Renu Sud Karnad, MD, HDFC Ltd

How difficult was it to rise to the top?

I would say it is like juggling between personal and work front – you can't let go of either. Sometimes, one takes priority over the other, depending on the need.

I have been fortunate to have a supportive family, which helped ease out the stress and create the required balance. Also, the support of the fabulous team at HDFC gives me courage and conviction to go ahead in spite of the challenges.

What are the typical obstacles women managers face?

Even today, it has been observed that women, though fewer, tend to drop out at mid-management levels due to work and personal pressures and other work-related issues. But with policies on supportive environment, maternity benefit, in-house crèches, sexual harassment at workplace, etc, this trend has been reversing.

Your advice to young women managers?

You are only as good as what you bring to the table. My advice to all young executives is that they should get rid of this concept of gender differences when it comes to work. Each individual has the potential to contribute in her own unique way. Success will surely follow.