Doyen of Indian Retail

I have known Raghu for the last 5 years.. since the time he took my interview for joining Reliance Retail.... He is  of course a great manager, professional . doyen of Indian Retail , Inspiration to all, and an outstanding gentleman and human being... I had the fortune and distinct honour of working directly with him in 2009-2010 at Reliance Retail... when he was  the CEO  of Reliance Retail... I remember Raghu as an extremely Inspirational boss and mentor.... always being compassionate with people, extremely fast decision making... In fact I have been fortunate to have worked with Raghu, and  also spent  a year just in his next cabin... seen him in very close quarters... working very closely with him... I remember him for his extreme clarity of vision, fast decision making, backing his  team, and being an Inspirational boss and mentor .. 

      
I thought it may be worthwhile to share , one piece of professional anecdote ...

It was Early July 2009.... and typically 15th Aug period is Retail sales high which is planned by all Retailers.. I remember Raghu talking to all his direct reports of Value Format, including myself , into a large Cabin on 2nd floor, RCP.. explaining very clearly the Aug 2009 Big Daring Goal... and breaking it down  to each category, line.. and personally driving the  agenda... to ensure that Aug is  the High for the year... All of us, myself as the Marketing Head  , together with all Category Heads and Regional Heads worked with personal Inspiration  to ensure that we achieve a highest ever business till date in this month...

I remember his style  of  directly and Indirectly ensuring that his team excel  and perform at the best... and  not necessarily being Hands On 24x 7.....

I also remember the swiftness with which Raghu cleared our Marketing Communication Route : 5 crore satisfied Indians..... in a jiffy.....

     
We are shocked... and India and the Retail Fraternity will miss such an able CEO, Manager, Leader, Retail Guru and  a great human being... 

Peshwa Acharya worked with Raghu in Reliance Retail and is now the Senior Vice President - Marketing, at Reliance Communication