Mitul Doshi, currently Vice President of Finance at Shopse Digital Finance, a leading fintech company specializing in digital financial services. With a strong background in finance and a proven track record in the industry, Mitul plays a pivotal role in overseeing the financial operations and strategies of the company. Mitul’s career is marked by extensive experience in financial management, strategic planning, and operational excellence. Before joining Shopse Digital Finance, he held Senior Leadership positions in Finance for prominent organizations across diverse sectors such as AdTech, Tech, SaaS, CRM, and Fintech, where he demonstrated his expertise in driving financial growth, optimizing processes, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Mitul is known for his analytical acumen and strategic mindset, which enable him to navigate complex financial landscapes and deliver actionable insights. He is adept at leveraging technology to streamline financial processes and improve efficiency. His ability to lead cross-functional teams and foster collaboration across departments has been crucial in driving Shopse Digital Finance’s success.
Can you walk me through your career trajectory and what led you to your current role?
Over the past 15 years, I’ve focused on Strategic Finance and Business Leadership, specializing in driving organizational growth, ensuring operational excellence, and optimizing financial health across diverse sectors such as AdTech, Tech, SaaS, CRM, and Fintech. Early in my career, I developed a keen interest in aligning financial strategies with broader organizational goals. This passion led me to champion initiatives that not only enhanced profitability but also fostered sustainable growth. My approach has always been centred around implementing strategic visions, optimizing global financial management practices, and spearheading initiatives that drive efficiency and mitigate risks. Throughout my professional trajectory, I have continually sought opportunities to innovate within financial processes, leveraging automation to improve accuracy and streamline operations. This commitment to excellence in financial management has been pivotal in supporting the financial stability and success of the organizations I have served. Today, as a Strategic Finance and Business Leader, I have the privilege of using my experience and skills to guide organizations through intricate financial landscapes, ensuring they thrive in dynamic markets. My path to this role has been driven by a commitment to excellence, a passion for strategic thinking, and a dedication to delivering tangible value through sound financial management.
In the last decade or two, what are some of the biggest transformations you’ve witnessed in the financial sector?
In the last decade or two, the financial sector has undergone significant transformations. Finance has evolved from basic data entry and audits to becoming trusted advisors for CEOs and management. Finance leaders now play a crucial role in data-driven decision-making and automating manual processes, which profoundly impact organizational strategies and operations. Another major transformation is the increased recognition and importance of knowledge and skills in the finance sector. This shift is particularly noticeable in startups, where hands-on experience and foundational work are essential for developing successful finance departments and establishing data-driven organizational practices. As the saying goes, “Do not chase success; pursue excellence, and success will follow.
How do you balance the need for short-term profitability with long-term growth?
Balancing the need for short-term profitability with long-term growth requires a strategic approach. Short-term profitability is important as it influences future outcomes, but sustainable long-term growth hinges on incremental, meaningful progress. In a startup, rapid expansion can sometimes come at the cost of immediate profitability, posing risks in volatile markets. It’s crucial to understand that not all growth paths offer the same benefits. Therefore, a thorough analysis of various growth opportunities is vital, considering factors like competition, regulatory hurdles, market size, and scalability. This balanced approach ensures that short-term gains bolster sustainable long-term growth, promoting stability and success in dynamic business landscapes.
What are your thoughts on the growing importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing?
ESG criteria are increasingly influencing investment decisions due to their impact on long-term financial performance and risk management. Integrating ESG into their business models is not only strategic but also essential for enhancing operational resilience, meeting regulatory expectations, and fostering stakeholder trust. India’s extensive coastlines and large population make it particularly vulnerable to climate risks like heat waves, flooding, and air pollution, which affect agriculture, water supply, and public health. To address these challenges, India aims to reduce carbon intensity by 45% by 2030. Embedding ESG principles into financial strategies isn’t just about compliance; it’s about proactively managing risks associated with climate change, supporting sustainable development goals, and creating lasting value for investors and society as a whole.
What hobbies or interests do you enjoy outside of the office that help you maintain a well-rounded life?
I believe in pursuing a well-rounded lifestyle and culminate habits that contribute to personal growth and balance. Playing cricket, going to the gym, and spending quality time with my family are indeed a significant part of my life, and they’ve had a profound impact on my leadership style.Cricket is a team sport that emphasizes collaboration, communication, and strategic thinking. On the field, every player’s role is crucial, and success depends on working together towards a common goal. This mirrors the collaborative efforts needed in the financial department, where teamwork and effective communication are key to achieving our objectives. The camaraderie and mutual support in cricket are experiences I bring to my professional team dynamics. Going to the gym instils a sense of discipline and commitment in me. This routine helps me stay focused and maintain high standards in my professional responsibilities. It’s about setting goals, working towards them consistently, and not giving up. Spending quality time with my family is perhaps the most grounding aspect of my life. It teaches me the importance of work-life balance. In a high-pressure roles, it’s essential to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being. Prioritizing family time helps me recharge and come back to work with renewed energy and perspective.
