Introducing the “Women Who Lead” Podcast Series
This March, MARKETING-INTERACTIVE is thrilled to unveil the “Women Who Lead” podcast series, a tribute to the fierce female leaders in the marketing and advertising sectors across the region.
Episode One: Anu Gupta’s Inspiring Journey
The premiere episode features Anu Gupta, who shares her empowering story that begins with her student exchange program days at the age of 21 and leads to her current role as the director of APRW, an integrated communications agency located in Singapore. Anu candidly discusses her career breaks, the obstacles she faced, and her triumphant return to the industry. As a mother of two, she emphasizes the importance of family in her life.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Throughout her professional journey, Gupta has played an integral role in establishing APRW as a strategic ally for businesses eager to broaden their reach globally, especially in Indonesia. Before joining APRW, she founded Watermelon PR in 2003 while based in Dubai.
A Reflective Journey
MARKETING-INTERACTIVE: Can you share the journey that brought you to your current position as a director at APRW?
Gupta: When I reflect on my journey, I can trace a clear path to where I am now, even though life’s direction was uncertain at the start. I was raised in India and began my career in communications, despite studying economics. I was fortunate to land a job at a PR agency without understanding what public relations truly entailed, but I quickly discovered my aptitude for it.
I learned to see public relations as more of a science rather than just an art.
A few years later, I relocated to Dubai and established Watermelon PR after encouragement from a friend to start my own agency. I acknowledge that I was inexperienced as a leader, and there was a lot for me to learn.
In 2008, I moved to Singapore with my husband and chose to take a career break to focus on my family. Those years were transformative. In 2017, I re-entered the workforce and joined APRW after meeting one of their directors. At that time, I was 40 and decided to trust my instincts and love for the work, ultimately becoming the sixth owner to establish my own practice.
Overcoming Doubts and Transitioning Back to Work
MARKETING-INTERACTIVE: Did you experience moments of doubt during your career break?
Gupta: Definitely. I believe this feeling isn’t limited to women; many people who need a reset in life question their value. I often felt anxious, wondering whether I would find a job, if the timing to return was right, and whether I would still be a good mother. However, I have since learned to let go of those uncertainties; it’s a common experience during a career hiatus.
MARKETING-INTERACTIVE: What was it like to transition back to work after being away for so long?
Gupta: The transition was challenging in many aspects. On a personal level, I had to adjust to not being home all the time, where I had played an active role as a mother. I had to relinquish some control over household matters, which had defined my routine.
You need to have strong self-belief to affirm that you still possess relevant skills.
It’s crucial to allow yourself, your children, and your family time to acclimate to the changes. On the professional front, I was unsure about who would hire me, but I still believed in my capabilities and felt reassured by a colleague who trusted my experience.
Defining Moments in Professional Life
MARKETING-INTERACTIVE: What do you consider a defining moment in your career?
Gupta: Personally, I hold our expansion into Indonesia close to my heart. We initially thought it would be an easy endeavor, but reflecting on the past seven years, I realize how challenging it has been. I’ve experienced sleepless nights and questioned my choices, often pondering why I was away from my family.
Today, I take pride in what we have accomplished: the dynamic team we’ve built in Indonesia, the unique culture we’ve integrated into a new environment, and the numerous friendships we’ve forged since establishing ourselves there. Five years ago, APRW was nearly unknown in Indonesia, and now I consider myself fortunate to have made many wonderful connections.
Listen to Anu Gupta’s Insights
To hear more of Anu Gupta’s inspiring conversation, tune into the “Women Who Lead” podcast series on Spotify, or listen while you’re on the move:
Stay Connected
Keep up with our latest episodes by following us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Telegram. Join us on April 3rd for #Content360, an event focusing on three core themes: Conquering Media Fragmentation, From Ideas to Impact, and Balancing Authenticity with Technology. Learn how to craft engaging content with creativity, critical thinking, and confidence with us at Content360!
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