Tushar Gunderia

Architect of Ethical Leadership

Tushar Gunderia

Head (Legal & Compliance) & Company Secretary

Blue Dart

These profound words hold immense relevance in today’s corporate landscape, where trust is the cornerstone of success. For Blue Dart Express Limited, India’s logistics leader, a sterling reputation is not just an accolade—it’s a necessity. This trust has been meticulously cultivated and safeguarded by one of its pivotal leaders, Tushar Gunderia. With over three decades of experience, Tushar’s career began in a Chartered Accountant firm, where curiosity and determination laid the foundation for his expertise in corporate law, governance, and strategic thinking. As SVP, Head (Legal & Compliance), and Company Secretary, Tushar is not just a leader but a strategist and mentor who exemplifies ethical governance. His leadership philosophy, guided by the principles of resilience, foresight, and dedication, emphasises that “there is no substitute for hard work” while recognising that commitment and passion are the keys to long-term success. Blue Dart, under Tushar’s leadership, has consistently upheld the highest standards of compliance and governance excellence, cementing its status as India’s most trusted logistics provider. Through his visionary leadership, the company has seamlessly navigated complex regulatory landscapes and maintained a spotless record of ethical practices. In an exclusive TradeFlock interview, Tushar offers insights into his inspiring journey and the art of building trust in a competitive world.

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.” – Warren Buffett

How did your professional journey shape you?

Looking back, my journey has been a mosaic of experiences. I started as an intern at M/s. A.B. Ankhad & Associates, Advocates & Solicitors, where six years in corporate legal affairs shaped my foundation. I joined the Welspun Group in 1992 and broadened my expertise across financial and corporate domains. Since joining Blue Dart in 1998, I have led Legal, Compliance, and Governance functions for over 26 years, learning from exceptional leaders and strengthening the company’s culture of excellence. Born and raised in Bombay, I deeply value networking and relationship management. My passion for travel has further fueled my curiosity, offering me diverse perspectives and a global outlook.

How did challenges shape your leadership style?

Growth happens where comfort ends, and the 2004-05 acquisition of Blue Dart by DHL was the ultimate test of that belief. Overseeing tasks such as listing compliances, RBI permissions, and takeover code compliances pushed me to my limits but also defined my leadership journey. Through it all, I learned that ‘resilience is the backbone of leadership’. This experience not only sharpened my professional acumen but also instilled optimism and balance, enabling me to turn challenges into opportunities for growth. My leadership philosophy, inspired by DHL’s “Head, Heart, and Guts” framework, integrates intelligence for strategic decision-making, empathy to connect with teams and stakeholders, and courage to make bold yet compassionate decisions.

How has technology revolutionised compliance in your role?

Technology is my compliance superpower, transforming challenges into streamlined solutions. Internal compliance software tracks regulations, automated modules prevent claims, and digital systems simplify legal processes—driving efficiency and sustainability. AI is the future, offering instant insights while tackling privacy and regulatory risks. Embracing cutting-edge tech ensures we stay ahead in a fast-changing world.

What is the best advice you would share with other leaders?

As a leader, I believe compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about creating real value. Trust, reputation and goodwill are the pillars of any sustainable business. For me, ethical governance isn’t just a duty; it’s the legacy we leave behind. I’d tell aspiring leaders to stay optimistic and lead with empathy. Challenges are temporary, but how we treat people defines us. Even in tough times, a positive outlook and clear goals keep your team inspired and focused. And don’t underestimate the power of networking—it opens doors to fresh ideas and opportunities. Leadership is about more than strategy; it’s about creating a lasting impact.

What is the most impactful responsibility you’ve undertaken at Blue Dart?

When I joined Blue Dart, it felt like a close-knit family under its founder-promoters. The most critical responsibility in my role came during the transformative 2004–2005 period when eminent Global Logistics Group viz; DHL, acquired a majority stake in the company. Leading this transition as a listed entity required precision and resilience. Collaborating with top-tier consultants and navigating rigorous due diligence, I ensured a seamless integration, balancing compliance with business success. Adapting to DHL’s global standards is a defining moment and a continuous journey towards higher excellence, strengthening Blue Dart’s governance while maintaining its core values. My ability to manage complex transitions and regulatory frameworks, coupled with meticulous attention to detail contributed towards positioning Blue Dart as a trusted leader in the logistics industry. The company’s robust compliance framework and innovative solutions continue to set benchmarks in the sector.

What accomplishments make you most proud?

My biggest achievement lies in what hasn’t happened. Blue Dart’s spotless record—no major claims, litigations, or penalties—stands as a testament to consistent excellence. Contributing to accolades like the Golden Peacock Award for Corporate Ethics and the Council for Fair Business Practices Award showcases the trust we’ve earned.But if I had to choose a single moment that left an indelible mark, it would be standing in Times Square as NASDAQ Governance Solutions welcomed me into their prestigious community. Seeing the Blue Dart-DHL brand light up the iconic NASDAQ tower was surreal—a proud emblem of our journey and achievements. I’m equally proud of Blue Dart’s continuous recognition for ethical practices and innovation. Knowing we’ve set the bar high in reliability and service makes it more than just a job—it’s a legacy of trust and excellence.

If granted a superpower, what would you choose, and how would you use it?

It would be the mastery of AI. As they say, ‘Knowledge is power, but wisdom is applying it,’ AI represents the perfect fusion of knowledge and actionable insight, enabling faster decisionmaking and problem-solving. Harnessing AI’s potential would make businesses smarter and future-ready, aligning with his vision for innovation-driven growth.