I try to emulate Premji's business ethics and governance practices: Harsh Goenka

Harsh Goenka, chairman, RPG Enterprises

Claim to fame

Known as much for helming a diversified group with interests spanning life sciences, IT services and tyres, as for his contemporary art collection

The lesson

A business leader whom I particularly admire is (Wipro chairman) Azim Premji. In comparison to his large presence in the information technology industry we are very small, but as a competitor his qualities are certainly inspirational. His incredible journey as a young entrepreneur of building Wipro from a cooking oil manufacturer to a large IT powerhouse with significant presence in FMCG is fascinating. He is down to earth, unassuming, lives a very humble life and is almost embarrassed about his riches. What I admire most is his immense contribution to philanthropy. Wipro's CSR activities are incredibly nuanced and directed towards genuine change. Not only has Mr Premji raised the bar with his generous contribution of $2 billion towards building a world-class university, he has redefined philanthropy for today's generation.

His business ethics, standards of corporate and board governance are practices I admire and try to emulate. He is a very focussed businessman who knows when to be hands on and when to step back giving freedom to his managers and yet driving change when there is a need.

(As told to Suman Layak)