For our August India Employee Spotlight, we want to highlight the insight of a valued team member at GDT. Sumnima is a part of our Finance & Accounting department in Bangalore. As we celebrate Women’s Equality Day and our core value of prioritizing diversity, we take a moment to recognize the contributions of Sumnima. Her journey embodies both resilience and commitment!
How long have you been with GDT, and what does your role entail?
Sumnima: I’ve been with GDT for just a little less than 2 years now. I’m primarily handling AP operations, and I also assist with statutory compliance and related tasks.
Can you describe your team and its dynamics?
Sumnima: We are a close-knit team of four, including myself. Leading the team is Ravishankar Mohan, GDT India’s Finance Controller. He oversees and supervises the day-to-day financial activities, regulates company budgets, and ensures compliance with tax laws and financial reporting requirements. Next in line is Manigandan K, Finance Team Lead, responsible for preparing and handling the company’s overall financials including payroll. Lastly, we have Varun Lepakshi, managing end-to-end processes under Mani’s review and guidance.
Can you share a past or current project or accomplishment that you’re particularly proud of here at GDT?
Sumnima: I joined GDT towards the end of 2022. I had to complete documentation for a year’s work, something that’s crucial for statutory audits. The work was too time-consuming and seemed never-ending, and we were speedily approaching our financial year-end. I stretched for long hours and worked on many weekends to complete the project. I feel proud of delivering what was asked of me within a short period.
What do you enjoy most about working at GDT? What motivates you to come to work every day?
Sumnima: I appreciate that we have access to learning platforms that help us in upscaling our abilities. Coming to work allows me to interact closely with a team of professionals, gain insight into the nature of their roles, exchange ideas and opinions, discuss processes, have friendly banters, and share meals. I would not get to experience all of this if I worked from home.
Our core value of August is “We Prioritize Diversity.” Can you share an example of how diverse perspectives have led to innovation or success in your team?
Sumnima: Individually, we have different roles and responsibilities. However, it is only through collaborating with each other that we can successfully complete the statutory audits on time, and accurately, for the second consecutive year.
What other aspects of our organizational vision, mission, or values resonate with you?
Sumnima: The organization’s drive for attaining growth and excellence through responsiveness and integrity are some of the attributes that I strongly resonate with.
August 26th is International Women’s Equality Day. What does Women’s Equality Day mean to you personally?
Sumnima: This day reminds me of the evident differences between men and woman and yet the strong resemblances we share in terms of ideas, vision, dreams, aspirations, and intellect. This underscores the need for equal opportunities and growth prospects.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in your profession, and how have you overcome them?
Sumnima: As a woman, I’ve had my own fears and concerns. During the initial stage of my career, timing was an issue since office cabs were not provided in my prior company, and I was introduced to a completely new process. Keeping safety in mind, I would have to log off regardless of whether or not I had finished my work. I would sit on weekends trying to understand the process better and work on my doubts, which eventually helped me gain pace and complete work faster.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people may not know?
Sumnima: I have this peculiar sense of humor that not everyone gets.
Where would you say is your favorite place to be or travel to?
Sumnima: That would have to be my hometown, Shillong. You never grow weary of the hills and their breathtaking beauty.
What advice would you give the younger you?
Sumnima: I’d tell my younger self, “Believe in yourself and trust your gut. Don’t let the opinions of others cloud your judgment. And please do not linger on your thoughts. Only put your attention where it’s most needed.”
As we conclude this spotlight, it’s clear that our featured employee’s story is one of perseverance, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the values that drive GDT! We’re proud to have such inspiring individuals as part of our team, and we look forward to seeing the continued impact of her contributions as we strive toward greater equality and excellence together.
