30Under30 Honouree: Kiran Auti

Great to hear from Significant Insights Global 30 under 30 honouree Kiran Auti, who is dedicated to transforming data into actionable insights and helping brands connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.

So, how did you get into the industry, and take us through how you got to this point?

Like many of my peers, I stumbled into the market research industry, and I couldn’t be happier about it. My journey began unexpectedly with a strong foundation in Chemical Engineering—a path I never envisioned for myself, sparked by a fascination and curiosity with organic chemistry in 12th grade.

As I neared the end of my engineering studies, I realized my passion lay in management, which led me to pursue an MBA. It was during this time that I discovered my interest in brand dynamics and strategy. My curiosity about how brands operate drove me to turn down sales job placements and seek an opportunity with Ipsos.

I believe many can relate to finding themselves in this field by chance, but my innate curiosity has been a significant factor in my success. Each twist in my journey connects back to one thing – Curiosity, shaping my career in market research.

Why should anyone consider a career in market research, data and insights?

If you’re considering a career in our sector, my main piece of advice is to nurture your curiosity. Each piece of data has its own story, and your role is to reveal that story. This career is an exciting adventure of exploration and problem-solving, where you can transform what might seem like simple numbers into meaningful insights that can influence decisions. Embrace the journey of discovery—it’s truly rewarding.

Career paths are rarely without challenges. Can you share an honest moment from your career when things didn’t go quite according to plan, but the lessons remain with you to this day?

In my career, one of the most challenging moments came early in my role at Ipsos. I was leading a significant project with a tight deadline, and despite my best efforts, we encountered unexpected obstacles that delayed our progress. It was frustrating, as I had invested so much time and energy into planning.

At that moment, I realized that flexibility and adaptability are crucial in this field. Rather than sticking rigidly to the original plan, I learned to pivot quickly and collaborate more effectively with my team. We regrouped, brainstormed solutions, and ultimately delivered valuable insights, albeit later than initially intended.

This experience taught me that setbacks can lead to growth and innovation. Now, I approach challenges with a mindset of curiosity and openness, knowing that each obstacle can be a learning opportunity. Those lessons have shaped how I tackle future projects and engage with my team.

What two things should junior researchers focus on as they progress in their careers?

First, always seek to learn. Each project is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on society. Remember, you’re helping people make informed decisions about products and brands that can truly make a difference. Approach every assignment with the mindset that there’s something valuable to gain from it.

Second, never hesitate to ask questions. Every project comes with its own set of challenges, and asking the right questions is crucial. Engage with your seniors to understand every aspect of the study—whether it’s the brief, the analysis, or the reporting. Familiarize yourself with the “whys,” “hows,” and “whens” of market research. My own growth has been significantly shaped by the questions I’ve asked along the way.

Do you have any advice for our sector?

My advice for our sector is to fully embrace the power of innovation and technology. As we navigate an increasingly data-driven landscape, it’s essential that we leverage new tools and methodologies to enhance our insights and efficiency. This means investing in advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to sift through vast amounts of data and uncover deeper consumer insights.

And do you have anyone who has helped your career so far that you’d like to acknowledge and say thanks or give a shout out to?

I’d like to take a moment to express my gratitude to those who have significantly influenced my career. Many colleagues and friends have played a role in shaping who I am as a researcher, but two individuals stand out.

First, Archana Gupta, Executive Director, MSU & Shopper at Ipsos India. She was instrumental in my early days at Ipsos, teaching me the ABCD of market research. Thank you, Archana, for making me wiser and bolder, and for instilling in me your “Everything is doable” attitude. Thank you for always believing in me.

Second, Kanika Gupta, Research Director at Ipsos India, has also been a vital influence on my career. She’s someone I deeply admire, and beyond her extensive research knowledge, she has taught me to approach life with an optimistic lens —an invaluable lesson I will carry with me for life.

I also want to acknowledge my incredible team at Ipsos, who believed in me and supported my growth. Thank you all. Thanks to my wonderful parents for always believing and supporting me.