In the evolving landscape of corporate leadership, unconventional roles are emerging to address the nuanced needs of modern organisations. One such pioneering designation is the “Chief Belief Officer” (CBO), a role epitomised by Devdutt Pattanaik during his tenure at India’s Future Group.
Kishore Biyani, the founder of Future Group, recognised the profound influence of cultural narratives and belief systems on organisational behaviour. To harness this, he appointed Pattanaik—a physician turned mythologist and author—as the CBO. This role was conceived to integrate the rich tapestry of Indian mythology into the company’s ethos, aiming to align employee beliefs with corporate objectives .
Pattanaik’s approach involved contextualising workplace scenarios through mythological frameworks. For instance, he likened employees who adhered to routines without embracing organisational values to “Duryodhana” from the Mahabharata, emphasising the need for leaders to sometimes transcend conventional boundaries to uphold the greater good. He also drew parallels between corporate structures and ancient rituals, viewing enterprises as “yagnas” (sacrificial rituals), with CEOs as “Yajamans” (sacrificers) and managers as “Ritwiks” (priests).
This mythological lens provided employees with a deeper understanding of their roles, fostering a sense of purpose and alignment with the company’s vision. Under Pattanaik’s guidance, Future Group expanded its retail presence significantly, attributing part of its success to this unique integration of belief systems into business strategy .
The concept of a Chief Belief Officer underscores the importance of cultural and emotional intelligence in leadership. By acknowledging and integrating diverse belief systems, organisations can cultivate a more cohesive and motivated workforce. This role exemplifies how ancient wisdom can be leveraged to navigate contemporary business challenges, offering a holistic approach to organisational development.
In an era where businesses are increasingly recognising the value of inclusivity and cultural resonance, the CBO role serves as a testament to the power of aligning organisational practices with the underlying beliefs of its people. It challenges traditional leadership paradigms, advocating for a more empathetic and narrative-driven approach to management.