In a remarkable story of corporate courage and leadership, Mahindra Group CEO and Managing Director Anish Shah revealed that just one month into his tenure at the company, he respectfully disagreed with a proposal put forth by none other than his billionaire boss, Anand Mahindra. That moment, which occurred eleven years ago, has since become a pivotal example of the open, empowering culture that defines the Mahindra Group today.
Recounting the incident in an interview with PTI Videos, Shah explained that during his first month as head of group strategy, he was presented with a proposal that was due to be discussed at the upcoming board meeting. After reviewing the plan, he expressed strong reservations. “I saw that and said I wouldn’t do this, and here are the reasons why,” Shah recalled.
Rather than dismissing the concerns of a new junior executive, Anand Mahindra encouraged Shah to attend the board meeting and present his viewpoint. “Anand, in his usual style, turned around and said, ‘Okay, I'm going to invite you to the board meeting tomorrow and ask you exactly the same question. I want you to give the board the same answer you gave me today.’”
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The next day, Shah did just that. After presenting his rationale to the board, the proposal was ultimately rejected. The moment became a defining testament to the leadership philosophy championed by Mahindra: seek the best answer, not the most senior voice.
“That gives you a sense of the openness Anand has always had in bringing in diverse views,” Shah said. “As he always says, we need to get to the right answer for the company.”
Shah, who became CEO and MD in April 2021, is now known for promoting a culture where constructive dissent is welcomed. He views disagreement from junior colleagues not as a challenge to authority, but as a valuable contribution. “To me, I would take a ‘no’ as a gift,” he explained. “It’s not easy for someone three levels below to speak up. That’s sometimes where the best ideas come from.”
Addressing the common misconception that CEOs rule by power alone, Shah stressed that effective leadership comes from inspiration and trust. “A good leader gets things done because others want to do it, not because they have to,” he said.
He also credited Mahindra Group’s continued success to its emphasis on empowerment, innovation, and a values-driven culture rooted in its founding principles from 1945. These include respect for the dignity of labour, meritocracy regardless of caste, creed, or colour, and a deep sense of social responsibility.
Shah pointed out that Anand Mahindra stepping aside from day-to-day operations while continuing to provide strategic guidance has also played a crucial role in enabling professional leadership to thrive. “He has always empowered the leaders and is always available for guidance,” Shah said. “That empowerment has been key to our success.”
Reflecting on the company’s philosophy of decentralization and trust, Shah emphasized that Mahindra’s innovation often comes from those closest to the customer. “Empowerment goes beyond just one level—it extends to people who are on the front lines. They understand customers’ needs better and are best placed to innovate,” he noted.
With a reputation as a “people’s CEO,” Anish Shah continues to lead one of India’s most respected conglomerates by fostering an open culture, encouraging bold ideas, and redefining what it means to lead in the modern business world.
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