Sumati Sharma CA, Partner, Oliver Wyman

This International Women’s Day, Sumati Sharma CA, Partner – Aviation at Oliver Wyman, joins Indy to discuss her work to improve gender equality, the importance of transparency in business and founding the Women in Aviation & Aerospace Charter, which is committed to creating a more balanced and fair industry for women. Prior to joining Oliver Wyman, Sumati qualified with EY in 2001 before moving on to join Virgin Atlantic. Over the course of 16 years, Sumati took on a variety of roles at Virgin across finance, strategy, commercial, and HR, covering both the airline and tour operator, Virgin Holidays. Sumati successfully led the design and implementation of the $13 billion expanded joint venture with Delta Air Lines and Air France KLM, creating the pre-eminent transatlantic aviation joint venture that commands a quarter of airline capacity between the UK/Europe and the US. The programme was a success thanks to Sumati’s ability to form strong, meaningful relationships at the most senior levels. Most recently, she led Virgin Atlantic’s COVID-19 cost restructuring program. Beyond her extensive work across strategy and finance, Sumati is a champion for diversity and inclusion in the travel industry, speaking regularly on diversity topics, including at the House of Commons and the Aviation 2050 Conference. She is the Founder and Board Co-Chair for the Women in Aviation & Aerospace Charter. With more than 220 companies listed as signatories and supported by the UK Government, the Charter is committed to creating a more balanced and fair industry for women. Notes: The Women in Aerospace and Aviation Charter Resource Hub - https://www.wiaacharter.com/resource-hub/ Oliver Wyman - Making the Invisible Visible - https://www.oliverwyman.com/our-expertise/insights/2021/jan/women-in-leadership-making-the-invisible-visible.html