Myntra, one of India’s leading fashion e-commerce platforms, is headed by a remarkable leader, Nandita Sinha. Appointed as CEO on January 1, 2022, Sinha’s rise through the ranks is a testament to her determination and expertise in the FMCG and e-commerce industries, where she has over 18 years of experience. She began her career at Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) and later worked at Britannia, where she started as a summer trainee and eventually became a client manager.
The Early Days: From IIT BHU to FMCG
Nandita Sinha’s journey began in an academically-oriented family in Lucknow, where she was encouraged to voice her opinions and pursue her passions. She chose to study ceramic engineering at IIT BHU, a decision that marked the beginning of her fearless pursuit of non-traditional paths. After completing her B-Tech, she went on to earn an MBA in marketing and strategy from the Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) in Delhi. Her career kicked off at HUL, where she quickly distinguished herself as a dynamic professional in sales and marketing.
The Flipkart Connection and Myntra’s Growth
In 2013, Sinha joined Flipkart, a pivotal moment in her career as Flipkart later acquired Myntra. During her eight-year stint at Flipkart, she played a significant role in key initiatives, such as leading the sales for The Big Billion Days, managing customer growth, and building the Flipkart brand. Her leadership and strategic vision led to her promotion as Vice-President of Customer Growth, Media, and Engagement before she took on the role of CEO at Myntra.
Under her leadership, Myntra has seen substantial growth, particularly in its beauty segment, which has become the fastest-growing category on the platform. In 2021, Myntra hosted around 280 international brands; this number has now increased to approximately 420, showcasing her impact on the business.
Personal Strengths and Humility
Despite her professional success, Sinha remains grounded and credits her achievements to the support of her husband, who has been her biggest cheerleader throughout her journey. She also acknowledges the mentorship of key figures like Kalyan Krishnamurthy, Sriram Venkataraman, and Amitesh Jha, who played a significant role in her development as a leader.
Sinha’s humility and commitment to empowering others are evident in her approach to leadership. She prefers to be seen as a role model for women rather than merely an achiever, emphasising the importance of being fearless and making the most of every opportunity.
A Fearless Leader
Nandita Sinha’s story is one of intelligence, grit, and empathy. Her ability to solve complex problems while inspiring those around her has turbo-charged various businesses, making her a standout leader in the e-commerce industry. As she continues to lead Myntra, her journey serves as an inspiration to young girls and women everywhere, encouraging them to be fearless and seize every opportunity that comes their way.
