In the realm of business leadership, women are making significant strides, bringing diverse perspectives and innovative strategies to the forefront. Their contributions span across industries, driving growth, fostering inclusive cultures, and redefining success metrics. One such exemplary leader is Chetana C, Director at Quantum Energy, whose journey embodies resilience, strategic acumen, and a commitment to transformative leadership.

Chetana's professional trajectory began as a software engineer at Wipro Technologies, where she honed her skills in structured problem-solving and project management. Her tenure at Kusalava Informatics, focusing on ERP software solutions, further solidified her expertise in technology-driven business environments. However, it was her decision to pursue the PGPMax program at ISB that marked a pivotal moment in her career.

At ISB, Chetana immersed herself in a rigorous curriculum that not only deepened her understanding of market dynamics but also instilled in her a strategic foresight crucial for navigating emerging industries like electric vehicles. Armed with a B.Tech in Computer Science and enriched by the insights gained at ISB, Chetana transitioned into leadership roles with a keen focus on innovation and sustainable growth.

As Director at Quantum Energy, Chetana champions initiatives that harness renewable energy solutions to meet global sustainability goals. Her leadership is characterized by a blend of visionary thinking and operational prowess, driving Quantum Energy towards pioneering advancements in the renewable energy sector. Beyond her technical expertise, Chetana is known for fostering a collaborative work culture that empowers her team to innovate and execute with excellence.

Chetana's journey underscores the invaluable contributions of women leaders in steering businesses towards success through innovation, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. In a landscape increasingly shaped by technological disruption and global challenges, leaders like Chetana C inspire with their transformative leadership and dedication to creating a sustainable future. Let’s hear from her.

What are some significant areas of expertise you've cultivated as a business leader throughout your career?

Throughout my journey, I've gained expertise in strategic planning, recognizing market potentials, and standing out in competitive environments. My background encompasses roles from software engineering to implementing ERP systems, and currently, steering an electric vehicle enterprise. This varied experience has enabled me to adopt a comprehensive approach to business leadership, particularly in addressing the complexities of burgeoning sectors.

Tell us about Quantum Energy. What are your primary responsibilities as a Director at the company?

Quantum Energy specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing electric two-wheelers. As a board director, my key responsibilities encompass strategic planning, forging alliances, overseeing sales and marketing initiatives, and managing financial operations.

What are the primary challenges you've encountered in your current role at Quantum Energy? How do you navigate these obstacles?

In our current role at Quantum Energy, navigating the challenges of a startup with rapid growth in a fiercely competitive market presents significant hurdles. Key challenges include managing tight product development timelines to maintain a competitive edge, swiftly adapting strategies to counter market dynamics, and evolving dealership operations from DODO (Dealer-Owned, Dealer- Operated) to CODO (Company-Owned, Dealer-Operated) and COCO (Company-Owned, Company-Operated) models. Additionally, in our B2B operations, establishing partnerships with industry leaders such as Sun Mobility, Log9, and Battery Smart to position Quantum as the preferred OEM across various operational frameworks is crucial.

To overcome these challenges, we prioritize strategic planning and agility. By staying proactive in anticipating market shifts and swiftly implementing necessary adjustments, we ensure our offerings remain relevant and competitive. Moreover, our focus extends beyond product delivery to providing comprehensive solutions that address our clients' evolving needs. This approach not only enhances our market position but also strengthens our relationships with key stakeholders, reinforcing Quantum Energy's role as a leader in the electric two-wheeler industry.

What has been the most important professional milestone you have achieved?

One of the pivotal professional achievements for me has been advancing Quantum Energy's position on Vaahan. Starting at 57th place when we launched in November 2020, we've risen to 9th place in just 20 months. Our next objective is to break into the top 5. This milestone reflects our strategy of offering comprehensive market solutions, rather than mere products.

How do you define success as a business leader? What has your success mantra been?

As a business leader, my definition of success revolves around empowering individuals to excel in their roles and fostering a work environment where they can thrive. Success, to me, is not just about achieving business objectives but also about enabling team members to realize their professional aspirations within a positive and supportive workplace that aligns with the company's vision.

My success mantra centers on nurturing a culture of empowerment and collaboration. By providing clear direction, supporting personal growth, and fostering a culture of open communication and trust, I aim to create a conducive environment where team members feel motivated and valued. This approach not only enhances productivity and innovation but also cultivates a sense of ownership and dedication among team members.

Furthermore, success as a leader extends beyond individual achievements to the collective accomplishments of the team and the organization as a whole. It involves setting clear goals, fostering a sense of accountability, and celebrating milestones together. By prioritizing the well-being and professional development of my team, I believe we can achieve sustainable success while creating a positive impact on the broader business ecosystem.

In essence, my success as a business leader is intricately linked to the growth and fulfillment of my team members, alongside achieving organizational goals in a harmonious and purpose-driven environment.

Advice for aspiring women entrepreneurs and business leaders:

When establishing a business aimed at addressing industry gaps or solving problems, deploying a competent team and empowering them effectively can pave the way to success. This approach not only facilitates achieving professional milestones but also enables women to maintain a healthy work-life balance while scaling their ventures to greater heights.

Chetana C, director, Quantum energy

Chetana C is the Director at Quantum Energy, bringing extensive experience from roles in software engineering, ERP implementation, and leadership in emerging industries like electric vehicles. She holds a B.Tech in Computer Science and has pursued executive education at ISB, focusing on strategic management and market dynamics.