An interview with Enakshi Priyam – Chief Operating Officer, Assotech Group, one of the leading real estate builders & developers in Delhi NCR
Enakshi Priyam, a visionary leader at Assotech Group, has been at the forefront of transforming the real estate sector. With a focus on technology, sustainability, and innovative leadership, she is redefining how the industry adapts to changing demands.
In this exclusive interview, Enakshi shares her journey of driving growth and innovation at Assotech, highlighting the role of cutting-edge solutions in reshaping real estate development for a sustainable future.
As a leader in a traditionally conservative industry, what entrepreneurial mindset or approaches do you bring to drive innovation and growth at Assotech Group?
Enakshi Priyam: In a traditionally conservative industry like real estate, I believe in the power of challenging the status quo and embracing change.
I approach innovation not just as a tool for growth but as a necessity for staying competitive. I focus on fostering a culture that encourages creative thinking, agile decision-making, and continuous learning.
One of the key entrepreneurial approaches I bring to Assotech is a strong emphasis on technology adoption and data-driven strategies.
Real estate is increasingly influenced by digital transformation, and I ensure that we are not just reactive but proactive in integrating technology into every aspect of our operations—from construction techniques to customer experience.
Additionally, I take a customer-centric approach to innovation, where we prioritize understanding their evolving needs and leverage that insight to guide our business strategies and project designs.
Real estate often involves long project timelines and significant investments. How do you balance taking calculated risks with the need for long-term stability and growth in your projects?
Enakshi Priyam: Balancing risk and stability in real estate is undoubtedly a challenge, but it’s all about data, foresight, and careful planning. I make sure that we conduct thorough market research and feasibility studies before embarking on any major investment or project.
By analyzing both short-term market trends and long-term industry forecasts, we can make informed decisions that minimize risks.
For example, when we launched Assotech Pride in Odisha, we took a calculated risk by introducing MIVAN formwork technology to speed up construction while maintaining high-quality standards.
This approach not only reduced construction time but also allowed us to stay ahead of competitors. At the same time, I ensure that we have a diversified portfolio—residential, commercial, hospitality—so that our business is not overly dependent on one vertical.
We also maintain healthy liquidity and build strong partnerships, which helps us weather potential downturns while ensuring continued growth.
In your experience, what are some of the most significant challenges facing real estate entrepreneurs today, and how are you addressing these challenges at Assotech?
Enakshi Priyam: One of the biggest challenges today is the increased volatility in the real estate market. Changes in government policies, fluctuations in interest rates, and shifts in demand patterns can all create instability.
To address this, I prioritize flexibility and adaptability. We’re constantly analyzing market trends and adjusting our strategies accordingly. For instance, the recent push towards sustainability has made green building practices a priority.
I’ve championed this shift at Assotech by incorporating eco-friendly designs and energy-efficient solutions into our projects. Another challenge is the talent gap in the real estate sector, especially in technology and digital transformation.
To address this, we invest in upskilling our teams and bring in external expertise to ensure we are not just catching up but leading the way in the tech adoption front.
How do you stay ahead of industry trends, and what role does market foresight play in the decision-making process for new projects and initiatives at Assotech?
Enakshi Priyam: Staying ahead of industry trends requires a combination of continuous learning, active networking, and constant market monitoring. I attend industry conferences, engage with thought leaders, and make it a point to stay informed on global developments.
We also have an internal research and development team that focuses on analyzing macroeconomic trends, technology advancements, and shifts in consumer behavior. Market foresight plays a crucial role in shaping our strategy.
For instance, we saw the increasing demand for smart homes and digital infrastructure early on, and we made sure that our projects, such as Assotech Luxury, included tech-enabled features that cater to this demand.
Anticipating where the market is headed allows us to be proactive rather than reactive, and this mindset has been key to our success in delivering projects that meet the evolving needs of our customers.
With Assotech’s rapid growth, what leadership strategies do you rely on to maintain a strong company culture and ensure alignment with the Group’s mission and values?
Enakshi Priyam: Assotech’s growth is a testament to the strength of our culture, which is rooted in transparency, integrity, and customer-first values.
As COO, my leadership strategy centers around fostering open communication, empowering employees, and ensuring that every team member understands how their work aligns with the larger vision of the company.
Regular town halls and feedback loops allow us to engage with our employees at all levels, reinforcing the importance of our shared values. I also believe in leading by example. When I prioritize innovation, integrity, and customer satisfaction, it sets the tone for the rest of the team.
To ensure alignment, we invest in leadership development programs that help our managers and mid-level leaders embody the company’s core values.
Additionally, we ensure that our team is not just driven by financial goals but by a shared sense of purpose—building spaces that improve lives and contribute to the community.
Could you share some insights into your approach to managing diverse business interests within Assotech? How do you prioritize resources and attention across various projects and regions?
Enakshi Priyam: Managing diverse business interests requires a strategic approach to resource allocation and project management.
We have a well-structured portfolio that allows us to focus on key priority areas without spreading ourselves too thin. I ensure that we align each project with the company’s overall strategic objectives, whether it’s innovation, profitability, or sustainability.
Our senior leadership team plays a vital role in helping assess the viability and potential of each project, after which we prioritize resources accordingly.
For instance, if a project has the potential to create a long-term impact on the community or aligns with our sustainability goals, it gets higher priority.
Additionally, I ensure that regional managers are empowered to make decisions based on local conditions while still adhering to the overall vision of Assotech Group.
In today’s rapidly changing landscape, what emerging opportunities do you see for entrepreneurs in the real estate sector, and how are you positioning Assotech Group to capitalize on these opportunities?
Enakshi Priyam: The real estate sector is undergoing a major transformation with the increasing integration of technology, sustainability, and changing consumer expectations.
I see significant opportunities in creating integrated, smart communities that combine residential, commercial, and leisure spaces in a way that enhances quality of life.
The demand for green buildings and sustainable infrastructure is growing, and we’re positioning Assotech to capitalize on this by focusing on eco-friendly projects that meet international green standards.
Additionally, the rise of remote work and flexible spaces presents opportunities in the commercial real estate sector, where demand for office spaces with hybrid work setups is increasing.
At Assotech, we are already making strategic investments in smart city and township projects to address these emerging needs, positioning ourselves as leaders in both innovation and sustainability in the real estate market.
Enakshi Priyam’s strategic leadership and commitment to innovation are setting new benchmarks in the real estate sector.
By integrating technology and sustainability, Assotech Group is not only enhancing operational efficiency but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.
Enakshi’s vision continues to inspire positive change, ensuring that Assotech remains a leader in shaping the future of real estate development.
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