Fallen in Love with Alcobev
Not content with investing her entire career in just one sector and one job, Anchal Kaushal moved from the telecommunications industry to the alcoholic beverages sector where she finally found the buzz and thrill that she had been looking for. Now Vice President (Customer Marketing), Diageo India, she finds the environment of new launches, innovative strategies and the opportunity to interact with consumers as the high points of a profession that she has fallen in love with.
It was her yearning for fresh experiences that drove Anchal Kaushal to her tryst with alcoholic beverages industry. Else, she would have stayed with Airtel, the telecommunications company, where she spent nearly five years in the role of product marketing. With a leap of faith, she joined Pernod Ricard where over the next seven years she undertook diverse roles across premium and luxury brands, playing pivotal roles in marketing and brand management. And then, driven by her quest for knowledge and a profound passion for whisky tasting, she found herself drawn to Scotland.
There, she delved into the world of distilleries, obtaining certification as a taster and even launching her own venture to conduct whisky tastings. Despite these entrepreneurial pursuits, her corporate ambition remained steadfast, prompting Anchal to transition to Diageo. Initially serving as the Regional Customer Marketing Head for the North India region, her unwavering dedication and contributions culminated in her current role where she continues to thrive.
Courage and Strength
As an individual, Anchal firmly embraces the values of courage, collaboration and authenticity. “Courage runs deep within me, propelling me to take risks, advocate for my beliefs, and challenge the status quo,” she says. Authenticity is paramount in her approach, guiding her to lead with honesty and integrity, thereby fostering a circle of trust among her colleagues. This commitment to authenticity further cultivates collaboration, facilitating in creating an inclusive environment where everyone’s contributions are respected.
Anchal firmly believes that as women leaders, their strength transcends individual prowess and lies in their collective efforts to effect positive changes, dismantle barriers, defy stereotypes, and pave the path for future generations of confident and purpose-driven women leaders. She emphasises on the importance of seeking mentors who champion growth, allies who offer unwavering support, and opportunities that challenge a person to expand and evolve.
Workplace Environment
According to Anchal, the journey of gender dynamics in workplaces has seen progress amidst enduring challenges. Historically male- dominated, workplaces posed systemic barriers to women’s entry and advancement. Yet, a gradual shift towards greater gender equality and inclusivity has emerged over time.
At Diageo, her success is deeply rooted in the company’s diverse and adaptable corporate culture. “Here, we all freely express ideas, fostering empowerment regardless of gender or background,” she states. With Diageo leading in diversity efforts, such attempts elevate women into leadership roles and support underrepresented groups, Anchal opines.
