In the 82nd episode of Jam with Sam, Sampath Iyengar sits down with Kalpana Maniar, the President of Edelweiss. A pioneer in technology-led business solutions and a seasoned finance professional, Kalpana shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings in East Africa to leading one of India’s prominent financial services companies. The conversation also delves into her passion for social initiatives and sustainable development.
From Zanzibar to Mumbai: A Life of Resilience
Kalpana’s story begins in Zanzibar, East Africa, where she was born during a time of political turmoil. Her family’s dramatic escape and eventual settlement in Mumbai shaped her resilient outlook. After attending Mary McCulloch Girls High School and HR College, she pursued economics and accounting, inspired by her father’s career in cost accounting. This foundational education was pivotal to her success in finance and technology.
Pioneering Technology in the Financial Sector
Kalpana’s corporate journey began as an audit clerk at Batley Boy & Purohit, where her persistence led the firm to overturn its policy of not hiring women for field audits. Her career took a transformative turn when she developed an interest in technology as a tool for solving business challenges. At Edelweiss, she spearheaded efforts to adopt cloud computing, decentralize technology systems, and enhance cybersecurity—all critical to the company’s exponential growth.
Her role also extended to scaling new domains, from credit to life insurance, showcasing her adaptability and leadership.
Social Impact and Sustainability
A turning point in Kalpana’s life came during a sabbatical, where her introduction to yoga inspired her to engage in social causes. She became a passionate advocate for sustainable initiatives like the Waghari River Project. This government-backed program focuses on afforestation, water conservation, and empowering farmers in Maharashtra’s Yavatmal district. Kalpana explains how planting trees along rivers not only combats desertification but also transforms the socio-economic fabric of the region by providing alternative livelihoods.
Reflections on Challenges in Finance
Kalpana shared candid views on compliance and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the balance needed between regulation and innovation. She acknowledged the growing importance of whistleblowers in exposing financial irregularities and stressed the need for reforms to enhance financial protection. Her insights into these complex issues reflect her deep understanding of the sector’s evolving landscape.
Beyond Work: Family and Hobbies
Despite her demanding career, Kalpana values family and personal growth. Her husband, an investor focused on startups, and her daughter, a pastry chef, inspire her balanced approach to life. She enjoys yoga, marathon running for rural education, and travelling. Notably, she has raised significant funds for rural education through her participation in marathons.
Conclusion
Kalpana Maniar’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of technology. From reshaping financial systems to championing sustainable development, she embodies a commitment to making a difference both professionally and socially. Her story offers valuable lessons for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs navigating the crossroads of finance and technology.
About Kalpana Maniar:
Kalpana Maniar is the President of Edelweiss and a technology-driven business strategist with over three decades of experience. Passionate about social causes, she actively contributes to initiatives like water conservation and rural development. Kalpana’s innovative approach and leadership continue to inspire professionals across industries.