Vanessa Pillay’s inspiring journey in the asset management industry

Growing up in Reservoir Hills, surrounded by a close-knit Indian community, shaped Vanessa Pillay into the leader she is today.

“Our neighbourhood was more than just a place, it was a network of families who supported one another, celebrated together, and faced challenges with unity,” she recalled.

“That environment taught me the value of hard work, humility, and integrity. Whether leading teams or building client relationships, I’ve always drawn strength from those early lessons to lead with empathy, to stay grounded, and to never forget where I come from.”

Her father placed a strong emphasis on education and self-sufficiency, principles that continue to guide her career.

“He believed that knowledge was the one thing no one could take from you, and that being able to stand on your own was a mark of true strength,” Pillay said.

“That mindset shaped my approach to leadership. I value continuous learning and empower others to think independently.”

When she entered the corporate world more than 25 years ago, Vanessa Pillay walked into boardrooms that were overwhelmingly male.

“As a woman of colour, there were moments of being underestimated, overlooked, or spoken over, but those challenges became catalysts for growth,” she explained.

“Over time, I stopped trying to fit in and focused on standing out, bringing authenticity, empathy, and a fresh perspective to leadership.”

The turning point in her journey came when she embraced her own voice and values.

“It was the moment I stopped trying to fit into the mould of what leadership was ‘supposed’ to look like, and instead embraced my own voice, values, and style,” she said.

Her leadership style, she noted, was shaped by both quiet frustrations and quiet triumphs.

“Frustrations taught me patience, perseverance, and the power of introspection. Triumphs reminded me that impact doesn’t always need applause. Together, they shaped a leadership style rooted in empathy, resilience, and intentionality.”

A mentor early in her career also played a pivotal role.

“He challenged me to think bigger, speak up, and take on roles that stretched me beyond my comfort zone,” Pillay explained.

“That experience taught me the power of advocacy and intentional mentorship. It shifted my outlook from simply contributing to leading.”

Today, she views mentorship as a responsibility.

“I don’t believe in moulding people into a version of myself; I believe in helping them discover and refine their own voice and leadership style,” she said.

“Supporting the next generation, especially women, means being visible, accessible, and vocal about the challenges we’ve faced, so they know they’re not alone.”

At Ashburton Investments, where she currently leads, collaboration is at the heart of her philosophy.

“We encourage cross-functional engagement, ensuring that teams from distribution to investment to operations work in sync toward shared goals,” Pillay said. “Ultimately, I see my role as a connector bringing people together, breaking down silos, and ensuring that collaboration drives both innovation and performance.”

Over her 25 years in asset management, Vanessa Pillay has seen progress but insists that gaps remain.

“There are more women in leadership roles and more intentional conversations around diversity, but significant gaps remain, particularly in senior investment roles and board representation,” she said.

“True inclusion goes beyond numbers. It’s about creating environments where women feel empowered to lead authentically, without having to conform.”

For young women entering corporate spaces, Pillay’s advice is simple.

“Don’t wait to feel ready, step forward, speak up, and stretch yourself,” she said. “Growth happens when you push beyond what’s familiar. Build your confidence through preparation, surround yourself with people who challenge and support you, and never underestimate the value of your voice.”

Looking back over her career, she says one lesson has remained constant.

“The one lesson that has remained constant throughout my 25-year career is the power of integrity, staying true to my values and doing what’s right,” Pillay reflected.

If she had to capture her philosophy in one phrase, Vanessa Pillay summed it up with conviction: “Show up boldly, lead fearlessly, and build a legacy where authenticity is the norm, not the exception.”

BUSINESS REPORT