FOUNDERS FORUM
Ten Questions for Ashwajit Singh
The founder of development consultancy IPE Global has led projects in 20 countries across the globe. No wonder, the travel enthusiast would love to do business with the adventurous Tintin.
What company do you not want to start but wish someone else would?
A company for converting waste to energy since it would resolve two critical global challenges.
Which TV or movie character would you like to go into business with?
Tintin. A bright and enterprising young man on the team would be an asset for any business.
Whom would you trade places with for a day?
Warren Buffet. I deeply admire him for not only being an excellent entrepreneur who has delegated total responsibility to his managers but for his low profile philanthropic activities.
If you could time travel, where would you be right now?
Perhaps participating in the freedom movement
The biggest myth in business is…
That you cannot start a business without capital or contacts. In reality, you need a timely idea backed by the commitment and passion to succeed.
Who gives you the best advice?
My subordinates. It’s important to hire a competent team and back them fully.
What’s the best advice you have given your children?
Enjoy what you are doing and do what you enjoy. Success will follow.
What have you learned about yourself while running your business?
Business is all about people and I enjoy these interpersonal relations.
What have you sacrificed for success?
An increased role in public life and participating in clean national politics—an alternative career I would have loved to have.
What part of your job would you gladly give up?
I enjoy what I am doing and would not want to give up anything.