Gangapriya Chakraverti was brought up in a family that valued hard work and excellence – two qualities that help in her daily role as site lead and managing director for Ford Business Solutions in India.
“My parents always set the bar high, were selfless and provided all the support and encouragement that I needed,” she explained. “What my parents gave me was taken to the next level after marriage when my partner showed me that I had wings to fly.”
Gangapriya joined Ford in 2012 as director of human resources and is now responsible for ensuring FBS’s 9,000 Chennai based employees get the support and services they need. She loves her role and enjoys learning from colleagues, but says it often requires her to work outside of her comfort zone.
“I’m an introvert, but my job requires me to be in the spotlight. I take time to recover from these public interactions by spending time with myself or in the company of people who are really close to me.”
Gangapriya has spent most of her life in Chennai and says the city’s vibrant culture and easy access to live performances stokes her passion for Indian classical dance.
“I love exploring new places, meeting people and understanding cultures so I like travelling. What's fascinating for me as a traveler is the commonalities that exist across cultures and the values that bind humans together,” she explained. “I also love being surrounded by nature - forests, beaches, mountains. Whether it is just hiking or bird watching, I could spend hours and days outdoors.”
But it’s those closest to Gangapriya that provide her with the biggest source of inspiration.
“My son challenges me and is constantly educating me to stay relevant in the modern world. If there is one person who is constantly inspiring me, it is my son who is always throwing new perspectives to challenge my thoughts and beliefs.”