What I learnt about leadership from Piyush Pandey’s ‘Zinda Dil’ spirit

I had the privilege of partnering with the late Piyush Pandey for more than 11 years — a collaboration that shaped not just my career, but also my perspective on leadership, creativity, and life. Working alongside him was nothing short of a masterclass in humanity and advertising.

Piyush’s command over clients came not from authority but from empathy. His instincts were razor-sharp, his integrity unshakeable, and his warmth genuine.

Whether across a boardroom table or in an informal chat, he had an uncanny ability to connect. Every meeting was charged with insight and energy; a reminder that strong relationships in advertising are built not merely on ideas, but on heart.

The energy that lit up every room

What set Piyush apart was his zinda dil (liveliness) spirit and his unmistakable zest for life. He could light up a room just by walking into it.

His laughter was infectious, and even under immense pressure, he radiated calm assurance. That optimism was not performative; it was deeply rooted in conviction. Around him, creativity flourished because people felt safe to take risks.

Despite his legendary stature, Piyush was remarkably grounded. Success never distanced him from people. He spoke to everyone — from clients to juniors — with the same respect and kindness.

There was an authenticity about him that drew people in. For all his accomplishments, he carried himself with simplicity, proving that greatness and humility can comfortably coexist.

A leader who believed in people, not power

Piyush’s leadership was defined by trust, the kind that empowers rather than controls. I experienced that faith firsthand.

He trusted his teams completely, allowing them to explore, err, and evolve. That freedom became the foundation of our confidence.

His encouragement was never about long speeches. Often, it was just one word. He always called me ‘Champion’. It wasn’t casual — it was a quiet vote of confidence that made me want to live up to his belief.

When Piyush appreciated someone’s work, it felt like the highest honour because it came from someone who truly understood the craft. He had a rare instinct for spotting potential and an even rarer generosity in nurturing it. His praise wasn’t about validation; it was about belief — belief that each person had something remarkable within them, waiting to be discovered.

Lessons in leadership and legacy

Piyush led with clarity, humour, and empathy. He never instructed; he inspired. Even in the tensest situations, he managed to find perspective.

He had an extraordinary ability to simplify complexity, to pull everyone’s focus back to what truly mattered. His belief that creativity thrived in freedom, not fear, defined the culture of every team he led.

What I remember most about him is how he made people feel seen, valued, and heard. In an industry that often celebrates speed over substance, Piyush took the time to notice. He would acknowledge effort, encourage initiative, and remind people that they mattered. That ability to make people believe in themselves was, I think, his greatest gift.

He wasn’t merely a leader or a mentor; he was a force of inspiration. His lessons extended beyond advertising; they were lessons in humility, courage, and joy. He showed us how to find meaning in what we create, and to never lose the spark that makes the creative journey worthwhile.

Piyush’s spirit continues to live on — in the work he built, in the people he mentored, and in the values he embodied. His kindness, humility, and radiant energy remain a compass for what leadership can truly be when it’s driven by heart.

He believed in people, fully, fearlessly, and without reservation. And in doing so, he made each of us believe a little more in ourselves.

- Imtiyaz Vilatra, CEO, Posterscope India