At 33, Radhika Gupta became one of the youngest CEOs in India. She heads Edelweiss Asset Management, one of the largest Asset Management Companies (AMC) in India with Assets Under Management (AUM) of over Rs 86,949 crores.
Radhika's journey began with a hurdle that set her apart from her peers. Born with a broken neck, she faced not only the physical pain and complications that came with it but also the emotional toll of feeling different. Her condition, known as 'Torticollis', or "crooked neck" as Gupta describes, is a rare and challenging one where the neck muscles contract involuntarily, causing the head to tilt to one side.
Her father's diplomatic career meant the family frequently moved countries, making it hard for Radhika to settle and fit in, especially during her time at an American International School in Nigeria.
Radhika's passion for academics helped her pursue a globally recognized education and a career in management consulting.
She faced rejection from several firms early in her career, which led to a brief period of contemplation about suicide. Her best friend's timely intervention helped her seek help and persevere.
An unexpected shared interest in bridge with her interviewer helped her secure a job interview with McKinsey, where she was eventually hired.
Radhika's Wall Street career began with McKinsey and led her to co-found Forefront Capital Management, a financial services business at 25 after moving to India.
The business thrived and was eventually sold to Edelweiss Financial Services, leading Radhika to her role as CEO of Edelweiss Asset Management.
Despite her many achievements, Radhika considers her greatest one to be "embracing her imperfections and recognizing that they do not detract from her beauty." Radhika is also the author of a book titled 'Limitless.'