Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Swiggy, tells YourStory founder and CEO Shradha Sharma that companies often achieve greatness through adversity rather than during times of ease.
The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted businesses across various sectors, with the hospitality industry facing its own set of unique challenges. For instance, OYO experienced a 50-60% revenue drop following the nationwide lockdown imposed to curb the virus’s spread, according to Founder Ritesh Aggarwal.
Kapoor, who previously served as the global chief marketing officer at OYO before joining Swiggy, reflects on his experience, saying, ‘I learned a decade’s worth of professional experience in just 3.5 to 4 years at OYO.’
He elaborates on how the pandemic forced unconventional decision-making due to the extreme circumstances. ‘COVID-19 created an environment where you could make bold, unconventional decisions without facing widespread scrutiny. It was a period when everyone’s strategies were turned upside down.’
Kapoor emphasizes his approach to problem-solving, stating, ‘When faced with challenges, I revert to simple, commonsense solutions. I evaluate the situation, consider my options, and focus on practical solutions. Building a strong team has been a key aspect of this approach.
Kapoor, with a wealth of diverse experiences, believes that challenging circumstances can significantly enhance both individuals and companies, making them more robust and capable.
His career path has been anything but conventional. Kapoor found his true calling in consumer tech through a variety of unique roles. “My formative years weren’t spent at McKinsey & Company. I began as a medical representative in Kolkata while attending night college at the age of 21,” he explains.
He also had an adventurous period in South Africa, where he was involved in developing luxury hotels and acquiring wine companies in Cape Town. “Healthcare entered my life unexpectedly; it wasn’t part of my initial plan,” he adds.
Before his current role at Swiggy, Kapoor served as an executive director at Max Healthcare until November 2018.
Today, Kapoor is focused on personal growth and self-improvement. “I continuously strive to be around people who inspire and uplift me, helping me become a better version of myself,” he says.