It's been a year of farewells at CMK. Lots of people have moved geographies, life stages or companies.
1 of these was the erstwhile head of AAI CMK, DB, moving to Geneva. She came in as the head of AAI CMK in 2000, with total CMK strength in single digits. Under her tutelage, the function evolved & grew to its current strength of about 70. So, in a way, I owe my current job to her.
But more importantly, she was loved by everyone for the personal touch to her leadership. Conversations with her were rarely about the state of the business - it was more about what's happening in our lives, things we like/dislike. She could talk to me as another 25-year old than someone almost double that age. I feel that is the hallmark of a leader - can she build people bridges.
So, the poignancy at her departure from AAI after 7 years was palpable. For both her & the CMK community at large. Hence, to see her off, a facebook was to be compiled where everyone could leave their messages, pics etc. which she could take back as a memoir. Here is what I wrote for her:
P.S. - At the actual farewell night, someone used an almost identical quartet as her opening line. I have a lingering suspicion. If it's true, I feel ambivalent about her having used it.
1 of these was the erstwhile head of AAI CMK, DB, moving to Geneva. She came in as the head of AAI CMK in 2000, with total CMK strength in single digits. Under her tutelage, the function evolved & grew to its current strength of about 70. So, in a way, I owe my current job to her.
But more importantly, she was loved by everyone for the personal touch to her leadership. Conversations with her were rarely about the state of the business - it was more about what's happening in our lives, things we like/dislike. She could talk to me as another 25-year old than someone almost double that age. I feel that is the hallmark of a leader - can she build people bridges.
So, the poignancy at her departure from AAI after 7 years was palpable. For both her & the CMK community at large. Hence, to see her off, a facebook was to be compiled where everyone could leave their messages, pics etc. which she could take back as a memoir. Here is what I wrote for her:
Bright shines that distant star
Being a guide to many from her throne afar
Yet silently she delights
At the success of those guided by her light
Worshiped is her legacy
She, who weaved life as she passed by...
For her spirit, her charm and her know.
P.S. - At the actual farewell night, someone used an almost identical quartet as her opening line. I have a lingering suspicion. If it's true, I feel ambivalent about her having used it.
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