my professional capacity as a leader, weekdays are a canvas of responsibilities, meetings, and strategic planning. Having a well-structured day not only enhances my productivity but also provides a sense of control over the myriad tasks that come with leadership. It allows me to lead with clarity, ensuring that my team is aligned with our collective goals and objectives.

This commitment to an organized routine is not just about efficiency; it's a deliberate choice to create a balanced and fulfilling life. A day defined by my calendar instills confidence, as I know what to expect and can proactively manage my time to achieve targets and milestones. The sense of accomplishment that comes from ticking off completed tasks fuels my motivation to take on the challenges of the day.

In essence, my calendar is not just a tool; it's a companion that empowers me to navigate the intricate dance of motherhood, spousal support, and professional leadership. It is the key to unlocking a well-orchestrated life where responsibilities seamlessly blend with aspirations, creating a tapestry of fulfillment and success.  

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Thinking about the saying "Be the change you want to see in the world," it really hit me during a talk with professors at Harvard University about diversity and inclusion. It made me realize that if you want to make a difference, it often starts right where you live and work, both in your professional and personal life.

Whether it's at your job or in your relationships, making a real change means being ready to take some risks. It's not just about talking; it's about being willing to step into new things, challenge how things are, and show others what change looks like through your own actions.

Being the change is more than just words; it means being mentally and emotionally ready to take on challenges. It's about aligning your thoughts, feelings, and actions—committing to change from the inside out.

Especially in areas like diversity and inclusion, creating a fair and understanding culture starts with individuals championing these ideas in their own circles. It's not just about talking about it; it's about acting on it in your everyday choices, decisions, and relationships.

This whole reflection has shown me that the power to make a difference is in our own hands. It's about making choices that impact the world around us. It's an ongoing journey of self-reflection, growth, and a strong commitment to facing the challenges of change with honesty and purpose.

As I balance my personal and professional life, I'm reminded that real change isn't just something we talk about; it's something we live—a force that starts within us, reaches out into the world, and shapes how we all live together.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

Not followed any book. But has been inspired by Indian freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose life.

Bose's leadership was marked by innovation, reflected in the quote "One individual may die for an idea, but that idea will, after his death, incarnate itself in a thousand lives." The establishment of the Provisional Government of Free India and his emphasis on empowering individuals showcase his visionary leadership, shaping my own perspectives.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

The essence of the advice is urging young leaders to act decisively and promptly. "Time is now" underscores the importance of taking initiative and making the most of the present moment.

In the realm of leadership, delays can hinder progress, and seizing opportunities promptly is crucial for growth and success. The cost of leadership, symbolized by the investment of time, emphasizes the commitment and dedication required to lead effectively.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

In my varied experiences leading organizations, the essence of purposeful leadership has become clear. A standout moment occurred in 2013 when I met Dr. Rashmee, a passionate advocate for diversity among South Asians in the USA. Realizing the significance of incorporating neurodiverse youth into the workforce, we teamed up.

Not only did we champion autism awareness, but we also took innovative technology initiatives to enhance opportunities for neurodiverse individuals, contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future for them globally.