Lata Daswani: A Trailblazer and Catalyst for Change

Lata Daswani is a highly accomplished Chartered Accountant and an alumna of Harvard Business School, whose career has been marked by significant achievements and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Currently, she serves as a partner at KPMG Assurance & Consulting Services, where she focuses on tax, regulatory, and business advisory services within the banking and financial services sector apart from serving as an enthusiast for firm related initiatives like culture development, people development, inclusion diversity & equity, one stop approach for customized client solutions and tax technology. This role is a testimony to her dynamic approach and extensive expertise, which she has honed over 20 years in various prestigious organizations. Lata’s career began with substantial contributions in the financial services sector.

Lata Daswani has held leadership positions at major multinational corporations (MNCs) such as Barclays Bank, Citigroup, and Bank of America after her initial career roles as a tax compliance professional at Capgemini and Morgan Stanley. Her primary focus in all these roles was on tax, where she covered both India and the broader APAC region. Her deep understanding of tax regulations, financial services industry, solution oriented approach, enthusiasm to add value and her ability to navigate complex financial landscapes made her a valuable asset to these organizations.

A significant turning point in Lata’s career came when she took on the role of CEO at Everest Fleet, a supplier to Uber. This unconventional position in the fleet management industry showcased her risk taking appetite, versatility and ability to lead across different sectors. Lata’s expertise in tax advisory and governance shone through in her contributions to the industry through various tax advocacy initiatives, collaborating with tax forums and the Indian Finance Ministry. She also served as member of GST Core Committee for the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) from 2019 to 2021 . Her contributions underscored her deep knowledge and her commitment to advancing the field of tax.

In addition to her corporate achievements, Lata Daswani is deeply passionate about working with purpose-driven organizations. She believes that an organization’s culture and its people are the most critical factors for its growth and success. This belief drives her involvement in coaching and mentoring initiatives, where she leverages her certification as a spiritual life coach. Her holistic approach to leadership emphasizes personal and professional development, making her a sought-after mentor. Lata’s commitment to diversity and inclusion (D&I) is another cornerstone of her career. She is an avid contributor to D&I efforts and is recognised as a mentor to both youth and startups. Her impactful role in social entrepreneurship is highlighted by her involvement with several mentoring organisations, including Shenomics, Beyond Diversity, Leadup Universe, and WeCos. Through these platforms, she provides guidance and support to the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Her contributions to her profession and to social causes have not gone unnoticed. In 2021, Lata Daswani was honoured with the Indian Achievers Award, recognising her professional success and her dedication to social causes. Furthermore, in 2022, she was listed as one of the world’s top 100 under-50 executive leaders by DiversityMBA Media. This accolade celebrated her efforts in promoting gender diversity and inclusion, further cementing her status as a trailblazer in her field. Lata’s career is an evidence of her unwavering commitment to excellence, both in the corporate world as well as in her contributions to the larger society.

Her journey from a tax professional at leading MNCs to a CEO in the fleet management industry and now an entrepreneur at KPMG demonstrates her leadership capabilities and commitment to play a purpose driven role for the world around us and in the process contributing meaningfully to the society . Moreover, her dedication to social entrepreneurship and D&I initiatives highlights her holistic approach to taking people along for collective growth and success. Lata continues to inspire and lead, setting an example for future generations through her professional achievements and her passion for making a positive impact on society.

Lata’s legacy is one of inspiration, innovation, and impact. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, determination, and a commitment to making a difference, anyone can achieve extraordinary things.