Tell us about some of the key business lessons you’ve learned through the years that make you a better leader today.

Throughout my career, I have embraced the invaluable lessons learned from diverse experiences. Starting in the Indian banking sector, I gained a deep understanding of the industry, honing my technical expertise and relationship management skills. Handling accounts of renowned personalities and industry leaders, I discovered the power of confidence and authenticity in building trust. Transitioning to Australia, I adapted to local practices and refined my communication abilities. Today, as a business owner, I effortlessly navigate between both financial and technical conversations, engaging with financial institutions like banks and foreign exchange professionals, as well as collaborating with CRM and enterprise solution providers.. Working tirelessly from ground level and humble means with my husband in a new country to heading the top leadership responsibilities in our established and renowned family business today at Usha Food Imports, the journey has taught me to be an effective and compassionate business leader with a visionary approach to my day to day work. These experiences have shaped me into a knowledgeable, confident professional capable of excelling in any situation.

Tell us about the various responsibilities you shoulder within the renowned family-run business.

In my role within our business, I wear multiple hats and oversee various aspects to ensure our operations run smoothly. Import procedures and compliance are a significant part of my responsibilities, requiring me to work closely with Australian quarantine and food import regulators. Additionally, I handle the financial aspects of the company, working closely with local bookkeepers and accountants to ensure accuracy and strategic decision-making. Leveraging my expertise in marketing and branding, I oversee all marketing activities, including B2B and B2C initiatives, as well as managing our social media presence. Embracing my passion for technology, I also take charge of implementing and managing sales systems and CRM capabilities. As an entrepreneur, I take pride in being involved in every facet of our business and working towards the mutual growth of our organization and employees.

In your opinion what are some of the most critical challenges you encounter in your current role? What steps do you undertake to overcome these roadblocks?

Initially, the presence of women taking the lead, especially in traditional business sectors and key areas of finance and technology, was not widespread. However, due to my core understanding of the subject matter and keen observation skills, honed by my upbringing in a family immersed in business, I have been able to establish my standing over the years in my current role. In a new country, balancing work and personal responsibilities along with raising a young family and working full-time side by side as a power couple has certainly tested my ability to manage my time effectively. Although physically being present at work every day is not always possible, I have found creative ways to overcome this obstacle. Embracing virtual meetings and leveraging technology has allowed me to stay connected and maintain productivity. Delegating tasks and establishing clear communication channels within my team have been instrumental in ensuring that important work is addressed promptly. Adapting to these new circumstances has taught me the importance of working smarter and finding innovative solutions to maintain a seamless workflow, even in challenging times.

"Today, as a business owner, i effortlessly navigate between both financial & technical conversations, engaging with financial institutions like banks & foreign exchange professionals, as well as collaborating with crm & enterprise solution providers" 

Tell us about the top three professional milestones you’ve achieved so far. What is your success mantra as a business leader?

Throughout my professional journey, I've had the privilege of achieving significant milestones that have shaped my career. One standout moment was during my banking days in India, where within a short span of one and a half years, I was entrusted with offshore responsibilities and appointed as an investment counselor for the entire region. Another highlight was being selected for the Executive Leadership Program at IIM Bangalore, an opportunity that set me apart from my peers. Transitioning to Australia and establishing our own business brought its rewards, such as being featured in a prominent Melbourne-Adelaide Who’s Who of Indian Business publication and earning the respect and admiration of our stakeholders. For me, the ultimate achievement is when my voice carries weight and garners attention in professional discussions, indicating that I've made a meaningful impact. However, I firmly believe in humility and valuing the contributions of others who have supported and guided me on this journey, be it family, teachers, or colleagues. It's important to always stay grounded, connect with people from all walks of life, and contribute positively to the community.

Sunayana Arora, CFO, Usha Food Imports

Sunayana Arora, who is also professionally known as Shelly Arora is CFO at Usha Food Imports and heads leadership responsibilities for the company's strategy, legal and compliance functions. She completed her B.Tech from Punjab Technical University and pursued an MBA in Marketing & Finance from SCMHRD in Pune, India. She is a Certified Indian as well as an Australian Financial Planner. With a diverse background that includes Samsung Electronics, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Citi Bank, and Westpac, she brings a wealth of experience to her role.