Reaching a leadership role you’ve worked years for is only the beginning. In this interview, Shrikesh Sheorajpanday, Lead Product Owner at ABN AMRO, shares how the job turned out to be less about his own impact than about what he could unlock in others.
Shrikesh Sheorajpanday: Leadership Is Something You Give Away
What has been the biggest change in your life over the past year?
“The biggest change has been stepping into a leadership role that I had been working towards for years. It gave me the opportunity to not only elevate my own impact, but more importantly, to create the conditions for others to grow and thrive. At the same time, my portfolio gained greater strategic depth and organisational influence. The most valuable lesson? Sustainable leadership requires balancing ambition with the discipline to protect your energy and personal life.”
What’s one goal or intention you’re carrying into the second half of the year?
“My focus for the second half of the year is twofold: continue growing my impact as a leader while strengthening my positioning within the organisation. Equally important, I want to be more intentional about where I invest my time and attention. The first half of the year was heavily focused on professional growth. Going forward, success also means being fully present with family, friends, and the people who matter most.”
What’s one thing the Roots Inspire community has given you that you didn’t expect?
“I expected a strong professional network, but what I found was a community of ambitious people who genuinely want to see each other succeed. Roots Inspire has given me trusted sparring partners, fresh perspectives, and even unexpected business opportunities. Most importantly, it has provided honest reflection. Sometimes, the right conversation or challenge from a like-minded peer is exactly what you need to unlock your next level of growth.”
