In the current digital era, businesses are increasingly transitioning online, underscoring the essential need for systematic online tasks and data management. Despite a prevailing misconception that only large enterprises require IT services, it is crucial to recognize that businesses of all sizes stand to gain substantial advantages from investing in these solutions. With a decade of experience, Norima Consulting has been instrumental in transforming various businesses, adeptly deploying appropriate technology in collaboration with the right individuals to achieve optimal results. Garima Goel, serving as the Vice President of Norima Consulting, has played a crucial role as a supportive force, introducing innovations to the organization. Her valuable contributions have earned her recognition in the industry, with her expertise and knowledge making a lasting impact.

During a candid interview with our team, Garima divulged insightful details about the industry, providing valuable insider information. Additionally, she shared her upcoming ventures and aspirations within the field.

What are key aspects of your life and career journey that hold significance?

In 2006, I graduated with a Bachelor's in biotechnology, specializing in health screening, and embarked on a career journey with HCL Technologies. Beginning in healthcare and life sciences, I transitioned from an associate business analyst focused on pharmaceutical companies and clinical research to pioneering insurance products, marking my entry into the digital transformation for insurance carriers. With experiences spanning the United States and diverse roles, including delivery management and leadership at Accenture, I eventually assumed the role of Vice President for Program delivery at a midsize company before joining Norima Consulting. Complementing my professional journey, I pursued a one-year distance MBA in business administration from IMT Ghaziabad in 2012-2013, consistently engaging in continuous learning for Women Leadership and Strategic Leadership Programs with institutions like Stanford and Harvard Business School. In 2022, recognizing the importance of leadership in my industry role, I completed an executive development program focused on leadership and change management from XLRI, Jamshedpur, topping the program and gaining insights into effective leadership and team management, reinforcing my commitment to a balanced blend of experience and contemporary knowledge.

What specific areas of expertise have you cultivated throughout your career in the healthcare and insurance sector?

As previously mentioned, my immersion in the field of biotechnology has been immensely fulfilling. While my initial aspiration was to become a doctor, circumstances led me to pursue biotechnology as a means to sustain my passion for the industry. The program I completed at my university, JIITU, Noida, delved into various facets of genetic engineering, informatics, and immunology, providing a comprehensive foundation for contributing to the advancement of healthcare in our rapidly developing country. Following the program, I transitioned into life sciences and healthcare through on-campus recruitment for HCL, gaining valuable exposure with a leading pharmaceutical company. My involvement in phase one and phase three clinical trials, particularly in the realm of oncology, was deeply gratifying. Contributing to the development of vaccines and leveraging clinical data analysis to aid cancer patients globally added a profound sense of purpose. The thrill of successful trial outcomes was exceptionally rewarding. After dedicating nearly five and a half years to this field, I subsequently ventured into the insurance domain.

Provide an overview of Norima Consulting and elaborate on the diverse responsibilities you manage in your role as the Vice President.

Norima Consulting is a Canadian firm with offices in Canada, and the United States, a satellite office in India, and physical offices in Manila, Philippines, catering to global teams and clients. My focus primarily lies in the insurance transformation vertical within the consulting realm, although we also have strong pillars in banking and finance. Currently, my responsibilities centre on customer success, ensuring team alignment and delivering added value to clients. My scope extends to North America and Canada, with plans to expand into the Middle East. Moreover, I take charge of nurturing teams, primarily in India and Manila, fostering employee engagement through various initiatives such as upskill programs and cross-training. In essence, my overarching responsibilities revolve around ensuring client satisfaction and team cohesion.

What, in your view, are some of the most significant challenges you face in your present position? How do you navigate and overcome these obstacles?

As a female leader, establishing credibility in a highranking role has been challenging due to limited women's representation. My current organization, however, empowers me, allowing informed decisions that benefit teams and clients. Balancing this with being a single mother overseeing teams in different time zones initially posed work-life challenges, but with organizational support, flexibility, and mentorship, I've achieved equilibrium. Overseeing multiple teams, meeting tight deadlines, and ensuring team wellbeing is complex, but support and empowerment from leadership, especially my mentor, Wayne Iluyomade enhance the efficient resolution of these challenges. For women, a success mantra is to remain confident despite challenges behind the scenes. Though things may slow down, staying positive and consistently moving forward is essential. Emphasizing focus, setting smart goals, and working towards them is crucial. I instil in my daughter the importance of appreciating our blessings and using our time wisely. Amid spending time with loved ones, maintaining focus on our goals is key.

Garima Goel, Vice President, Norima Consulting

Garima boasts over 17 years of diverse IT industry experience, spanning roles such as Delivery Manager, Recovery Manager, Senior Business Analyst, Quality Analyst, and Scrum Master. Her expertise extends to business analysis along with client delivery in P&C Insurance, Guidewire Suite, Salesforce, and ServiceNow, Content Management, functional and performance testing, document production and integration and output management systems across North America, APAC and EMEA Clients. On her voluntary work, She works as a member of IWN, Bangalore and as a Member of the Board of Advisors at Sayodhya Home for Women in Need and an active member of National Volunteering Grid India.