How To Build Leadership Staying Power With Supriya Rao Patwardhan

What makes someone stay at the same company for thirty years—and still love it? In this episode of Rewrite the Rules, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Supriya Rao Pat, EVP at DHL Group, who’s been with the company for three decades. We talked about how she’s grown through the ranks, created roles for herself, and balanced leadership with life as a mother and now a grandmother. Supriya opened up about the turning points in her journey, the moments of doubt, and the power of asking for what you need. This conversation is packed with real stories, honest insights, and the kind of wisdom you only get from someone who’s truly seen it all.

Discussion Topics: How To Build Leadership Staying Power With Supriya Rao Patwardhan

• What makes someone stay at one company for 30 years? Supriya spills the secret.
• Perfection isn’t the goal—but what is?
• Supriya’s big bet: taking roles that didn’t even exist yet.
• “Am I still relevant?”—the question that changed her career.
• Thinking of switching roles? Listen to this before you do.
• Why Supriya stopped hiding who she really was at work.
• How a male board learned to talk about emotions (yes, really).
• The trap of trying to be ‘that kind’ of leader—and how to break it.
• A question for men: would you want your sister to succeed like this?
• What bullying, moving continents, and reflection taught her.
• Her favourite leadership quote will stick with you too.
• The job she didn’t get—and why it was the best thing that happened.
• The one rule she’s rewritten—and wants every woman to try.
• Her advice to her younger self (and maybe to you too).

Our Guest: Supriya Rao Patwardhan

Global executive with an international outlook excelling in Leading multi-cultural teams, Corporate Governance, Strategy, Digitalization, ESG, Change Management, IT Portfolio Management, Vendor Management, Demand Management, IT Modernization, Global Standards, Enterprise programs & Secure services.

EVP at the DHL Group with over 30 years experience in Tech and the Logistics and Supply Chain industry. 

P&L accountability for 5000+ strong global unit as the first Asian leader to head IT Services for the DHL group. 

Board Member – Corporate IT Board and Global Business Services Board. Co-chair Amcham SG – Supply Chain, Transportation and Logistics committee.