An Engineer by degree and a dynamic leader in the finance world. She’s held executive roles in product and marketing management for some of the most prominent global investment banks. Ronak is currently a manager at one of Wall Street’s top firms, advising start ups and successful entrepreneurs on all aspects of asset management with a focus on Impact Investing.

Ronak on work, travel and summer. Photographed by Shan Lee, wearing Kamila Dmowska Francesca Black Dress.

Everyday I start my day with…

I believe its critical to have a morning routine since it sets the tone for the day. I usually get up around 5:45-6am and its typically to the CNBC breaking news alerts on my iPhone. Probably not the most zen way to start the day but hey, it wakes you up! I then check my work email and have a large glass of warm water with fresh squeezed lemon juice followed by a workout which is typically a 45min run by the San Francisco bay on the embarcadero. There’s no better way to jump start your day by taking in all the beauty this city has to offer and it also gives me a chance to reflect and count my blessings. I call it a meditational run! Then shower and head to the office or off site meetings. If traveling for work, I still make good use of the hotel gym, since getting your blood flowing early in the day is crucial to feeling energized all day.

The best part of my job is…

It’s the entrepreneurial aspect of it and the ability to work with some of the brightest people, either as their colleague or advisor. I recently got involved with Impact Investing and this has given me another means to thrive in what I’m mostly passionate about, which is helping solve financial problems and having the opportunity to implement socially responsible investing strategies at the same time.

The most challenging…

We live in a super connected era where having access to the latest technology and information is at the tip of our fingertips. It’s crucial that I think and act couple steps ahead at any given moment. But I guess that’s what keeps things interesting! It’s strategic and tactical, like a game of chess.

How do I keep work and life balance…

Everyday I get closer to my goal of creating an operating systems that allows me to focus more on the important daily decisions versus the routine ones like what to eat, wear, etc. Having daily rituals and being committed to the them have been a huge game changer for me. For instance when I’m not traveling for work, I do little things like meal prep and book my workout classes in advance. This alone allows me to spend more time with loved ones, read, write and reflect.

Never be afraid of…

Speaking up and having a voice. One of my favorite quotes is by Oprah Winfrey: ”You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.”

This summer I will be heading to…

I’ll be sailing in the Croatian islands mid summer and heading to Moscow later for a birthday celebration.

My suitcase will be filled with…

Having worked in Private Equity and jet setting across the country for weeks at a time with a single carry on has made me super efficient with packing. You’ll find essential items that I typically wear as a base with statement pieces for a touch of personality. Style and what we chose to wear is art and gives us the ability to express ourselves and say who we are without having to say a word. With that said, you will find ”Ronak” pieces, SPF moisturizers and EmergenC packs to stay hydrated.

Favorite place in the world to relax…

Italian Riviera…I love Italian cuisine and its vibrant culture. So pair that with Mediterranean salty weather and picture perfect scenery…viola! Magic!

What do you wish you could tell your younger self at 21… 

Focus more on finding what makes you feel alive and go on solving world problems that are aligned with your passion. It’s easy to get discouraged at a young age and think your work is not making a big enough impact, but no matter how small of a role you have in a small project, you’re still creating the ripple effect which will lead to the impact you’re seeking. Look at the big picture, be patient and try to give back while at it.