A CFO’s Golfing Journey
Shanat Datta is the Chief Financial Officer of Runner Automobiles PLC. With a background as a chartered accountant and a career marked by precision and discipline, Shanat seamlessly balances his demanding corporate role with his passion for golf. His journey into the sport began four years ago, inspired by the verdant greens of the golf course and the camaraderie of his professional network. In this interview, Shanat shares his insights on time management, the parallels between golf and corporate life, and how the discipline of golf has positively influenced his professional performance.
How did you first get into golf, and what inspired you to pursue it alongside your corporate career?
The initial inspiration for me was the lush, green expanse of the golf course. It captivated me and drew me into the sport. I started playing golf around four years ago, influenced by one of my corporate leaders, and soon found myself surrounded by colleagues and fellow chartered accountants who shared the same passion. This network of professionals not only enhanced my golfing experience but also helped me grow in my corporate career. My favorite aspect of golf remains the beautiful, green landscape of the course.
Balancing a demanding corporate role with golf can be challenging. How do you manage your time effectively to excel in both areas?
Time management in balancing golf and a corporate career requires discipline and passion. By structuring my day and waking up early, I can integrate golf into my routine seamlessly. This discipline in golfing mirrors the precision needed in the corporate world. The focus and dedication required in golf directly benefit my professional life, enhancing my ability to be punctual and accurate.
“A minor error in golf can alter the trajectory of the ball, similar to how small mistakes in business can impact outcomes.”
What is your current golfing routine?
My golfing routine primarily revolves around weekends. I play every Friday and Saturday and, when possible, practice at the driving range in the evenings after work. On holidays, I dedicate the first half of the day to golfing, ensuring I make the most of my free time.
To date, what is your proudest golf accomplishment?
My proudest achievement in golf is not about trophies but about the accuracy and discipline the game has instilled in me. Golf has taught me professionalism and improved my corporate performance. It’s the personal growth and development through the discipline of the sport that I cherish the most.
What parallels do you see between the skills required for success in golf and those needed in the corporate world?
Golf requires precision, accuracy, and a deep focus on each shot, much like the corporate world demands meticulous attention to detail. A minor error in golf can alter the trajectory of the ball, similar to how small mistakes in business can impact outcomes. Both fields require you to learn from mistakes and continuously strive for improvement, reinforcing the importance of accuracy and punctuality.
What is the best thing about golf?
The best aspects of golf are the discipline it demands, the careful selection of clubs, the accuracy needed for each shot, and the deep concentration required. These elements of golf foster a profound sense of mindfulness and strategic thinking.
Which are your favorite golf courses?
In Bangladesh, my favorite golf course is Kurmitola Golf Club. I also enjoy playing at a course in Kolkata and another in Chattogram. I’m excited about new courses coming up in places like Sreemangal and look forward to exploring them.
“The discipline in golfing mirrors the precision needed in the corporate world.”
Can you share an experience where a lesson you learned on the golf course positively influenced your approach to a professional challenge?
Golf has taught me that every shot counts and that the ball’s movement is influenced by my actions. This parallels the corporate world where strategic decisions shape career trajectories. Learning to correct mistakes on the golf course has helped me analyze and improve my professional decisions, ensuring a steady progress towards success.
How has your involvement in golf helped you build relationships and advance your career?
Golf is an excellent platform for networking. It allows me to spend quality time with colleagues and professionals from different sectors, fostering strong connections. The shared experience of playing golf together helps build rapport and facilitates professional networking, which has been beneficial for my career.
How do you believe your passion for golf enhances your performance and leadership abilities within your corporate role?
My passion for golf enhances my corporate performance by instilling discipline and precision. Golf teaches patience, strategic thinking, and the importance of a well-thought-out plan. These qualities are crucial for effective leadership and successful project execution in the corporate world. The discipline and commitment required in golf directly translate to my professional life, ensuring that I meet targets and lead my team effectively.
