COO, Garrison Demolition and Engineering
Adaptability and perseverance have played pivotal roles in Deepali Pallath’s life journey. She believes that if you pursue something you’re passionate about with relentless effort, no obstacle will feel insurmountable: “Completing my schooling at a Gujarati-medium school has introduced some communication barriers during my higher education, as well as my career. However, building a strong work ethic, fostering trust and reliability, and ensuring open and honest communication has helped me overcome this obstacle. Furthermore, working in a male-dominated industry has also presented copious challenges throughout my career. In navigating my way through these challenges, I’ve learned to leave no room for external expectations or perceptions to restrict my vision or define the value I bring to my industry in any way.”
Throughout her journey in the construction industry, Deepali has chosen to take paths that challenge her and, in doing so, allow her to grow. “I was drawn to Garrison Demolition and Engineering since I recognized that Garrison would allow me to apply my expertise in sales and marketing, as well as project management and operations to a new domain. As the Chief Operating Officer of Garrison Demolition and Engineering, I strive to exceed our company’s goals of offering field expertise comparable to that of large established corporations all while maintaining the personal touch of a small family-owned business.”
A firm believer in the idea that luck can only be of help if you work hard, Deepali reveals how she overcame her challenges to succeed. “Working at top leadership positions at large firms in India translated to extended working hours, and frequent travel requirements all across the country. This was not an easy commitment, especially when living as a nuclear family where compromises are necessary and it’s not always possible to prioritize myself. I have been very lucky to receive steadfast support from my family and I’ve made sure to devote hard work and wholehearted efforts into every opportunity, no matter how big or small it may be. After having worked in the industry for almost two decades, it was extremely challenging for me to take an extended break and focus entirely on home-making and navigating our family’s relocations to different countries once my younger daughter was born. However, even when I was unable to work full time due to not having a work permit, or due to familial commitments, I made sure to stay updated with new developments within the industry through online courses and certifications which allowed me to put my best foot forward when re-entering the workforce after a few years.”
‘Connection’ is what drives Deepali’s passion. “I come alive when I have the opportunity to network with people and create a positive impact on people’s lives. As such, I value fostering meaningful relationships with our business partners and customers and placing utmost importance in the customer’s needs through integration of a customer-centric approach. I’m passionate about instilling honesty, integrity, and equal opportunity wherever I work. I have faced several barriers to entry, especially in the beginning of my career due to stereotypes against women and therefore, creating easier access to opportunities for women is an integral part of my vision.”
Deepali’s inspiration comes from her experiences, as well as the people around her. “Growing up, my parents gave me utmost freedom to pursue my dreams and make independent decisions, even though this was not the societal norm of the small town where I’m from. My mother, who never knew English, traveled alone across the country, as well as internationally. After my father passed away, my mother sacrificed her own comfort for me and my brother, and ensured that I had all the support I needed to complete my college education. My parents’ courage in standing by their decisions, even when going against societal expectations, and their relentless support continues to fuel my strength and inspiration. Furthermore, it disappoints me to see the prevalence of gender bias in today’s society and helping to create positive change in this regard, by creating more access to opportunities and education for women plays a vital role in my vision.”
Does Deepali believe in being in the rat race, or being a tiger, we ask her? “A rat race brings to mind the idea of constant desire and no satisfaction. Although I believe that it is important to have a clear vision and to work hard to achieve goals, the problem arises when we discount current blessings and achievements by hunting for happiness solely in future outcomes. I place value in creating a balance between enjoying the journey, as well as striving for the destination — being grateful for today’s gifts as well as pushing hard towards my dreams and goals. I am a result oriented person, and I’m not afraid to challenge myself as well as my bosses and colleagues for the betterment of the company. I am not one to shy away from spearheading a shift in the company’s path in order to facilitate growth. However, I’m also a firm believer in fostering dreams, not regrets. I don’t let fear of failure or desire for perfection get in the way of progress. When faced with setbacks, rather than dwelling on what could have been, I focus on how to move forward with an even greater momentum. Much like a tiger, sometimes it is important to take a few steps back to be able to leap high and wide to achieve a target.”
Deepali has been admired personally and professionally for her commitments and deliverables and never looked back whether it is managing top line or bottom line to bring stability or establishing new business. “It gives a sense of achievement and satisfaction when your true efforts come to life in business. I feel accomplished whether I am awarded an Employee of the Year award or highest salary or the title in the organization, or my husband has the highest award or title or my daughter wins a soccer tournament or secures admission in one of the most desirable schools in the world!!”
According to Deepali, leadership is trust, service, co-creation and resilience. A good leader should strive to create more leaders and not followers. Sharing her learnings with our readers, she lists:
- Prioritize things that are good for you
- Work hard towards your goal wholeheartedly without doubting yourself
- Don’t let external perceptions define you
- Go a few steps back and jump high, like a tiger
- It’s okay to pause a little in the short term to make room for greater long term growth.
