In spite of the recent turmoil in the global economy caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, significant supply chain problems, and geopolitical unrest, the consulting industry has remained competitive. With the rapid technological advancements, businesses and organizations try to adjust to the new normal. Therefore, it has become imperative to have consulting leaders who are more agile and help them adapt to changes. One such leader is Aparna Sharma, Business Head, Noam Management Consulting.

Aparna Sharma’s journey in the business transformation and talent management industry has been marked by diverse roles. As the founder of Noam Management Consulting, Aparna offers tailored solutions for leadership development, talent solutions and process optimization, forging partnerships with leading companies across various industries. With a focus on sustainability and strategic growth, she ensures that each project receives the comprehensive support needed for success. She works closely with boards to realize their medium to long term vision. In an exclusive interview with Women Entrepreneurs Review magazine, Aparna talks more about her company and its unique operational model. Let’s delve into it.

What are the key areas of expertise that you have developed over the years, working as a business transformation and talent management expert?

I have worked with over 300 clients across Asia, US, Europe and Australia as a business transformation and talent management expert. My experience has been across various sectors such as BFSI, hospitality, IT/ITES, media and advertising, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, education, government, and PSUs. This has helped me to hone my skills in two key areas, which are, organization development (OD) and process optimization.

Through Organization Development, I help businesses build dynamic teams and leadership frameworks that can adapt to evolving market demands. Process optimization is the other major area of my expertise. I specialize in streamlining processes to enhance efficiency, productivity, and overall performance.

I also work with companies that have been successful in the past but are having difficulties right now. These companies may find it difficult to acknowledge the need for change since they frequently have ingrained working practices. It is my responsibility to lead them through the transition process and make sure they are agile and ready for any obstacles down the road.

Tell us about Noam. What are some of the key responsibilities that you shoulder as the founder of the company?

I established Noam in 2007, and for the past 17 years, we have been helping organizations foster a sustainable future. We help our clients integrate sustainability into their practices through partnerships and tailored solutions. Many executives focus on prioritizing top-line and bottom-line metrics such as revenues, market share, and profitability. Sustainability often gets sidelined because it is considered an expense or a box to tick for compliance. I am trying to change this notion through Noam. Our mission is to help leaderss appreciate that one can enhance top-line and bottom-line performance sustainably. The organizations can achieve their business goals while making a positive impact on society by aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

What are some of the most critical challenges that you encounter in your current role? How do you navigate these roadblocks?

I face several challenges in my current role, but two stand out. First is the constant battle to convince our clients to adopt a more sustainable mindset. One of the biggest challenges is persuading them that sustainability is an investment and not just a hurdle. It is essential for future success and growth and aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals. Second is the speed at which technologies are developing, post-pandemic. The uncertainty that looms large has made it important to develop flexible thinking, become more agile, and incorporate sustainability into business practices.

I take a multi-pronged approach to address these issues. I leverage my expertise and network to offer tailored solutions, advocate the advantages of sustainability, and place emphasis on developing a culture of innovation and continuous learning among my clients and team members.

What are some of the most critical professional wins that you have achieved over the years?

Noam has experienced multiple economic slow-downs in the past 17 years. One of the most significant ones was in 2008- 2009 when we had just set up. At that time, most boutique firms and smaller businesses were struggling to stay afloat, we flourished. We continued to flourish and expand through multiple slowdowns, with many of our client relationships spanning 10/12/14 years.

Using my experience in financial services, I put a strategic business plan in place. I approached my firm in a manner akin to banks. This involved a combination of time and demand deposits; therefore a balance between bigger profitable projects and more modest ongoing retainerships. Our recurring revenue from the retainers kept us swimming during the recession when we lost some of our larger clients.

What has been your success mantra as a business leader over the years?

My mantra to success has always revolved around one core principle, which is, prioritizing people. I have always believed that if you can trust people and get them to support the objectives and values of your firm, everything else will fall into place. Therefore, I focus more on values and common life goals than skills, when recruiting. It is because skills can be taught, but values are intrinsic qualities that can help drive long-term success. Using this method has enabled me to build teams that can weather challenges and grow with ease.

A business leader you admire: Kiran Mujumdar Shaw and Richard Branson.

Advice for aspiring women entrepreneurs/ business leaders: Focus on leveraging and projecting the strengths you possess, instead of worrying about the skills you lack.

Aparna Sharma, Business Head, Noam Management Consulting

Aparna Sharma Holds A Two Years Full Time Mba In Human Resources (And Strategy As Minor) From Xlri And A Bsc Honours In Zoology From Hindu College. With Two And A Half Decades Of Experience, She Has Worked In Finance And As A Management Consultant For Mercer And Bts. In 2007, She Founded Noam Management Consulting, Leveraging Her Expertise To Help Firms Achieve Sustainable Growth.