Harper’s Bazaar- Smruti Sriram Shortlisted for 2026 Veuve Clicquot Bold Woman Award

Reflecting on this milestone, Smruti shared:

“I have been attending the Veuve Clicquot Bold Awards events for nearly ten years. Always in awe of the women who win, the sparkling energy in the room, and the beautiful choreography of events with the signature yellow and blue of Veuve Clicquot. I was a Future finalist some years ago, and actually put forward other women for this award this year. I am utterly surprised, but so grateful to the judges, to be on the final shortlist for the 2026 Bold Woman Award.

Since joining the business in 2008, I have grown in confidence and fervour, championing reusable behaviour through exceptional design whilst always remembering the thousands of people involved in our products. Through incredible partnerships, a focus on community-building, and a laser focus on product and material innovation, I am very proud of the business we are, and the mission that we are on. This is a recognition for our entire team, our customers, and our partners, not just me.”

When asked what being a Bold Woman means to her, Smruti said:

“It’s about aligning your moral compass with a commercial compass and making decisions that are bold but not cruel. Observing incredible leaders taught me that humility, respect, an appetite to learn, and a willingness to work hard are essential. Being selfish and only focused on one’s own career success is limiting; giving and being generous can propel you to stages you’d never have dreamed of.”

On failure and growth, she reflected:

“There’s no such thing as failure: be like a rubber band and bounce back. Everything is a learning experience, and some of the most amazing things have been invented by someone not getting what they thought they would get.”

And on leadership habits:

“You have to be humble – but clear. Humility is about asking questions when you don’t understand something. The cleverest leaders make things sound simple, not confusing with technical jargon.”