In the ever-evolving realm of technology and business, few narratives are as compelling as the journey of those who start from modest beginnings and rise to transformative leadership. Manali Sheth’s trajectory from a Software Quality Analyst to the Managing Director at eSoft Development and Technologies is a testament to resilience, innovation, and visionary leadership. Her career, marked by significant milestones and groundbreaking achievements, provides valuable insights into what it takes to thrive in the competitive tech landscape.
This article explores Manali’s inspiring journey, her approach to leadership, and the future she envisions for her company.
From Humble Beginnings to Strategic Leadership
Manali Sheth’s journey began in December 2011, when she moved to Johannesburg as an expatriate accompanying her spouse. Transitioning from her role as a Software Engineer at Persistent Systems in India, she faced the challenge of restarting her career under a relative visa. “I had no choice but to look for a free internship to start my career again,” she recalls. After eight months of searching, she joined eSoft as a Software Quality Analyst Intern, marking the beginning of a transformative chapter in her career. Starting in a small team of five with limited clients, Manali embraced the opportunity to learn and grow.
“Coming from an Indian corporate environment, eSoft was a big change for me,” she explains. The hands-on experience of managing multiple roles—business analysis, delivery, and QA—was instrumental in shaping her understanding of software development and execution. By 2015, eSoft had expanded significantly, and Manali’s role evolved to encompass broader responsibilities, including innovation and client management.
Embracing Innovation and Strategic Growth
Manali’s leadership style is deeply influenced by her background in software application delivery management and business consulting. She emphasizes customer-centricity, strategic thinking, and agility. “These experiences have taught me to align projects with business goals and adapt to changes,” she asserts. Her approach involves leveraging technology for innovation, empowering teams, and addressing challenges proactively.
One of the standout achievements under her leadership was the launch of epa (eSoft Personal Assistant) in 2015. This innovative WhatsApp-based chatbot was a significant leap forward, offering businesses a novel way to handle queries. “Chatbots were an innovation of their own at that time,” she exclaims. The success of epa, which attracted 65 new clients in its launch year, was a major milestone and solidified eSoft’s reputation in the South African market.
Navigating Challenges with Resilience
Every successful journey is marked by its share of challenges, and Manali’s career is no exception. One of the most significant obstacles emerged when eSoft’s rapid expansion resulted in the loss of its preferential procurement credentials. This development severely complicated the company’s ability to access larger enterprises and public sector contracts. “We found ourselves at a crossroads,” she recounts, reflecting on the critical juncture the company faced.
The dilemma was stark: should they focus on small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or strive for growth by tapping into larger organizations? Manali chose to pivot strategically rather than pursuing traditional paths of expansion. Recognizing the need for a more adaptable approach, she decided to harness eSoft’s unique strengths to empower smaller IT companies. “We began partnering with smaller IT firms, helping them grow and become successful suppliers to major enterprises,” she explains. This shift in strategy not only allowed eSoft to navigate the immediate procurement challenges but also contributed to a broader, collaborative ecosystem within the industry.
By fostering partnerships with smaller players, eSoft was able to drive innovation and growth across the sector, ultimately turning a potential setback into an opportunity for widespread impact. This approach not only underscored Manali’s resilience but also her ability to transform challenges into strategic advantages, reinforcing her role as a visionary leader in the technology landscape.
Cultivating a Culture of Continuous Improvement
At eSoft, innovation is more than a strategy; it’s a survival technique. Manali fosters a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging open communication, experimentation, and client engagement. “Innovation is a top priority,” she asserts. The team’s passion for breaking and making applications drives their creative processes. One notable example is the partnership with DP World Lions and the development of Smile2Win, a rewards and engagement platform.
“We drove an objective of disruption in the marketing space with Smile2Win,” she explains. The platform, which uses gamification and rewards to build customer loyalty, exemplifies eSoft’s commitment to creating impactful solutions. This partnership, including the implementation of technology at The Wanderers Stadium, highlights the innovative spirit that Manali instills in her team.
Acknowledging Influences and Support
Throughout her journey, Manali has had invaluable support from key figures. Her mentor, Vijay Nath (Business Development Head, eSoft Development & Technologies), has been instrumental in guiding her through the complexities of leadership and innovation. “Vijay’s guidance has been a cornerstone of my development,” she notes.
Additionally, Lions Cricket, CEO of Jono Leaf-Wright has been a significant supporter of her innovations. “His support has been crucial in advancing our projects and achieving our goals,” she adds.
Driving Future Success
Looking ahead, Manali’s vision for eSoft includes significant advancements and diversification. “One of my immediate goals is to boost our flagship product, Talkk.ai,” she states. This platform, designed to create generative AI-based conversational chatbots, represents a critical part of eSoft’s future strategy. Additionally, Manali aims to expand into technology consulting and enhance digital transformation capabilities.
“I am confident that with clear communication, proper training, and collaboration, we will achieve our goals,” she asserts. Her forward-thinking approach and dedication to empowering her team position eSoft for continued success and growth in the evolving tech landscape.
Leadership Principles and Personal Balance
Manali’s leadership is deeply rooted in principles of integrity, accountability, and collaboration. “I believe in ‘Be in the Game,’” she says, reflecting her commitment to leading by example and cultivating a motivated, cohesive team. Her management style is not only inclusive and visionary but also focused on fostering an environment where continuous growth is encouraged and differentiation from competitors is a key goal. By setting high standards and demonstrating unwavering ethical conduct, she inspires her team to align with these values and strive for excellence.
Balancing professional and personal life is another domain where Manali shines. “Calendar is my best friend,” she jokes, illustrating how she meticulously plans her schedule to manage various responsibilities. As a dedicated mother and wife, she applies the same principles of discipline, delegation, and effective time management at home as she does at work. This holistic approach allows her to seamlessly integrate her professional and personal roles, ensuring that both spheres are handled with equal attention and care. Her ability to maintain this balance not only contributes to her overall well-being but also sets a powerful example for her team and peers.
Conclusion
Manali Sheth’s journey from an intern to the Managing Director of eSoft Development and Technologies is a compelling testament to perseverance, innovation, and transformative leadership. Her career arc showcases how strategic thinking, resilience, and a dedication to fostering a culture of continuous improvement can lead to extraordinary success. By navigating challenges with agility and steering her company toward groundbreaking innovations, she has not only achieved personal milestones but also contributed significantly to the industry’s evolution.
As Manali continues to lead eSoft into a promising future, her vision and leadership are set to propel further advancements and influence the sector’s trajectory. Her story stands as an inspiring blueprint for emerging leaders, illustrating the profound impact that dedicated and visionary leadership can have in shaping the future of technology and business. Through her example, she demonstrates that with determination and a forward-thinking mindset, significant and lasting change is achievable.
