Name: Javed Shafiq Rao

Title: Chief Executive Officer

Organisation: PPMS - Prestige Group

Javed Shafiq Rao is a dynamic leader at the helm of the Prestige Group's Property Management division. With a forward-thinking approach, he has driven innovation and operational excellence, focusing on technology integration and sustainable practices. Javed's vision extends beyond traditional facility management, emphasizing community engagement and customer-centric solutions.

Under his leadership, the Prestige Group has garnered accolades for enhancing resident experiences and setting new benchmarks in the industry. His commitment to creating livable and enjoyable communities reflects his passion for revolutionizing property management in India.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Javed's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

As a leader, I find balancing the diverse needs of multiple stakeholders—residents, team members, and corporate objectives—most challenging. Ensuring seamless communication, maintaining high service standards, and driving innovation while managing day-to-day operational demands require constant adaptability.

Additionally, navigating the evolving landscape of property management, particularly with the rapid integration of technology and sustainability initiatives, presents continuous challenges that demand strategic foresight and resilient leadership.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My journey to leadership began with a solid foundation in hospitality and a passion for creating unique, memorable experiences. Starting in an entry-level role, I quickly found myself drawn to managing complex operations and building strong, collaborative teams. My dedication to operational excellence and a knack for innovative thinking helped me rise through the ranks, eventually leading to my role as CEO of Property Management at Prestige Group.

Throughout my career, I’ve focused on continuous learning, mentoring others, and staying committed to sustainability and technological advancements. Navigating challenges, inspiring my team, and always keeping the customer at the heart of what we do have shaped my leadership journey. These values have not only driven the success of numerous high-profile projects but also earned recognition in the industry, for which I’m incredibly grateful.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

I start my day early, usually around 5:30 AM, with some quiet time for reflection and planning. This helps me set clear intentions for the day ahead. I then dedicate some time to physical activity, whether it’s a workout or a brisk walk, to get my energy levels up.

Once I’m ready for the day, I review my schedule and prioritize tasks, focusing on what’s most critical. My workdays are structured around key meetings, project reviews, and brainstorming sessions with my team. I make sure to carve out time for deep work—those uninterrupted periods where I can focus on strategic planning or problem-solving. Throughout the day, I try to stay flexible and adaptable, knowing that unexpected challenges can arise. I also ensure there’s time to connect with my team, whether through quick check-ins or more in-depth discussions.

In the evening, I wind down by reflecting on the day’s achievements and lessons, often jotting down notes or ideas for the future. I also make sure to spend quality time with my family, which is crucial for maintaining balance. By the time I’m ready to sleep, I feel accomplished and prepared to tackle the next day.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Recently, I was reminded of the crucial role adaptability plays and the importance of being open to fresh ideas. My team frequently brings forward innovative concepts, which we carefully assess and implement. As a leader, it’s easy to rely on established methods, but the ever-evolving business environment requires continuous adaptation.

When a project didn’t go as planned, we had to swiftly shift gears and adopt a new strategy. This experience highlighted the value of embracing diverse perspectives, remaining flexible, and being ready to change direction when needed. It’s a humbling reminder that continuous learning and adaptability are vital for growth and leadership success.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

One book that has profoundly impacted my leadership journey is "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey. This book fundamentally shifted my perspective on personal and professional effectiveness. Its principles of being proactive, prioritizing what truly matters, and striving for continuous improvement resonated deeply with me.

Early in my career, I often found myself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks and responsibilities. Covey's framework helped me realize the importance of focusing on what I can control, setting clear priorities, and fostering meaningful relationships. The concept of "beginning with the end in mind" guided me to set long-term goals and align my daily actions with those objectives.

This book didn’t just improve my productivity; it shaped my approach to leadership by emphasizing the value of integrity, empathy, and collaboration. It’s been a cornerstone of my growth, reminding me to lead with purpose and inspire others to reach their full potential.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

If I could offer one piece of advice to a young aspiring leader, it would be to "Embrace continuous learning and stay humble." Leadership is not about having all the answers but about being open to new ideas, learning from others, and adapting to change.

Cultivate a mindset of growth—seek out diverse perspectives, learn from failures, and never stop improving. At the same time, stay humble. Recognize the value of the team around you, listen actively, and lead with empathy. True leadership comes from inspiring others, fostering collaboration, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One meaningful story that stands out from my time as a leader occurred during a challenging project. We were managing a complex property development, and midway through, we encountered unexpected regulatory hurdles that threatened to derail both the timeline given to the community and the budget assigned for execution.

Rather than panic, I gathered my team, and we took a step back to reassess our approach. What made this experience so impactful was seeing the collective strength of the team. Everyone pitched in, brainstorming creative solutions and working tirelessly to navigate the obstacles.

One of my team members proposed an innovative solution that ultimately saved the timeline for this project. This experience not only reinforced the importance of teamwork and open communication but also reminded me of the incredible value in empowering others. It was a proud moment that truly highlighted the essence of leadership—guiding, supporting, and trusting your team to overcome challenges together.