Sakshi Gupta’s journey in logistics is a powerful narrative of leadership, mentorship, and the transformative potential of embracing change, both personally and professionally.
BE the CHANGE, TO make the CHANGE
Sakshi Gupta, Country Manager—India, Air Logistics Group, brings a unique perspective to the logistics sector, emphasising the power of women’s contributions. “Where there is a woman, there is magic,” she states, highlighting the value of diverse viewpoints in driving innovation and adaptability. Gupta actively champions women in logistics, orchestrating events showcasing thriving professionals. These narratives of resilience inspire aspiring leaders. Cultivating spaces for women to connect, learn, and flourish honours achievements and empowers the next generation. “Leadership,” she believes, “arises from being a good mentor…guiding teammates like a sherpa.” A leader elevates efficiency through empathy, resilience, mentorship, problem-solving, and active listening.” As a mentor, she emphasises that “no peak is insurmountable,” highlighting intense focus, embracing scale, taking micro steps, preparing for the unexpected, not giving up, befriending fear, and being mindful of ROTI (return on time investment). A good leader and mentor cultivates strong teams through connection, collaboration, celebration, and encouragement.”
Key to success
Gupta stresses adaptability and continuous improvement. “Reflect, realign & keep moving,” she advises. The destination remains constant, but the path can be improved. Don’t be rigid; step back, pause, and adjust. Goals are about direction, not perfection. Long-term success isn’t just setting goals—it’s refining them. “Success isn’t about sticking to the conventional plan at all costs,” she emphasizes. Embrace “the New & the Swift,” knowing when to tweak strategy, ensuring momentum towards achieving the pinnacle.
A journey of growth
Gupta calls herself an “accidental logistician,” acknowledging both choice and chance in her career path. “The journey in logistics has been challenging yet fulfilling and exciting,” she reflects. She believes one must not compete externally but strive for personal growth, be impeccable at work, be empathetic towards colleagues, and deliver with humility, embracing criticism as constructive feedback. “My team is my greatest asset, the foundation upon which the organisation stands,” she asserts. Her rise from a homemaker to Country Manager of a leading global GSA speaks to her quest and thirst for achievement. For her, the recipe for success is being equipped with an arsenal of hunger, dedication, and discipline. The formula is Passion + Perseverance + Preparation = Performance.
The power of the first hour
Gupta believes that leadership is about impact, not just position. She highlights the importance of intentional planning, particularly the use of the first hour of the day. “The ‘first hour of your day’ is most ‘powerful’—it’ sets the tone for everything that follows,” she explains. She encourages replacing mindless scrolling with intentional activities. “Small tweaks, big impacts—from impactful conversations to new opportunities, we continue to build, inspire, and grow together.” BE the CHANGE, TO make the CHANGE.”
