Awesome AfriCAN Businesswoman: Parmi Natesan

Each week I profile dynamic business people who inspire me. This week I'd like to introduce you to Parmi Natesan, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Institute of Directors in South Africa (IoDSA)

Parmi Natesan, CEO of the IoDSA

1. Describe in eight words what it is that you do

I help make leaders more ethical and effective

2. What is the biggest myth that you would like to bust about your industry

That being a non-executive director is a “cushy” career with lots of money for little work.  Despite the number of board meetings, the responsibility and work in between meetings is immense.

3. If you could go back in time, what is your biggest business lesson that you would share with yourself on day one of starting your business?

Tough calls sometimes need to be made for the best of the business, so there is no use delaying them.

4. What excites you most about Africa?

The next generation – our children – who are so much more socially and environmentally  conscious than we were.  They will take this continent in the right direction.

5. What is the biggest lesson about money that you want to share with business owners?

You need to make decisions on company spending as if it was your own money - try to understand the value your company is getting in return for every bit of spend.

6. What is your favourite quote

Work it Harder

Make it Better

Do it Faster

Make it Stronger