Discussion Highlights with Louis Miranda

Sep 8, 2024

Notes on Conversation with Louis Miranda

Introduction

  • Guest: Louis Miranda, co-founder of ISPP (Indian School of Public Policy).
  • Background:
    • Cleared Chartered Accountancy with All India Rank.
    • MBA from Chicago Booth.
    • Early employee at HDFC Bank; set up IDFC's private equity fund.
    • Former CFO at Chris Capital.

Key Highlights

Regrets in Investment

  • Investment Regret: Sold HDFC Bank ESOPs to buy a flat valued at 2 crores; could have been worth 200 crores today.

Career Path

  • Career Turning Point: Meeting his future wife, Fiona, at Vahid Stores while shopping.
  • Importance of life partner compatibility; choosing the right partner can influence personal and career decisions.
  • Risk Aversion: Initially risk-averse due to upbringing; changed mindset over time to embrace risks for opportunities.

Networking Framework: P-H-O-R-C-E

  • Framework for effective networking:
    • P - Positivity: Approach networking with a positive mindset.
    • H - Hard Work: Follow up and stay persistent.
    • O - Openness: Be open to different perspectives and feedback.
    • R - Reliance: Trust in the goodness of people.
    • C - Curiosity: Ask questions and show genuine interest in others.
    • E - Empathy: Care for and understand the needs of others in networking.

Public Policy Insights

  • Definition of Public Policy: Rules governing interactions and transactions in society; creating an environment where economic activities thrive.
  • ISPP Formation: Established to provide education on public policy and prepare students for roles in various sectors (government, NGOs, private sector).
  • Graduates have pursued diverse roles in government, consulting, and non-profit organizations.

Challenges in Public Policy Field

  • Job Market: Demand for public policy professionals is growing but salaries often do not reflect their importance compared to the private sector.
  • Efforts ongoing to improve understanding and valuation of public policy roles in corporate environments.

Personal Insights

  • Success is often a combination of hard work and luck; many pivotal moments were influenced by chance encounters and opportunities.
  • Importance of continuously learning and adapting; engaging in new ventures can lead to significant growth.

Recommended Books

  • "Why We Sleep" - discusses the importance of sleep.
  • "Why We Fall Sick" - explores health and wellness.
  • "Bad Therapy" - critiques trends in mental health treatment.
  • "How to Know a Person" - insights into building relationships.

Conclusion

  • Emphasis on networking, personal growth, and understanding public policy's role in society.
  • Encouraged to share insights from the discussion and continue exploring the impact of public policy in various sectors.