In his role, Yash guides operations, drives global expansion and shapes the brand’s overall strategy. He holds a Master’s in International Marketing from Hult Business School, Boston and began his journey at the company as an intern before working his way up and assuming his current leadership role. Dongre ushered the 25-year-old fashion house into the digital age by leading the e-commerce launch and transforming it into an omnichannel, digital-first brand. His leadership has propelled the brand’s international footprint in the USA and UAE. Beyond corporate endeavours, Dongre is committed to social impact through the Anita Dongre Foundation, establishing skill development centres for rural women in Maharashtra.
Define Success
Success, to me, is reaching a position where I have the absolute freedom to say “no” to things. I always strive to do right by everyone and everything, so achieving that level of autonomy would be wonderful.
Travel and Exploration
My travel is centered around wildlife enthusiasm, particularly safaris. My family and I channel this passion into conservation efforts, linking our work and philanthropic work with animal welfare initiatives close to our hearts.
Favourite Food
Asian food is my absolute favourite! Pan Asian anything, sign me up. While in Peru, the freshness of the Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine I discovered makes me want to go back.
Thoughts on AI
AI represents a huge opportunity for mankind, but we must tread cautiously. It can accelerate processes and company goals, including sustainability initiatives, provided it is used wisely to offset its own carbon footprint. I am cautiously optimistic that we will all use it for good.
Advice to Young Professionals
Don’t be impatient in terms of finding your passion. Experiment widely, and once you find what you love and value, give it the 10,000 hours it takes to develop mastery of your craft.
Life Mantra
Be like Bombay: Chalte bano (keep moving). It embodies the spirit of perseverance that pulses through the city.
Role Models
Both my mom and dad. My mom is my professional role model; I admire her creativity and her ability to inspire people with her passion. My dad is who I get most of the intangible parts of my personality, sensibilities and style from. Between them, I learn every day, clichéd as that may seem.
Thoughts on Work-Life Balance
It’s much easier said than done, but extremely important to prioritise both aspects of life. Family and a full life after work is the recharge and emotional reset one needs to be great at what they do. So my two bits is when things start feeling heavier, one way or another, lean on a dear one to hold a mirror to you.
Daily Routine
My day begins at 7:00 am, followed by a workout until 8:30 am. After a shower and breakfast, I leave for the office and work until about 6:00 pm. I am usually home by 7:00 pm for an early dinner. The evening is dedicated to family time from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm, followed by some personal time for reading or TV before bed at 10:30 pm.
3 Must-Watch Movies
- 12th Fail
- Marvel Avengers series
- Home Alone
3 Must-Read Books
- The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle
- The Secret by Rhonda Byrne
- Dining with the Maharajas: A Thousand Years of Culinary Tradition by Neha Prasada
Passion and Hobbies
I’m a big foodie. I love trying new restaurants and enjoy baking as a hobby. My wife and I are both deeply passionate about animal welfare, specifically the care and protection of Indie dogs. Our dogs, Bella and Liza, are a huge source of joy.
