Never Turn Down an Opportunity: Leadership Lessons from Reshma Ombase
Reshma Ombase
Sr. Director Technology Product Management | Head of Product at Optum - UnitedHealth Group
Welcome to the latest episode of the Leaders in Tech podcast! In this episode, host David Manel interviews Reshma Ombase, a Senior Director in Technology Product Management at Optum, part of UnitedHealth Group. Reshma shares her journey of resilience, adaptability, and leadership—an inspiring story for anyone striving to make an impact in the tech industry. Her story is one of perseverance, seizing opportunities, and breaking barriers. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from the conversation.
The Importance of Adaptability
Reshma’s career began with a twist of fate. Her initial aspiration was to become a doctor, but circumstances led her to pursue engineering instead. Though math wasn’t her strength, she persevered, graduating from a top engineering college and landing her first job at Infosys.
"It’s not about where you start; it’s about taking opportunities as they come and making the best of them."
Her ability to adapt extended to learning new roles, transitioning industries, and even moving countries. Reshma’s adaptability illustrates how embracing change can unlock unforeseen opportunities.
Balancing Career and Family
Achieving success in a demanding career while maintaining a fulfilling family life is a challenging feat. Reshma credits her passion for work, dedication to family, and an incredibly supportive husband and in-laws for her ability to balance both.
"When I’m at work, I give 100%. When I’m with my family, I give them 100%. It’s about being present in the moment."
This dual commitment to work and home highlights the importance of strong support systems and the discipline to prioritize effectively.
Embracing Challenges and Hard Times
Reshma’s move to the United States in 2013 came with uncertainties. As a newlywed immigrant without a work visa, she faced the prospect of not being able to continue her career. However, she used this time to pursue a Master’s in Information Systems, ultimately landing a job with UnitedHealth Group.
"Hard times are where you discover your resilience. It’s where you decide to persist, grow, and take control of your future."
Her journey exemplifies the value of persistence and preparation in overcoming obstacles.
Leadership and Team Building
A hallmark of Reshma’s career has been her ability to nurture and develop leaders within her teams. She emphasizes the importance of understanding team dynamics and recognizing individual potential.
"Succession planning is not about replacement; it’s about creating opportunities for others to grow and thrive."
Reshma’s servant leadership style—rooted in respect, kindness, and a genuine commitment to her team’s success—has fostered an environment where others aspire to work under her guidance.
Building a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
Reshma’s commitment to diversity in hiring has been instrumental in building high-performing teams. However, she acknowledges the occasional challenge of hiring mismatches and stresses the importance of addressing these issues promptly.
"Bringing the right talent to the team isn’t just about skills; it’s about finding individuals who align with the team’s culture and values."
Her proactive approach to diversity and inclusion has created teams that are not only technically skilled but also collaborative and cohesive.
Conclusion
Reshma Ombase’ story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning. Her journey from aspiring doctor to a senior leadership role in technology is filled with valuable lessons for anyone seeking to build a fulfilling career. By embracing opportunities, fostering meaningful relationships, and maintaining a growth mindset, Reshma has exemplified what it means to be a true leader in tech.
Written by Dhan Ababa
“Never turn down an opportunity. It could be your next golden one.”
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