In a world where industries are rapidly evolving and the need for agile leadership is more pronounced than ever, Arshini Skandarajah, Chief Operating Officer of 3W Group, has continually demonstrated her ability to challenge norms and drive meaningful change. Her career, defined by bold decisions and a steadfast commitment to values, offers valuable lessons in innovation, resilience, and empowerment.
As a transformational specialist, Arshini’s leadership philosophy is rooted in challenging conventional practices. One of her most impactful strategies has been adopting a bottom-up approach to problem-solving and innovation. By empowering employees directly involved in operations to contribute to decision-making, she has unlocked practical, actionable insights that not only enhance efficiency but also foster a sense of ownership among team members. “When employees feel heard and valued, their engagement increases, and the solutions they propose are often the most sustainable,” she explains.
Arshini’s leadership style also includes implementing reverse mentoring programs, a concept that disrupts traditional hierarchical structures. She encourages millennials and Gen Z employees to mentor senior leaders, creating an environment where fresh perspectives and emerging trends are embraced. “Senior leaders are often seen as the sole sources of wisdom, but younger employees have unique insights that are invaluable in navigating today’s challenges,” she says. This initiative has not only bridged generational gaps but also cultivated a culture of diversity and adaptability within organizations.
Another hallmark of her leadership has been her focus on organizational culture. Arshini believes that culture is the foundation upon which strategies are built. “In any transformation project, I prioritize building trust and alignment among staff,” she notes. “Without a strong culture, even the most well-thought-out strategy will fail to sustain.” She has also made unconventional decisions during times of crisis, such as temporarily reducing an organization’s footprint. While this approach might seem counterintuitive, it allows companies to refocus resources, strengthen their foundation, and emerge stronger.
In her journey as a HR leader and certified business and life coach, Arshini has faced moments where standing up for her values came at a professional risk. One such instance involved managing the exit of an underperforming individual who could have tarnished her reputation by sharing negative feedback. Despite the potential fallout, she chose to act in the best interests of the organization and its stakeholders.
“Standing for what is right isn’t easy,” she reflects. “It requires deep introspection and the courage to prioritize long-term trust and credibility over immediate concerns.” These experiences have not only strengthened her resilience but have also reinforced her belief in the importance of ethical leadership. For her, the ability to navigate such challenges with integrity is a hallmark of true leadership.
As a woman, Arshini has had to navigate and disrupt deeply entrenched traditional practices, especially in male-dominated environments. Early in her career, she found herself working on factory floors where she was often the only woman present. “It wasn’t easy,” she recalls. “From dealing with shared spaces like washrooms to maintaining the same stamina as my male colleagues, I had to consistently prove my worth.”
Despite these challenges, she earned the respect and acceptance of her peers by staying focused and demonstrating her capabilities. Her experiences have shaped her mission to empower more women to break through societal and professional barriers. She recognizes that, in many Indian Tamil families, cultural expectations often place familial responsibilities above personal ambitions for women. While progress has been made, she emphasizes that much work remains to be done.
To address these challenges, she has dedicated herself to creating opportunities for women from underrepresented communities. Through mentorship programs, leadership initiatives, and advocacy, she aims to inspire women to embrace their potential and step into leadership roles. “I want to leave behind a legacy where women feel empowered to pursue their ambitions without hesitation,” she says.
Looking ahead, Arshini envisions a leadership landscape that is more inclusive, diverse, and adaptable. She believes that transformational leadership is not just about driving change but also about enabling others to rise and thrive. Her approach, which blends innovation, empathy, and a commitment to values, serves as a blueprint for leaders seeking to make a lasting impact.