Kaizin Sadri

What are you most proud of in your career so far? 

Upon completion of my postgraduate course from Leeds in 2016, I went back to India to take up a full-time role at a leading MNC, focusing on developing strategic communication for domestic and international clients.

During my stint, we worked on a social awareness campaign around sensitizing key stakeholders around a crime against women, which was a recipient of a global recognition at Cannes and went on to secure several awards in the year.

Having worked with people coming in from diverse cultures set me up with building strong rapport with clients across the globe. This played a critical role in building up my confidence to take up bigger roles at a corporate level.

My experience with another leading consumer durable giant, created a humbling experience for me to learn more about handling communications in companies having a major diaspora of people speaking regional languages. Such an experience helped me effectively use my knowledge to help fortify communications process across the organization through digital, visual storytelling and creative content.

Having also worked as an Independent consultant for almost two years, I went onto consult domestic and international companies around sustainability communications - through content, branding, and social media communications. 

At present, I am back working with the financial services industry. I am currently working with Mahindra Home Finance, one of India's largest NBFC's and top 30 Great Places to Work of 2022. Being entrusted with the portfolio of handling communications and employer branding, I have been working towards building a vital transformation in the organization through continued efforts around communications, content and social media.

Tell us how studying at Leeds helped you to be successful in your career

I think I cannot give enough credit to my experiences at Leeds that have helped me shape up my expertise, rediscover myself and work on honing skills that are vital for acing the workplace.

I started my first role with little to no background in financial services. Over time, I developed a strong knowledge around understanding the business nuances. My time at Leeds helped me feel secure enough to take on challenges with confidence and develop an attitude to learn and persevere towards making it a success.

Secondly, the exposure to different cultures and mindsets helped me develop a habit of always looking out to learn from people and their experiences. At the same time, I also learnt about navigating and networking with people coming from various walks of life that are essential for building a rapport.

Thirdly, as a woman, finding your place in this big world has always been a challenge. However, Leeds helped me find my feet and empowered me with the ability to view the world from various different perspectives and accept the ones that truly can help make a difference.

What words of advice would you share with other students and graduates?

My personal advice would be to stay committed and true to yourself. This will help find the right kind of roles.

If you want to make an impact and pursue a full-time role in communications then, you must learn to understand/embed yourself into the business. Once you understand the business well yourself only then you can explain it to others. That's what our aim always is.

You must keep abreast with the shifting trends in technology and the industry to stay relevant in the field and ensure that your client/organisation rides on the wave of any digital transformation.

Last but not least is nurturing a creative mindset. In a world where ideas get quickly adapted/replicated, you need to help your client/business find its own voice and style. Consistency and focus can help you build a stronger brand.