Decoding the global Indian

Fortune India
17 August 2015

What does it take to be one? Business leaders with strong global resumes tell us.

The key qualities that mark global Indians include the ability to look at issues from multiple perspectives, and familiarity with geopolitics and its implications for commerce. They must be comfortable in different work environments and sensitive to foreign cultures. They must be able to grasp the nuances while being attentive to the local scene. The global Indian has to be a quick learner of languages and be able to relate to foreigners. The ability to draw on metaphors and analogies from Indian history and culture would be a big advantage because it can help them connect with expats and relate to them what's going on in India. Such leaders are sincere, humble, and nonjudgemental. They are proud of India and aware of its opportunities and challenges. They bring the world to India and take India to the world.

— Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group