'Women leaders in PR & Comms space must be storytellers and problem-solvers'

Women have played a huge role in shaping the communications industry, even if their stories haven't always been at front. The industry has several remarkable women whose talent shape our world, often blending empathy with innovation in ways that make communication more real, more inclusive, and more powerful for everyone.

In today Women Achievers series, we honour and celebrate the achievements and innovation of Sylvia Dutta, Former Head Corporate Communications, Jubilant Foodworks Ltd. She was bestowed with the ‘Communicator of the Year (Corp Comm professional)’ award at the 5^th edition of e4m PR & Corp Comm Women Achievers' Awards 2024.

Excerpts:

Q: How has your journey been in the communications industry? What challenges have you faced as a woman leader?

My journey in the communications industry has been a deeply enriching one—marked by constant evolution, learning, and discovery. When I joined Jubilant FoodWorks, I was stepping into a large and layered organisation with its own established rhythm. The first challenge was to align diverse teams across departments and ensure that our communication goals reflected a unified vision. It was not just about crafting messages—it was about building trust, creating shared purpose, and encouraging collaboration.

Adapting to a new organisational culture also came with its own lessons. Every workplace has its own values, nuances, and unspoken codes. I made a conscious effort to observe, listen, and immerse myself in the environment. Slowly, I found ways to contribute meaningfully and become a part of the company's larger narrative.

The food services industry itself is fast-moving and ever-changing. Consumer behaviour shifts constantly, and staying ahead of trends requires not only agility but deep engagement with both market insights and internal teams. I spent considerable time understanding our products, processes, and people—so that every piece of communication would be rooted in substance, not just style.

Throughout this journey, I have found strength in relationships—be it with mentors, cross-functional teams, or external stakeholders. Continuous learning has also played a crucial role, especially in keeping up with emerging trends such as AI-led communication tools and the changing dynamics of digital media. Each challenge I faced helped shape my leadership style and deepen my belief in the power of purpose-driven communication.

Q: What shifts have you observed for women in the workplace over the last few decades? And where do we still need to go?

Over the years, I have seen a positive shift in how women are perceived and positioned in the workplace. Today, more women are leading teams, contributing to boardroom conversations, and breaking into sectors that were traditionally male-dominated. There is greater awareness around gender equity, and the idea of inclusive leadership is gaining ground.

However, we still have a long way to go. True inclusion goes beyond policies and token representation. It requires workplaces to acknowledge the different realities women face and to create support systems that address those challenges meaningfully. Whether it is flexible working arrangements, access to leadership development, or a culture that values empathy and emotional intelligence, we need structural changes that truly empower women.

The day we stop expecting women to ‘fit in’ and start reshaping the workplace to reflect the richness of different experiences—that will be the real turning point.

Q: What skills and qualities do women need to succeed in public relations and communications today?

Success in public relations and communications is rooted in authenticity, strategic thinking, and emotional intelligence. Women leaders in this space must be storytellers and problem-solvers—capable of balancing long-term brand narratives with the ever-evolving demands of digital platforms.

Gratitude plays a key role. Recognising the contributions of team members, partners, and stakeholders builds trust and encourages collaboration. Resilience is essential too, especially when navigating high-pressure situations and balancing multiple expectations. Innovation is another non-negotiable—our industry thrives on fresh thinking and ideas that resonate across audiences. Respect for diverse perspectives and compassion in leadership ensure that we create inclusive communication that is not only effective but also meaningful.

In today’s world, communicators are not just brand custodians—they are culture builders. And to succeed, one must bring both heart and mind to the role.

Q: What can companies do to attract and retain more women in leadership roles?

If companies truly want to see more women in leadership, they must create cultures where women feel seen, heard, and supported—not just at the entry level, but throughout their professional journey.

It begins with fostering an inclusive environment—one where diversity is embedded in the organisation’s core values. Addressing unconscious bias is critical, right from hiring to appraisals and promotions. Job descriptions, evaluation criteria, and leadership pipelines all need to be revisited with a gender-sensitive lens.

Mentorship also plays a big role. Structured mentoring programmes and peer support networks can help women navigate challenges, find their voice, and grow with confidence. Equal access to training, leadership opportunities, and fair pay must be ensured consistently—not just during review cycles, but as part of the daily work culture.

When organisations support women with sincerity, they do not just retain talent—they nurture powerful, future-ready leaders.

Q: What advice would you give to young women starting their careers in communications?

Be fearless about who you are. Your individuality is your greatest strength. Stay curious, seek feedback, and never stop learning. In this field, it is not just about how well you speak—it is about how well you listen and how deeply you understand your audience.

Do not shy away from challenges. Every setback is a lesson in disguise. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who challenge you and inspire you to grow. Believe in your voice, and use it wisely—whether you are crafting a campaign or standing up for yourself.

And most importantly, enjoy the journey. It is okay to stumble. It is okay to pause. What matters is that you stay true to your path and keep showing up, with courage and compassion.

Q: How do you feel being named a winner at the 5th edition of the e4m PR & Corporate Communications Women Achievers Awards 2024?

Seventeen years. It feels like a lifetime and yet, it passed in a heartbeat.

I still remember the young woman who first walked into an office—nervous, ambitious, and excited about the world of communication. Since then, I have written thousands of words, told countless stories, and led numerous campaigns. Most of that work was done quietly—in the background, behind screens, inside meeting rooms. So to be recognised this way, to have my name called out, and to stand on that stage—it was deeply humbling.

But this award is not mine alone. It belongs to my husband, Madhukar Kumar, who has stood by me like a rock through every high and low. It belongs to my children, who have redefined what it means to create and who fill my life with perspective and purpose. It belongs to my mentors, my colleagues, and to every woman who has ever typed a press release with one hand while cradling a child with the other.

Motherhood and leadership are not opposing forces—they can coexist. I have learned that in the most personal way. There have been days I have juggled midnight feeds and morning meetings, days where my professional and personal worlds collided. But through it all, the work did not stop. Nor did the love.

This award is a reminder that stories told with sincerity always find their way back. And for me, that is the real achievement—to still be standing here, after all these years, grateful for every moment, and ready for the next chapter.