Richard Rekhy reflects on the future of leadership at EPGP fireside chat
Former KPMG India CEO joined Prof. P. D. Jose for a candid exchange during the annual EPGP Seminar Series at IIMB
23 June, 2025, Bengaluru: At a fireside chat moderated by Prof. P.D. Jose, Strategy area, on 20th June, former KPMG India CEO Richard Rekhy shared reflections on leadership development, career growth, and the future of work.
He spoke of early career choices that, coupled with conviction, integrity, and purpose over planning, shaped long-term vision rather than immediate reward.
For young professionals, Rekhy stated the importance of adaptability, self-awareness, and values-driven decision-making. The essence of leadership, he noted, has shifted from authority to authenticity. He advised students to negotiate without hesitation, advocate for their worth, take initiative beyond formal roles, and not be limited by job titles. During his time at KPMG, Mr. Rekhy built a brand that made the firm appear larger than it was, illustrating that perception is as critical as performance.
The lack of technological knowledge is a serious deterrent in today’s world, he reminded the cohort and reinforced the belief that professionals must reinvent themselves every six months. While the sudden acceleration in AI capability could replace certain jobs, Mr. Rekhy pointed out that it cannot replace the human element. He advised that adaptability and continuous learning are critical in staying relevant in a rapidly evolving landscape.
On work-life balance, he invoked the ‘Five Ball Theory’, emphasizing that while work may bounce back, personal relationships and well-being require care.
“Becoming a trusted business advisor is key, and leaders should under-promise and over-deliver”, he said. Mr. Rekhy concluded on the importance of trust in long-term personal development, stating that trust can only be broken once and should be guarded fiercely. He encouraged students to embrace the cycles of learning, unlearning, and relearning and not to shy away from challenges.