What does it take for women to pivot their careers after 30?

We live in a world where achieving success early on in your career is often glorified. But what does that say for the rest of the world; those who do not make it before 30? Or the ones who decide to switch their careers altogether?

Switching your career at or after 30 may be a daunting decision. And whatever the reason, it’s no secret that switching careers after a certain age can often be looked down upon. But that shouldn’t stop you. It certainly didn’t stop these powerhouses from making it after 30! Here are six remarkable women from different industries such as entertainment, finance, architecture etc who shattered the conventional timeline and carved a niche for themselves in their respective fields.

From actor to EVP New Media

Kim Sharma—EVP New Media, Dharma Cornerstone Agency

Kim Sharma, best known for her roles in Bollywood films like Mohabbatein, pivoted her career trajectory in her mid-thirties. After a fruitful stint in the Indian film industry, Sharma decided to transition into the business side of entertainment. Today, she serves as the executive vice president of Dharma Cornerstone Agency (DCA), a talent management and production company founded by Karan Johar. The former actress currently manages the internet sensation, Orry aka Orhan Awatramani. 

While she is often remembered for being an actor, Sharma shares that she has experimented with her career several times. “In the last 14 years, I worked in the hospitality, brand strategy, wedding, as well as health and fitness industries, and now of course, (in the) talent space. I’ve had so many experiences not because I didn't find joy in anything, but primarily because I love to keep learning and growing as a person.” 

At DCA, she leverages her extensive industry experience and network to foster new talent and manage high-profile clients. Her success in this role is attributed to her deep understanding of the entertainment landscape and her ability to anticipate and adapt to its evolving dynamics. “I’ve been a part of the entertainment industry. I’ve been on the other side of things, I know the expectations, and I understand, to a large extent, what their needs are, and how their minds work, which gives me an edge.” Sharma's journey underscores the importance of transferable skills and industry knowledge in making a successful career pivot.

From artist to fashion designer 

Payal Khandwala—Fashion Designer, Payal Khandwala

Payal Khandwala’s career path is a fusion of art and fashion. She originally trained as a painter and transitioned into fashion design in her mid-thirties, launching her eponymous label that has come to be known for its simple yet bold aesthetic. Talking about the transition, she shared, “I was, in any case, designing my own closet, while I was painting full-time because I could never find clothes I would have liked to wear.” When the opportunity to showcase her work at Fashion Week opened up, she, as she puts it, “embraced it as a nice shift in canvas”. Her designs are a reflection of her artistic background, informed by her experiences as an artist. The pieces are characterised by vibrant colours, intricate textures, and architectural forms. Her unique approach has earned her a distinguished place in the fashion industry, with a clientele that appreciates the fusion of art and wearability.

Despite the significant change, Khandwala did not face resistance from her family or friends. “My family knows I wouldn’t start something unless I’m truly excited about it,” she says, and her friends welcomed the chance to purchase her designs. However, the move was not without its challenges. “Running the business was my biggest challenge,” she admits, highlighting how her husband’s involvement was vital in managing the business aspects. Adapting to a collaborative work environment was another hurdle, contrasting with her solitary painting days.

But would she encourage massive shifts in one’s career? Absolutely. “It’s never too late to start something new. It’s always better than never, and better than the regret of never having tried.” She emphasises that experience and clarity gained with age can be significant advantages, countering misconceptions about starting over. Looking ahead, Khandwala aims to continue her work in fashion while maintaining a focus on quality and craft. Her story is an inspiring reminder that with dedication and vision, remarkable success is achievable at any age.

From marketer to entrepreneur 

Adeline Graham—Founder, Fern and Ade

Adeline Graham began her career in procurement and marketing in the UK. Despite being in the corporate industry for two decades, Graham harboured a passion for interior design and decided to pursue it after she moved to India six years ago. “Over the years, I had many ideas, but when I came to India six years ago it really spoke to me. I was passionate about interior design and decided to move to this field professionally after Covid,” Graham shares. Her frequent business trips to India, especially Chennai, ignited a deeper connection with the country, leading her to a transformative career change.

In late 2022, Graham relocated to Chennai to launch Fern and Ade, a luxury furniture brand curating products from leading European brands. Her showroom, which opened in late 2023, quickly garnered attention for its curated selection of brands like Ethnicraft, Wendelbo, &Tradition, Nanimarquina, and Louis Poulsen. Graham’s venture became synonymous with luxury and elegance in Chennai’s design scene.

Graham’s success is rooted in her ability to combine her corporate skills in procurement and marketing with her passion for design. But the journey was far from easy. Graham recalls losing friends along the way who questioned her decision to move to India. “They thought it was just a phase,” she shares. Despite the challenges, her determination and passion for the craft helped her overcome obstacles with great support from her family and friends who had an unwavering belief in her vision. Looking ahead, Graham plans to expand her business to Mumbai, further solidifying her brand’s presence in India’s luxury market.

From architect to wedding designer/entrepreneur

Sagarika Kaimal—Founder, Mint & Mogra

An architecture graduate from the Oxford School of Architecture, Sagarika Kaimal’s career was defined by stability and creativity. However, she felt constrained by corporate life and decided to transition to a more fulfilling industry and co-founded Mint & Mogra, a bespoke luxury events company. This move allowed her to leverage her architectural skills in a new context—creating detailed and emotionally resonant wedding experiences. Reflecting on her journey, Kaimal shared, “An opportunity to work on a large-scale architectural project came my way in 2018 and within a few weeks I quit my 9-5 job in London, moved to Mumbai and started my new life as a designer. A year later, I ventured into events and transitioned my career from an architect to a wedding designer.”

The transition was challenging, particularly the fast-paced nature of wedding planning compared to architectural projects. However, Kaimal adapted, saying, “The execution timeline for setting up a wedding venue is extremely tight. There are a lot more spontaneous decisions one has to make whilst executing an event—I seem to have adapted to this method and to be honest, I’ve been enjoying it too!”
Her decision was met with scepticism. “My move from London to Mumbai was questioned by many... I chose to take a very uncommon decision,” she recalled. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she faced pressure to abandon Mint & Mogra but instead adapted by promoting home weddings. “Consistency and a strong belief system have played a key role in handling any challenges that have come my way,” she emphasised.

Kaimal advises others considering a career change to embrace adaptability, establish clear objectives, and recognise the transferability of career skills. She believes, “It’s arguably never too late to change your career if you’ve got the right objectives in place.” Looking ahead, she envisions integrating new technologies into her designs and establishing better industry regulations to make India a premier wedding destination.

From investment banker to entrepreneur 

Falguni Nayar—Founder and CEO, Nykaa

Falguni Nayar's career transformation is a shining example of how it's never too late to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams. After a successful 20-year career in investment banking, including a significant tenure as managing director at Kotak Mahindra Capital, Nayar decided to make a bold switch. At the age of 50, she left her high-profile finance job to venture into the beauty and retail industry by founding Nykaa in 2012.

Nayar's decision to pivot was driven by a keen observation of market gaps in India's beauty segment. At the time, the market needed more access to a wide range of beauty products. She saw an opportunity with the rise of e-commerce and aimed to revolutionise the beauty shopping experience for Indian consumers. Nykaa was launched as an online platform that offered a mix of affordable and luxury beauty products, along with a wealth of informational content to guide consumers.

Under Nayar's leadership, Nykaa grew rapidly, evolving from an e-commerce startup to India's premier beauty and wellness retailer. The company's innovative approach included curating a diverse array of products, offering a seamless shopping experience, and educating consumers through blogs and tutorials, which made it a household name and set it apart in a competitive market.

Nayar’s financial acumen and strategic insights were instrumental in steering Nykaa to new heights. In 2021, the company went public, marking one of the most successful IPOs in India. Nykaa’s valuation soared, and Nayar became one of the richest self-made female entrepreneurs in the country. Her journey from finance to founding a beauty empire is a sheer example of the limitless potential for innovation and success at any stage of life.

From investment banker to entrepreneur 

Vineeta Singh—CEO, Sugar Cosmetics

Before founding Sugar Cosmetics, Vineeta Singh had a well-established career in investment banking, with stints at top firms such as Deutsche Bank and Goldman Sachs. However, her entrepreneurial ambitions led her to quit the financial sector and pursue her passion for beauty and cosmetics.

Singh co-founded Sugar Cosmetics in 2012; it quickly gained a cult following for its high-quality, affordable products designed specifically for Indian skin tones. Singh's success can be attributed to her keen business acumen, an eye for market gaps, and her relentless drive to innovate. Under her leadership, Sugar Cosmetics has expanded significantly, becoming a leading player in the Indian beauty market.

Singh's influence extends beyond her role as CEO. She gained widespread recognition through her appearance on the Indian reality TV show Shark Tank India, which further solidified her status as a key figure in the Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem, inspiring countless viewers with her story of resilience and success. 

Singh’s journey from an investment banker to a beauty mogul underscores the importance of following one's passion, no matter how old (or young) you are. Her expertise and understanding of consumer needs positioned Sugar Cosmetics as a symbol of innovative entrepreneurship in India. 

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