Are you intrigued by a success story that manifests growth, success, and impact? Inspired by a narrative in which a commoner like you and me rise to leadership thrones by making ends meet?

These tales are captivating because they are rare. People who have been through such rare journeys teach us a lot; there’s always something to learn from them. They do not just achieve success but also inspire several youngsters to chase their dreams. DevikaSinghania of Paytm is one such corporate gem, here with us in an exclusive conversation to share interesting aspects of her journey. Her impactful leadership is making long-lasting contributions to her organization and people. Take advantage of wise thoughts from this meticulous leader and gain a deeper understanding of business finance, women leadership, and much more.

Share about your expertise as a leader in business finance.

“Business” Finance is a critical function in a company but it is often not given the due share of importance. The truth is that data doesn’t lie. However, there are often multiple sources of data in an organization and they vary substantially. To harmonize the data, translate it to “information” and make it relevant for historical, current and future periods is where the challenge lies. Hence, in Business Finance, we shoulder a vital role to ensure that key decision-making is based on the right data combined with the right analysis to support the company to move in the right direction.

As finance professionals, we need to understand the key role we play in making the right decision. We are not just mere accountants but as mentioned above we are “Business Finance”, with an equal responsibility towards the growth of the organization.

Tell us about the various roles and responsibilities you shoulder at Paytm.

I wear many hats at work — ranging from ensuring routine business finance functions to being a team mentor. As a business partner, a finance leader typically operates in four roles- an operator, a steward, a strategist, and a catalyst. My primary strengths lie in the Strategist role where I provide financial leadership by supporting the decision-making process through the provision of risk-adjusted information and analysis. Also, the Catalyst role that challenges the status quo and drives forward initiatives that are critical to delivering financial objectives. Being an active business partner helps me understand business dynamics and identify data from information. I would say my key responsibility is ensuring that timely, accurate, and relevant information is available for key decision-making.

What has been the driving force behind your success as a professional?

My ambition to be a successful finance professional is what keeps me going. Apparently, success is not achieved overnight. It’s about doing the right things every day in the past 14 years which has led to success today. I remember feeling frustrated and disheartened about not reaching where I wanted to be. However, I never gave up and continued to give my best at my job every day. After a point, I decided not to get influenced by all the negative forces around me and concentrate on what I believe is right. These small little things have today defined me as a successful finance professional.

What’s your take on the current state of women’s representation in the Indian finance landscape? In your opinion, what steps must be to have more women in decision-making roles?

India's financial sector has been represented by mavens like Arundhati Bhattacharya and Shikha Sharma. They have inspired several women like you and me to reach for the top positions. And with these changing times, I do see a lot of women leaders in top positions. Over the years the number of women joining and sustaining in jobs has seen good growth and hopefully, the trend will continue.

I think every company is moving to ensure gender diversity in the workplace. Talking about building a fair environment where talent is rewarded and not gender, we need to get away from the inherent biases towards women and their inherent limitation on hours needed to put to reach a top level. If anything, we women have far superior abilities to give equal attention to both our personal and professional life.

Additionally, every organization needs to provide basic facilities/ policies such as child daycare, workfrom- home, etc. Thankfully, Covid has made organizations adopt work from a home policy which was non-existent earlier.

"You are never rewarded For being good at What you are supposed To do, but for being Extraordinary at what You are not expected to Do"

What would your advice be to young women and girls who also aspire to become leaders?

It’s going to be a long journey. Every day and every step counts towards your goal. I think as women we always second guess and doubt ourselves. It is normal to do that. But back yourself and continue to work towards the goal. We all need to understand that success will not come overnight. As young professionals, we do feel frustrated for not getting the desired position or recognition, etc.

Don’t give up, continue giving it your best and things will fall into place Secondly, it is also important to push yourself out of your comfort zone and to do a little more than yesterday. As women, we tend to fall into our comfort zones but to reach your goal, you need to constantly push yourself out of your comfort zone and do more. One valuable lesson that I have learned is that you are never rewarded for being good at what you are supposed to do, but for being extraordinary at what you are not expected to do.

Devika Singhania, Head Of Business Finance,  Paytm

Intrigued by numbers, taking up finance was a natural choice for Devika. She completed B.com(H) from Delhi University and cracked Chartered Accountancy. Subsequently, majored in finance and strategy Indian School Of Business. In the span of 14 years, she has worked across fintech, media, and investment banking across various roles. Devika’s diverse experience gives her a unique edge to innovate and simplify complex situations with critical analysis.