Challenges of being a woman CFO

• Saradha Govindarajan is the CFO of Veranda Learning which secured stakes in J.K. Shah Classes for a staggering INR 337 crores.
• Despite her professional success, Saradha has faced her fair share of gender biases both personal life and in the workplace.
• At The Finance Story Bangalore event, Saradha was asked to share her strategies for overcoming these obstacles.
• Here is her answer.

Women are expected to manage all household chores

I often think about an experience shared by Twinkle Khanna that really resonates with me.

While she was at a book launch, someone asked her what was for lunch. Her male counterpart, Akshay Kumar, was not questioned about the same.

This incident highlights a broader issue: despite our leadership roles, we, as female leaders, are often scrutinized for balancing professional and personal lives in ways that men are not.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help – be it at home or work

Even in my own life, I frequently face questions and expectations related to home responsibilities.

Societal norms still largely place the burden of household management on women.

My advice is to embrace help at home without worrying about judgment. It’s essential to prioritize your well-being and efficiency.

Also read: How this CA branched out of conservative household & built her practice in finance. Today both her sisters are CAs.

Gender bias in the workplace

I remember an instance where a younger male controller received more attention and respect than I did.

Such experiences highlight the ongoing gender-related disparities in professional settings.

However, I have learned that making myself heard and demonstrating my value are crucial steps toward overcoming these barriers. It’s important to assert yourself, despite any misconceptions or biases you might face.

Pick the right workplace environment

When it comes to the differences between male and female CFOs, I have found that choosing the right work environment is key.

A supportive and respectful setting can make a significant difference. However, there are still instances where gender biases come into play.

Also read: Lessons I learned interviewing women CFOs – CA Nidhi Agarwal’s journey to inspire more women to take up leadership roles

Make your voice heard

My message is simple: we, as female leaders, need to actively break through barriers and advocate for ourselves.

It may take time for others to recognize and appreciate our contributions, but it’s essential to voice out and assert our value.

Embracing these challenges and striving to be heard can lead to greater recognition and respect in our professional lives.