It is still a man’s world as far as family businesses are concerned with many father-son enterprises going full steam ahead. Or is it? Today, there is a rise in women-owned businesses with many mothers handing over the reins of the family business to their daughters. Admittedly, the numbers are still small as compared to the men but nevertheless, it is a move in the right direction. Veteran management consultant Pratibha Sheth founded Shilputsi three decades ago and provided advice to various organisations including multinational and Indian companies on organisation development, performance management, recruitment, and training. Her daughter Purvi Sheth is now the CEO of Shilputsi Consultants and this mother-daughter duo is breaking the monotony of patriarchal family business.  

Obviously the advantages of working together are many as Purvi says, “First of all, we have defined the vision and goals and know them well, making it easier to work towards these jointly. We are pulling together and making sure we are in the right direction as a united force. We are also in sync with each other’s areas of strength and ability. Working together helps us leverage each other’s skills and there is a basic compatibility that is already established.”

Apart from this, there is a certain comfort to speak one’s mind as well as be open and frank in discussions, knowing that these are professional and not personal views. She adds, “On the flip side, we do end up discussing work even at home!”  

Talking about the need for a strategic HR consultancy firm in India, Purvi explains that India is a large country with several business complexities that need the right kind of bespoke teams to provide the right HR strategy, process and plan.

Outside of work, the duo share common passions. Purvi explains, “We both love the company of people. It is this common love for people, diverse cultures and understanding of different personalities that probably keep us so excited about our business.” The duo also loves cooking for people, traveling, listening to music and watching movies!