Shayoni Mukherjee
Global Head of Partnership & Alliances, Encora
📍Bangalore, India
What qualities do you think leaders need to have in today’s world?
Today’s leaders must be ecosystem thinkers, not just decision-makers. In a world shaped by AI and constant change, leadership is about collaboration, adaptability, and the ability to connect technology to real human outcomes. The most impactful leaders build trust across partners, empower diverse voices, and turn innovation into meaningful value for customers and communities.
If you had to describe your leadership style in one word, what would it be and why?
Ecosystem-Driven. I believe leadership today is about building bridges – aligning partners, platforms, and people to create value that no single organization can achieve alone.
How does your company’s Pledge 1% program help shape the kind of workplace culture you believe in?
Pledge 1% reinforces the belief that business success and community impact should grow together, not separately. It helps create a culture where innovation is guided by purpose, encouraging teams to contribute their time, expertise, and technology to drive meaningful change. For me, it reflects the kind of workplace we strive to build at Encora – one that values collaboration, responsibility, and using our ecosystem to create positive outcomes beyond business.
This year marks the 7th year of Pledge 1%’s #WomenWhoLead campaign. How can companies champion and support female leadership?
Companies can champion female leadership by moving beyond intent to intentional action – creating clear pathways to leadership, investing in mentorship and sponsorship, and ensuring women have a seat at decision-making tables. True support comes from building inclusive ecosystems where diverse perspectives are not just welcomed but seen as essential to innovation, growth, and customer impact. When organizations empower women to lead, they strengthen collaboration, resilience, and the ability to solve complex challenges.
If you could write a note to your younger self on her first day of work, what would it say?
Trust your voice – it will become your greatest asset. Don’t shrink yourself to fit rooms; grow until the room expands with you. Stay curious, build relationships with intention, and remember that leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about creating space for others to rise alongside you.
