Leading a team of over 50 designers pan India, Niroopa Padmanabhan – Vice President Design, Smartworks, talks about the changing times for women in the design and real estate sector, her professional journey/career highlights, and how she notices growth in women leading design functions across pan India.
1. Can you give us a brief insight into your design journey?
With over 17 years in the design industry, I have worked on diverse projects that have given me a comprehensive understanding of various design segments, including corporate, commercial, coworking, and residential. My experience with leading companies in real estate has given me a wealth of experience, sharpened my skills, and significantly influenced the growth trajectory of my career. As Vice President- Design at Smartworks, India’s largest managed workspace platform, I oversee workspace designing for enterprise clients over a portfolio of over 7 Mn sq.ft., leading a team of over 50 designers pan India.
2. From design school to a full-fledged professional, what were your high points and low points in this field?
My journey has been exciting and challenging. My extensive knowledge of design principles, project management, and client relations have helped me shape my growth over these years.
It’s been a rewarding journey, from landing my first job and working on challenging ‘first-ever’ projects to earning rewards and accolades. These were incredibly satisfying and confirming events that have helped me boost my self-assurance in my skills.
But it came with its share of obstacles and setbacks. Battling for work-life balance and attending to personal obligations while managing workload, deadlines, and team and client management has been challenging. But along the line, I had adequate learning and Development opportunities, and the immense support I received from my manager and team has been incredible. I have successfully weathered challenges while simultaneously building a successful career thanks to my persistence, optimism, and pursuit of learning opportunities.
3. Any one turning point in your career that you wish to highlight
There were a couple of them. The first turning point was when I transitioned from being a designer to a leadership role- it was a game-changer. It was no longer just about yourself, but it was about a team. This change required a new mindset and approach to avoid any pitfalls. Although initially challenging, the shift provided an excellent personal and professional growth opportunity. It helped me develop new skills like team management, project oversight, and strategic planning.
My decision to work in the flex space segment was another pivotal moment in my career. While there was pressure to keep up with the newest trends and technologies because of this fast-growing area of the design industry, it also gave me a fresh viewpoint on how design might be used to make practical, supportive, and motivational workspaces. Designing and creating workspaces that inspire and make employees productive is fulfilling.
4. The industry is still largely male-dominated – why do you think that is?
The male-dominated corporate design industry can be attributed to historical and cultural factors. Furthermore, there may be unconscious biases towards male designers due to the lack of female representation in leadership positions, but this is changing now. The industry has come a long way in terms of Diversity and Inclusion. Nowadays, you see many women leading design functions across sectors considering the unique perspective women bring to the table.
5. With changing times, what would be your advice to upcoming women leaders on navigating the construction/design world?​
The design industry is constantly evolving; thus, one should be ready to adapt to new technologies, materials, and practices. And the construction and design sectors are no exception when it comes to the requirement for versatility, open-mindedness, and excellent communication in leadership roles.
The next essential step is to educate oneself by seeking formal education and training in architecture and design. A strong basis and technical understanding will be provided, helping one to make decisions.
As a women leader, you will face challenges, but the journey begins with self-belief. Self-assurance in your abilities, a commanding presence, willingness to receive input, and determination to improve will take you a long way.
Finally, I’ll urge all the women in leadership positions to support diversity and inclusiveness at work and create a supportive environment for every team member.