Name:  Latha Mathuri Kinnera

Title: SAP FICO freelancer consultant and trainer

Organisation: Freelancer

Overall 17+ Years in Operational Management including IT, Accounts & Finance and freelancer SAP FICO trainer.

She had dealt with international client Warner Bros. while working with Cap Gemini, for supporting SAP FICO Account Payables process from offshore.

She is having in-depth knowledge in Finance & Accounts besides her knowledge in SAP FICO customization, configuration, testing and Part of Artificial Intelligence.

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

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

Cheers,

Jonno White

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

One of the most challenging tasks as a leader is navigating and resolving conflicts within a team while maintaining a positive and productive work environment.

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

Becoming a leader often involves a combination of innate qualities and learned skills. In my case, I developed leadership qualities from an early age. During my school days, I served as a class leader, which provided opportunities to understand the dynamics of leading a group. Continuously guiding and supporting others during challenging times allowed me to cultivate empathy and resilience.

As I progressed through various experiences, both in and out of academic settings, I refined my communication skills, decision-making abilities, and the capacity to inspire and motivate others. Actively seeking leadership roles in projects or teams allowed me to further hone my organizational and problem-solving skills.

Consistency in displaying integrity, accountability, and a willingness to collaborate with others played a crucial role in gaining the trust and respect of peers. Embracing challenges as learning opportunities and being adaptable in various situations contributed to my growth as a leader.

Ultimately, the journey involved a commitment to personal development, a genuine interest in the well-being of those I led, and a continuous willingness to learn and adapt to new situations.

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

1. Morning Routine:

- Wake up early for a productive start.

- Begin with a brief meditation to set a positive tone for the day.

- Take a short walk for fresh air and light exercise.

2. Work Blocks:

- Schedule focused work blocks, incorporating breaks to maintain productivity.

- Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance.

- Allocate specific time for addressing critical issues from colleagues or team members.

3. Midday Break:

- Take a longer break for lunch and recharge.

- Consider incorporating a brief walk or stretching routine to combat midday fatigue.

4. Afternoon Productivity:

- Resume work, addressing critical issues and collaborating with team members.

- Utilize time management techniques to stay on track.

5. Evening Wind-Down:

- Plan to wind down work-related tasks as the evening approaches.

- Spend time connecting with family or friends.

6. Dinner and Relaxation:

- Enjoy a balanced dinner.

- Engage in a relaxing activity to unwind, such as reading or watching a non-stimulating TV show.

7. Night Routine:

- Set a specific time to finish work-related activities.

- Consider a short evening meditation or mindfulness practice.

- Disconnect from electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime.

8. Quality Sleep:

- Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

- Establish a consistent sleep schedule for better overall well-being.

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

A key leadership lesson is the importance of adapting leadership styles to suit different situations and team members. What works well in one scenario may not be effective in another, emphasizing the need for flexibility and situational awareness.

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?

"Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek emphasizes the importance of leaders prioritizing the well-being of their team, creating a sense of trust and collaboration. The lessons from the book highlight the transformative impact of selfless leadership on organizational culture and success.

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

I would advise young leaders to prioritize continuous learning and adaptability. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, stay open to feedback, and remain flexible in your leadership approach as you navigate diverse situations and teams.

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

A meaningful leadership story involves a leader who empowered their team, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. This leader encouraged diverse perspectives, recognized individual strengths, and celebrated collective achievements, creating a positive and high-performing work environment.