Interview with Janaki Kannan

1. Tell us about your career journey and how you came to serve on a board.

I started my career in marketing after completing my bachelor’s in engineering 32 years ago. I worked in highly reputed institutions in India before my tenure in the Middle East, starting as a humble Marketing Manager in 2007 in Bahrain and currently serving as Vice President – New Business Development in my current organization. My journey has been mostly in Business Development, techno commercial in nature with focus on Public Private Partnership projects in the region. I have bid and successfully closed multiple power, water and infrastructure projects.

2. What are you most proud of and why?

I had a short break in my career when we moved to KSA in the late 90’s. I used this time to focus on my family needs and picked up my profession with full vigor and energy at the right time. I feel proud that this lost time in my career pushed me to work harder and I am on par with people of my age in my career now.

The area of my work is more male dominated. I am proud that I have been able to sustain my position and passion amidst the challenges and feel blessed to be recognized as one of the known names in the market. All of this was possible thanks to the organizations that I chose to serve who understood my thirst for growth and supported me.

3. What are your professional areas of expertise and what skills do you bring to the boardroom?

My expertise lies in my techno commercial contractual capabilities related to Public Private Partnership projects. The wealth of experience gained from the multiple projects that I have handled is the best skill that I can bring to the boardroom, which is key in decision making for any new venture or providing solutions to any issues that an organization may have. Risk identification and providing mitigation is a special skill that I have gained over years of experience which is critical to board members as well.

4. What are the benefits that diversity can bring to the boardroom, including women on boards?

Having diversity helps to approach things from different perspectives and get a 360-degree view. Women have the skill set to see a bit beyond what is presented and assess the future impact while carefully evaluating the associated risks. Decision making by women is generally more balanced. Women can see the flip side of a coin with their inborn intuitive skills and this gives them a balanced approach to decisions.

5. What is your advice for women who are aspiring to leadership and board positions?

Be yourself; understand your potential and use it to benefit yourself and society. Fear not and be bold to express your views. Equip yourself with all the skills that are required for the position that you are aspiring for, be confident and trust that you are unique. There is no better example than yourself to show your children how to lead life as a Leader.