CEO Insights Magazine

In the fast-paced realm of finance and technology, leaders who embody a rare combination of creativity, empathy, and adaptability stand out. Whether inspiring with a compelling vision or providing hands-on individualistic support – successful leaders build relationships, lead by example, and foster a thriving work atmosphere. Exemplifying each of these qualities is Anushka Yadav, the Chief Creative Officer at Chocolate Finance. In the following interview, Anushka takes us on her professional journey, fueled by an unwavering passion for creating meaningful experiences that enrich people's lives.

Could you share your professional background and experience leading up to your role as Chief Creative Officer at Chocolate Finance?

My journey as a creative leader began over a decade ago as a visual designer at SapientNitro, where I honed my skills and experienced exponential growth under the guidance of industry luminaries. With a thirst for innovation, I embraced the role of senior art director at Dentsu Isobar, discovering my innate ability to lead and inspire creative teams. At Concentrix Tigerspike, I had the privilege of heading the design and strategy team, spearheading transformative projects and nurturing exceptional talent. Today, as the Chief Creative Officer at Chocolate Finance, I lead every aspect of creative, user experience and brand.

What motivates you every day?

My motivation stems from my passion for creating seamless and valuable experiences that simplify people's lives through technology. I find joy in translating the complexities of business into effortless interactions for customers. The fact that I get to do this surrounded by incredible people makes work even more of a pleasure. Even at Chocolate Finance, I am thrilled to be a part of a transformative team that aims to revolutionize finance, turning it into a seamless and enjoyable experience while providing people with better returns on their cash.

Could you elaborate on the market position and brand philosophy of Chocolate Finance?

Chocolate Finance is built on the belief that people are looking for better returns on their spare cash. In a world where people often allocate their money to investments and savings, the latter pot often remains stagnant in banks, yielding disappointingly low returns. In other words, unhappy money. Chocolate aims to shatter this norm, offering an alternative to fixed deposits. We will give people a better return on their cash – no lock-ins or hoops to jump through to get it. They can see their returns daily in the app and withdraw anytime. No minimums or maximums. Just happy money.

From a brand perspective, Chocolate Finance is on a mission to make life richer for people. We redefine wealth as unforgettable experiences, vibrant cultural celebrations, delectable culinary delights, and thrilling adventures. By empowering individuals to pursue their passions, we create a new paradigm of financial well-being and happiness and in turn, make life richer.

What were the key challenges you faced while developing the Chocolate Finance brand?

Brand building is complex. The journey of building the Chocolate Finance brand has been incredibly fun, but it is not without its challenges. We have to navigate a fiercely competitive FinTech market, where noise and disruption are the norm. New products are launching every day and older ones are getting louder with their advertising. Finding a razor-sharp strategy to cut through this clutter while obeying the various compliance rules is a challenge, but we’re confident our brand will do the job. Being in the finance space also means our product must adapt to the fast-paced movement of the financial market landscapes – but with determination and a team of some of the brightest minds, we’re transforming hurdles into opportunities for growth and success.

What unique leadership traits do you possess that contribute to your success? And how do you stay up-to-date with industry trends?

My leadership approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Focusing on the uniqueness of each team member, I foster an environment where they feel supported, inspired, and can flourish. I lead by example, emphasizing clear communication, building strong relationships, and empowering teams through alignment and autonomy. Happy work environments ultimately lead to enhanced productivity and success. To stay ahead of the curve, I invest time in continuous learning, seek insights from industry leaders, devour relevant content, and engage in meaningful conversations that challenge and inspire me.

How do you view recognition and awards in your career?

While awards and recognition certainly hold significance, I believe the true value lies in the genuine recognition we receive in our day-to-day life. A culture of appreciation, encouragement, and continuous growth has played a vital role in fueling my passion. Everyone deserves to feel valued and recognized for their work, and it is this recognition that drives individuals to strive for excellence.

What is your roadmap for the future, both for Chocolate Finance and personally?

Naturally, seeing Chocolate become a billion-dollar success! Our aspiration is to revolutionize finance and empower individuals to make life richer. Personally, I'm passionate about creating valuable solutions and hope to venture into entrepreneurship, developing a meaningful product that fosters sharing economies and enhances lives.

Beyond your professional life, what are your hobbies and interests?

I believe that well-rounded life fuels creativity and inspiration. I find joy in traveling and exploring cultures. From the breathtaking beauty of Santorini, incredible memories of ice skating on Banff’s frozen lakes, camping amidst the majestic Yosemite to long drives along Scotland's scenic roads – the world's beauty captivates me endlessly. Additionally, I find joy in spending time with my adorable cockapoo, dancing, and indulging in horse riding.

What advice would you give to budding leaders?

Embrace your unique voice and fearlessly pursue your passions. Constantly learn and develop new skills. Make tech advancements work in your favor. Embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth, and never compromise your standards. Surround yourself with exceptional individuals who challenge and inspire you. Be bold, be visionary, and become the catalyst for change that the world needs.