Lily’s Story

I have always believed in keeping my options open. I grew up unable to answer the question “where are you from?”: born in England, raised in Canada (with a stint in New Zealand), 2nd generation Indian immigrant.  I spent my 20s exploring the African continent, living in Ghana and Tanzania, and I still want to set foot in Antarctica.

When I was 15, I made a career plan which involved being a paediatrician and an astronaut. I realised I was too squeamish for medicine but when I was 25, I applied to the European Space Agency to be an astronaut. I still have the rejection email.

I have worked in banking, landed jobs in the arts sector, been a Google Global Community Scholar, qualified as an accountant, worked in charities, dabbled in microfinance, been a FINCA Research Fellow and started up multiple businesses.

What I have learnt is that I love growing purpose-led businesses from the inside out – but not on my own. I’m best at being the integrator co-founder that supports the visionary CEO.

I’m passionate about building companies that are good for their employees, customers, communities and the world at large: the whole shebang. I have worked in places that worked their people down to the ground, that didn’t care about the impact down their supply chain. This is not right.

I started The Virtual COO because I believe that companies can and must do better. I have spent the past decade championing progressive methodologies because I know companies can be a force for good, but it is hard work. I’m here for the challenge and I’m here for you.