In 2024, WBENC continues its inspiring tradition by celebrating the WBE Stars for their remarkable achievements, contributing invaluable leadership, innovation, and influence on the dynamic business landscape. Each handpicked by one of the 14 Regional Partner Organizations (RPOs), these women serve as a wellspring of inspiration for others within their communities. The recognition they receive through the WBE Star Award is a powerful testament to the profound impact they’ve made in their respective business environments.
The 2024 WBE Stars received their accolades at the vibrant WBENC National Conference, a grand event held from March 19-22, 2024, in Denver, Colorado. This conference was a hub of innovation and networking, drawing nearly 5,000 entrepreneurs and business leaders who celebrated the accomplishments of these extraordinary women.
But the celebration doesn’t end there. Throughout 2024, WBENC will continue to spotlight these trailblazing women in various dynamic formats, including an engaging article series and captivating feature articles in WE USA Magazine this summer. Prepare to be inspired!
Meet Ashwini Vasudeva, Co-Founder of Astute, with the Women’s Business Enterprise Council Pacific (WBEC Pacific) Regional Partner Organization. She is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in public accounting and diverse industries, demonstrating both financial acumen and operational prowess. At Astute, a value-add Certified Accounting and Business Advisory firm, Ashwini leverages her expertise to navigate complex financial landscapes, enabling companies to achieve compliance, maximize revenue recovery, and optimize profitability, thereby fueling long-term success.
In her role as Finance Leader for clients, she navigates transitions with agility, instilling financial stability and guiding strategic initiatives for enduring growth.
Get inspired by Ashwini and stay tuned for our 2024 WBENC Stars article series throughout 2024!
Astute epitomizes innovation and excellence, offering premier Finance and Business Advisory services. Their client-centric approach focuses on strategies designed to propel businesses towards growth, guaranteeing compliance, revenue resurgence, and enhanced profitability. With a comprehensive suite of solutions including Fractional/Interim CFO services, Internal Audits, including SOX Compliance and meticulous Forensic Audits, and Data Analytics. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as Gen AI and predictive analytics, Astute spearheads Business Process Automation initiatives to streamline operations and drive efficiency gains. With a profound grasp of industry nuances and a steadfast dedication to innovation, Astute equips businesses to thrive amidst today’s competitive landscape.
Ashwini embodies the essence of a finance leader, blending her exceptional business acumen with a gift for effective communication to consistently drive financial prosperity for her clients. A seasoned speaker, she shares her expertise on Financial Management and strategic business optimization with business owners, CEOs, and CFOs, equipping them with actionable strategies for enhancing cash flows and achieving sustainable growth. Beyond her professional endeavors, Ashwini is deeply committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, holding leadership roles in non-profit organizations like WBENC, WBEC-Pacific, and WRMSDC. Her passion for driving success extends beyond the boardroom, as she actively contributes to initiatives that foster diversity and inclusivity in communities and organizations.
The 2024 theme is AMPLIFY. What does AMPLIFY mean to you?
“In essence, AMPLIFY embodies a philosophy of empowering, collaborating and fostering growth, in both personal and professional aspects of life.”
When and how was your business started?
Our journey commenced in June 2014, driven by a shared vision to address a significant service gap within larger organizations. Drawing on our expertise as finance leaders, Sandhya Mukkamala and I founded Astute, recognizing the need for specialized services that bridge critical gaps in financial operations and compliance. With my background at KPMG, LLP, focusing on financial and internal auditing for Compliance Audit Programs, and Ms. Mukkamala’s expertise in M&A, we were uniquely positioned to fill this void. Astute’s inception was fueled by our commitment to excellence and customer success, as we set out to cultivate a culture of innovation and service excellence.
What is one way you recommend people to “AMPLIFY” the impact of the WBENC network in the next 2 years?
To AMPLIFY the impact of the WBENC network, I would recommend on cultivating and promoting cross-industry collaboration among WBEs. By fostering collaborative ventures, the network can enhance the collective knowledge, and market presence of WBEs, thus leading to shared growth and success.
How are you planning to AMPLIFY the mission of the WBENC network during your time as a WBE Star?
Here are some examples: Establish Industry-Specific Task Forces or Committees, Organize Industry-Specific Workshops to share and brainstorm ideas with other WBEs, Advocate Cross-industry collaborations/ventures, and Encourage Collaborative Product or Service Development amongst WBEs.
Provide an example of how innovation helped you overcome a challenge, pivot, or adapt your business.
The introduction of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) within the firm for repetitive tasks has not only streamlined processes but resulted in a significant reduction in task duration. This has, in turn, elevated productivity and optimized resource utilization for greater efficiency.
What areas of innovation do you foresee for women entrepreneurs over the next few years?
Technology and automation, there will be many opportunities for WBEs to leverage AI/ML and other new technologies. Also, Sustainability and Eco-Friendly initiatives, WBEs can lead in the development of green technology and renewable energy. In addition, there will be opportunities for WBEs to innovate and advance in FinTech sector. Lastly, Cybersecurity Solutions with WBEs implementing the right protocols for cybersecurity solutions.
What have you learned about yourself as a leader from mentoring or coaching others?
Engaging in mentorship or coaching has taught me the importance of patience and the value of honing effective listening skills. Through this experience, I’ve gained a heightened awareness of my strengths and weaknesses, enabling me to channel them more effectively through a commitment to continuous learning.
What do you view as benefits of being part of the WBENC network?
Being part of the WBENC network is not only about getting business opportunities but also about the community that supports and empowers women entrepreneurs. The benefits extend beyond the immediate business realm (such as education resources, mentors collaboration/advocacy and networking), contributing to personal and professional growth.
How has engaging in the WBENC Network as a Certified WBE helped your company?
Engaging with the WBENC Network as a Certified WBE has significantly expanded the Firm’s reach nationally and internationally. Particularly providing educational sessions through WeThrive, has not only enhanced our firm’s credibility but also contributed to personal and professional growth. The network’s collaborative environment has facilitated valuable connections and opened doors to potential partnerships and clients.
What suggestions would you like to share with a newly certified WBE who is looking to get involved in the WBENC community?
My suggestion to newly certified WBE would be to attend local and national WBENC events, actively engage in local RPOs, do not miss out on educational resources, collaborate with fellow WBEs, and seek mentorship within the huge community.
