As the new year rings in, reputed corporate lawyer, foreign policy and business consultant, Goel, spoke to us about his high-profile position, the socio-economic landscape, and moreover, the progressive professional ideals that have propelled his great success. At a relatively young age, Vijay has already advised the former Deputy Prime Minister, Liberal Democrat, Nick Clegg on Emerging Markets and the government of Andhra Pradesh on the Amravati Smart City Project. He has also been the Chairman of the London Chamber of Commerce Asian Business Association and ASSOCHAM UK, one of the largest Chambers of Commerce in India. “Clegg had a fondness for India, and actually took the biggest business delegation to India – a team of 150 people – for which I was one of a few mission leaders,” Goel elaborated on the post. “2015 was his first governmental foray to the country, and it was an honour. Clegg was a passionate man, sometimes working 15-hour days. We travelled through metropolitan centres such as Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai, and met with Prime Minister Modi. The idea was to create the best business connections between the UK and India with a compassionate approach. For example, fighting the misconception that Indian students would only get limited visas.”
Here, Goel made sure to emphasise the importance of “authentic networking and connecting people and the dots.” Indeed, the grounded expert has founded the Indo-EU business forum eleven years ago: “always valuing a channel between India and the rest of Europe as well as the relationship with the UK." He added: "it is, of course, especially important that we develop global ties now.” Goel is currently advising the Government of Malta, planning a trip with the Maltese Prime Minister to India’s commercial hub of Gujarat in January, “having introduced the governing body to the best of the best.”
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However, despite possessing powerful allies across the world and being surrounded by its many first-rate talents, Goel’s strength lies in the special soft skills of “humility and honesty which naturally result in great loyalty and a wide base of genuine friendships.” Championing this respectful, traditional manner alongside the more contemporary work virtues of gumption and go-getting is at once a good message for the aspiring youth Goel has also been known to inspire. As well as allowing personal evolution and growth, an affable attitude results in the sort of corporate bridges that allow deep and infrastructural reward together with fiscal health. “In terms of my corporate legal work, I have been involved in international landmark projects such as a multi-billion-dollar transaction with Reliance Industries Inc.” A mammoth South Asian group that practices good CSR, Goel facilitates such business life to boost real estate and public foundations throughout the Indian nation.
Thus, rather than the stereotypical image of short-term profits, bolshy business and a compulsive string of titles, Goel’s diverse work underscores what is truly, and timelessly, important: integrated ethical values and the long-term vision that constitute a strong vocational self. “There is no industry secret to my commercial accomplishments,” Goel lightly concluded. “You apply the basic principles of life and you excel at what you do – patterns become clearer and you find yourself arrived.” And in Goel’s case, surrounded by priceless support too. An extension of his love for people and socially democratic practice, the forthright advisor, who served on the committee for erecting a statue of Gandhi outside British Parliament, also stands as an ambassador for Barnardo's: the UK's largest and oldest national children's charity.
Out of your many impressive posts, what have been some highlight moments?
Becoming Chairman of the London Chamber of Commerce Asian Business Association, which was the biggest Chamber in the UK at the time. I was able to gather important high commissioners, including from Nepal and Bangladesh, and created a great impact. Businesses could then network powerfully. I bought the best speakers on board, including some celebrities, which allowed for good business.
You are your own professional triumvirate. What skills chiefly overlap?
The positions organically inform each other as they are in similar areas: for example, being in business helps to represent that community for shaping foreign policy.
What is one requirement of being a corporate lawyer that people wouldn’t usually consider?
You have respect, trust and an entrepreneurial approach. I have an advantage as I possess an MBA as well as a law degree.
What is a favourite part of your multifaceted profession?
Networking well which applies to all aspects and connecting people.
You do philanthropic work too. What are some other projects?
I’m a committee member of another charity: the largest in India to provide education. I am also a trustee of the Singhania foundation.
Some assume developing countries, though financially growing, may still be socially or politically stunted. Do you have comment?
Actually, India is leading particularly in tech, and telecoms and entrepreneurially. Indians are one of the biggest industrial employers in the UK, for example the well-known TATA. I’m sure over time such assumption will fade.
Multiculturally, do you think the UK can still hold a bright torch despite current events?
Yes, but we have to do more. We have to bring more experienced and reliable people to start effective equality programs: for example, ones that unite members of different communities, and ensure fair representation on the big business boards. Both for women who can sit in more executive and non-executive positions and in terms of multi-ethnic representation.
Finally, what is your advice to others who wish to do a lot with their talent but might feel there isn’t enough time or space?
Timewise, you have to find a way to manage, but don’t underestimate charitable and pro bono endeavours. If you simply focus on money, you might not make the maximum impact. It’s important to use time to foster goodwill and not just focus on repute and more wealth.
W: http://www.vijaygoel.co.uk/