Mumbai's Mahilas: Gaitry Iyer
Brigid Connell (BC): Can you tell me a little bit about what you do for a living and how you got into it?
Gaitry Iyer (GI): I am currently working as Senior Director, Life Sciences BPS at Cognizant. I am a molecular biologist by training with a Ph.D. from Purdue University. I worked as research faculty at University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and later joined Warner Lambert Parke Davis, which became Pfizer in 2001. With almost two decades of work experience in both academia and pharma industry in the US, I moved to Mumbai and became part of organizations that provide offshore support to the pharma industry in the areas of clinical development and drug safety.
BC: What is one of your favourite things about your job?
GI: Business development and strategy for life sciences with emphasis on developing skill set in India to provide high end services to the pharma industry.
BC: Who or what do you think has been one of your biggest influences, both personally and professionally?
GI: My spouse Dr. Ramakrishnan Iyer. He is my inspiration to pursue both my personal and professional goals.
BC: What is one of your favorite things about living in Mumbai?
GI: Mumbai is a dynamic city, full of energy. Despite the obvious chaos everywhere, I am amazed to see how it manages to grow and flourish to provide opportunities to one and all. The vibe and enthusiasm around me is infectious. It is both frustrating and satisfying at the same time to live here.
BC: What was the most recent book you read?
GI: 'Lean In' by Sheryl Sandberg
BC: What type of advice would you give to young women living in India right now about how to succeed?
GI: Be strong and have faith. Do the right thing always and you will get rewarded. Especially in India, women should "be there" for each other. Don't be jealous of other women in your life. This is what brings us down! Use them as your support system.
BC: Have you had any personal experiences with gender stereotypes in your profession or your industry?
GI: Not as obvious as in other careers but it exists. For example, getting paid less to do the same job or being passed over for promotions because you choose to not play golf or go out for drinks after work.
BC: What do you think is one of the most effective platforms for change in this society?
GI: Social awareness via any type of messaging - TV, newspapers, internet, etc. Also, teaching our children early on in life about respect irrespective of gender, color or social status.
BC: What is something that you've worked on that you're particularly proud of?
GI: My children - my pride and joy! My heart is filled with sheer happiness when I see both my daughters as sensitive, caring, and hardworking women. I take tremendous pride when I see their willingness to help fellow humans so selflessly. At the end of the day, my family brings me the sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.
Mumbai's Mahilas is an interview series conducted by Brigid Connell, Programme Development Intern, Asia Society India Centre. The series explores the diversity and drive of Mumbai's women, both personally and professionally. All women, especially those who are leaders in their field and who create change in their communities, were encouraged to participate. Interviews cover women's backgrounds, professions, successes, interests, reflections, and advice for other women. Any views or opinions presented in this series are solely those of the individuals and do not represent those of the Asia Society India Centre.