'An idea can never be embarrassing'

1. What is your job like?
It is all about managing growth and expectations of all the stakeholders, whether it is the employees, management or customers.

2. What’s the smartest business idea you have ever had?
Our mobile stock trading (MST) application.

3. And the most embarrassing?
An idea can never be embarrassing. It may not work, but it should be given a fair shot otherwise we’ll never know the potential it may have had.

4. Who has been your biggest influence?
My mother. Whatever I know about management today, I’ve learnt from her.

5. How important is money to you?
Money is only as important as it solves the problems you have by not having money. Ultimately, one has to look at it dispassionately and with a degree of equanimity.

6. What is your most important work ethic or maxim that you practice everyday?
I have always believed in the principle of fairness. There are times when you have to make difficult calls, if you have tried to be fair, you sleep well.

7. What does your secretary think about you?
She says that I am less difficult to work with than she is.
8. Has your personal life suffered due to work?
There is a very thin line between professional and personal life. It is another story to learn to manage both smartly.

9. How do you want to be remembered by your colleagues?
Someone who is approachable; available to discuss new ideas or solve problems.

10. What are your working hours?
With a blackberry, one is working round the clock.

11. What is the most valuable memento in your office?
The “Best Brokerage Firm in India” trophy.

12. Does retirement scare you?
No active mind can actually retire.

13. Have you ever been tempted to start out on your own?
I have been lucky to be in a firm that places a premium on the freedom to think, work and take decisions. So in a sense, I have worked as a professional entrepreneur, if there is such a term.

14. What do you hate the most at work?
Lack of effort.

15. How do you unwind?
By spending quality time with family, watching my sons play tennis and being completely absorbed by it.