In a professional world wired for speed, Dhanya Rajeswaran stands out for her deliberate leadership. A seasoned leader with over two decades of experience, Dhanya, Global Vice President and Country Managing Director at Fluence, shares her narrative in this unplugged conversation about navigating remote work, driving diversity, and the power of intentionality – both personally and professionally.
The Complex Truth of Hybrid Work
Dhanya Rajeswaran’s early introduction to remote work dates back 15 years – an era that was not ready for videoconferencing. “It was incredibly difficult,” she admits. “Back then, just connecting with your team meant picking up a phone, not clicking a button.” Despite today’s advanced tools, she believes the challenge of connection persists: “Everything needs to be scheduled; even if it was a simple conversation.” She emphasizes the future choices, and that was not choosing between remote or on-site work but striking a balance between the two. “A hybrid world is important. There is life, there are needs, and the solution lies in designing systems that meet both.”
Renewables and Representation: A Call to Action
Working in the renewable energy sector, Dhanya highlights the need for more women in the industry. “Sustainable futures are only possible if diverse thoughts and perspectives come in to solve these problems.” Fluence, where women represent 20% of the workforce – a number that’s nearly double the industry average – demonstrates the actions of intentional hiring. “The barriers to entry are lower than you think,” she insists. “All you need is to hone in on your core expertise and make it happen.”
The Power of Intentionality
Dhanya’s message to young professionals, especially women, is clear: Intentionality is everything. Citing her mother’s pursuit of a PhD at 69, she says, “She never gave up her dream. That kind of clarity—knowing who you want to be—is what drives real success.”
One unique practice Dhanya recommends is writing your resume every year: “It keeps you honest. Are you growing? Are you adding new skills? You need to be ready—not just waiting—for opportunity.”
Creating Inclusive Cultures, One Team at a Time
While policy-level inclusivity has progressed, Dhanya emphasizes the importance of culture at a micro level. “It’s time we move beyond company-wide mandates and look at individual team cultures,” she says. “Is every voice being heard? Are high performers, regardless of gender, being recognized?”
Her advice is simple but vital: “Every team leader must be equipped to build a high-performing, inclusive team.”
Beware of the Comfort Zone
Dhanya closes with a sharp insight: “Your biggest hurdle can be your own success.” Staying too long in a comfort zone, she warns, can quietly stall growth. “If I ever feel too comfortable, it’s a red flag. That’s when I know I need to push harder.”
From designing hybrid ecosystems to leading with intent and inclusion, Dhanya Rajeswaran’s journey offers inspiration rooted in real-world grit. “Clarity, intentionality, and the courage to move—even when it’s uncomfortable—that’s where growth truly begins.”
Catch Dhanya’s unplugged version of her journey where she shares more about values and leadership. Click Here
