Punjab is not only known for its vibrant cultures, ancient traditions, and unparalleled natural beauty, but also for a growing number of successful women entrepreneurs who are leading the way in business. They are stepping up as formidable leaders, defying stereotypes and reshaping the future of business. From boardrooms to executive suites, their presence is not just a statement but a testament to their skill, resilience, and vision. One such visionary leader is Sonika Kanojia, Director of Svanz and a result-oriented professional with 20 years of experience in Marketing, Business Strategy Implementation and Business Development, with a focus on the FMCG and Education sectors.

In this interview with Women Entrepreneur, Sonika shares insights into her career journey and sheds light on Svanz.

Can you give a brief overview of you career journey?

Beginning my career at the Winsome Group, I managed administration responsibilities in an IT-focused environment. In the initial years of my career I worked in the field of client relations and analysis, after completing my MBA, I got opportunity to work with one of the top 50 companies worldwide i.e. PEPSICO. At PEPSICO, my journey was full of learning and enjoying the work life. I not only got the opportunity to work in different streams but also develop my expertise on Marketing, Business strategy and development. At PEPSICO I contributed to impactful projects such as IPLs, successful launch of Nimbooz Masala Soda and several other short term brands. Got hands on experience in brand development as well as trade marketing. These experiences not only enriched my skills but also presented exhilarating challenges that I eagerly embraced.

However, a pivotal moment arose when I chose to depart from PEPSICO to prioritize my growing family, blessed with my third child. This decision, while initially fulfilling, eventually left me yearning for more. After a year of contemplation, I resolved to start a business that would afford me the flexibility to balance my professional aspirations with the demands of family life. This could happen only with the great support of my family and most of it my life partner.

With your extensive experience, what key expertise have you developed in the FMCG and education industries?

I spent one and a half years at Chandigarh University before starting my own business. During this time, I gained valuable insights into operations and management. While conducting some research work. However, my primary professional experience lies with PEPSICO, where I honed my marketing skills and led teams in Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. This role encompassed not only traditional marketing but also business development, which involved overseeing the entire supply chain and distribution process. This experience taught me the importance of managing overall business operations, from stock procurement to market availability. Additionally, my time in education involved more than just teaching; I managed a stream of MBA - Business Analytics, overseeing everything from admissions to post-course outcomes. These experiences have equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of business operations and strategy in both the FMCG and education sectors.

Can you throw some light on Svanz? What makes it different from other organizations?

Svanz specializes in office furniture consultation, initially focusing on advising clients on the type of furniture best suited for their work environment. Over time, we expanded into manufacturing interactive and innovative furniture that enhances productivity and engagement. For example, we developed a height-adjustable table controlled by gestures, allowing users to easily switch between sitting and standing positions. We also introduced foldable furniture, a concept popular in foreign countries but previously unavailable in India, which maximizes space efficiency and versatility in office layouts.

In terms of my role within the organization, I handle a range of responsibilities including finance, marketing, public relations, basic operations, and overseeing teams for sales, production, and research and development. My husband is also involved in the business, focusing on sales and manufacturing. Together, we aim to create furniture that not only meets practical needs but also enhances the overall work environment, promoting a more dynamic and efficient workspace.

What are some of the challenges you faced as a business leader, and how did you overcome it?

When you work for an organization, receiving your salary on payday is a routine occurrence. However, when you start your own business, the dynamic shifts. Now, you're responsible for making payments to your team members, vendors, and other stakeholders. This shift from receiving to giving can be challenging, especially in the early months when profitability may be low. One of the initial challenges I faced was ensuring timely payment to my team to keep them motivated. A demotivated team can be detrimental to a new business. Therefore, I prioritized setting aside funds for salaries, as well as for business operations and future needs. Another challenge was gaining the trust of customers, as without customers, there would be no revenue. To address this, we organized mock-ups at customer sites and created experience center to showcase our furniture. We also provided detailed consultations to customers, educating them about the materials, functions, and considerations for selecting furniture. These efforts helped us build trust and credibility with our customers. Overall, while challenges are a part of daily business life, the key focus has been on maintaining a motivated team and building customer trust.

What advice do you have for aspiring women leaders or women entrepreneurs?

My advice is for every woman to work for herself and not compare her journey with anyone else's. Each person's success story is unique, and there is no need for comparison. Instead of comparing, seek motivation from other women who are achieving great things in the world. Focus on writing your own success story and stay motivated by the achievements of others. Embrace your journey, celebrate your achievements, and learn from your challenges. Every setback is an opportunity to grow stronger and wiser. So, focus on writing your own success story—one that reflects your values, dreams, and aspirations.

Sonika Kanojia, Director, Svanz

Sonika is a result-oriented professional with 20 years of experience in Marketing, Business Administration, and Business Development, with a focus on the FMCG and Education sectors. She has a proven track record of delivering targets, resolving performance bottlenecks, and achieving desired objectives.