Ms. Poonam Karki is a key business leader from Nepal, and sits at the helm of Manaram Group’s financial team as the Chief Financial Officer. Manaram Group is a leading manufacturer and exporter in the Nepali market, and Ms. Poonam has been a key contributor to the company’s financial innovation and growth. Her financial leadership is focused on resilience and sustainability, and is informed by “data, strategic foresight, and ethical judgment.” Ms. Poonam stands as an inspiration for young women entering finance in Nepal and globally, and is a well-deserved recipient of the Women’s Tabloid Award in the category of Excellence in Financial Strategy Leadership – Conglomerate. In this interview with Women’s Tabloid, Ms. Poonam talks about what this award represents for her, sheds light on her financial strategy at Manaram Group, the company’s position in the Nepali market, ESG considerations and her advice to young women in finance. 

Women’s Tabloid: Congratulations on winning the Women’s Tabloid Award in the category Excellence in Financial Strategy Leadership – Conglomerate. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

Ms. Poonam Karki: I’m truly honored to receive the Women’s Tabloid Award for Excellence in Financial Strategy Leadership – Conglomerate.

This recognition is both a personal and professional milestone. Personally, it reinforces my belief in the value of perseverance, integrity, and continuous learning. Professionally, it’s a reflection of the collective effort of my team and the trust placed in me to drive strategic growth and financial innovation within our organization. It inspires me to continue empowering others—especially women in finance—to lead with vision and confidence.

WT: What key principles guide your financial decision-making process in a dynamic business environment?

Ms. Poonam: Our financial decision-making is guided by a balance of prudence, agility, and long-term vision. 

We believe that sustainable growth comes from making informed choices backed by data, strategic foresight, and ethical judgment. Every investment decision is evaluated not only for its profitability but also for its ability to strengthen our core business, enhance operational efficiency, and create long-term value.

We maintain financial discipline through continuous monitoring, scenario planning, and a strong focus on risk management. At the same time, we stay agile—ready to adapt to market shifts and emerging opportunities. Ultimately, our guiding principle is simple: to grow responsibly, ensuring that every financial move contributes to the stability, resilience, and sustainability of our organization.

WT: Manaram Group’s journey from a modest enterprise to a diversified conglomerate reflects sustained financial discipline. What guiding philosophies or long-term frameworks have shaped this transformation?

Ms. Poonam: Our company’s journey from a modest enterprise to a diversified conglomerate has been guided by a philosophy of disciplined innovation and long-term value creation. 

Manaram Group stands today as one of Nepal’s leading manufacturers and exporters of goods and services. What began with the humble export of dog chews (Churpi) and handicrafts to the United States has evolved into a dynamic group of eight thriving enterprises, powered by a dedicated team of more than 350 professionals.

At the heart of our transformation lies an unwavering commitment to financial discipline, strategic diversification, and responsible leadership. Every milestone we’ve achieved has been built on prudent financial planning, ethical governance, and a forward-looking mindset. We have always believed that growth must be sustainable — not just in terms of numbers, but in creating long-term value for our people, partners, and communities.

Our journey reflects the collective strength of our vision and our people — a shared belief that with integrity, innovation, and perseverance, a Nepalese enterprise can make a lasting mark on the global stage.

WT: Given Nepal’s increasingly competitive manufacturing and export ecosystem, how do you ensure Manaram Group’s financial strategies remain both resilient and adaptive?

Ms. Poonam: In an increasingly competitive manufacturing and export landscape, our focus has always been on building financial strategies that are both resilient and adaptive. 

We achieve this through a combination of disciplined planning, diversification, and continuous innovation. By maintaining a strong financial foundation and emphasizing risk management, we ensure stability even during market fluctuations.

At the same time, we keep our strategies flexible — regularly reviewing performance indicators, market trends, and global shifts to make informed adjustments. We also invest in technology, skill development, and operational efficiency to stay ahead of the curve.

Ultimately, resilience for us means staying grounded in sound financial principles, while adaptability comes from our willingness to evolve with changing times — ensuring Manaram Group remains future-ready and competitive on both national and global fronts.

WT: Sustainability is now integral to financial decision-making. How is Manaram Group embedding ESG considerations into its fiscal planning and capital allocation?

Ms. Poonam: At Manaram Group, we view sustainability not as an external obligation but as a core driver of long-term financial value. 

Embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into our fiscal planning and capital allocation ensures that our growth remains both responsible and resilient.

We integrate ESG considerations at every stage of decision-making — from evaluating investments and managing resources to optimizing operations and selecting partners. Our financial plans prioritize energy efficiency, waste reduction, and ethical sourcing, while also supporting community development and employee well-being.

On the governance front, transparency, accountability, and compliance remain non-negotiable. We believe that aligning our financial goals with environmental and social impact is not only the right thing to do but also a strategic imperative for sustained success in today’s global marketplace.

WT: As a woman leader in finance, what message would you share with young women aspiring to leadership roles in this field?

Ms. Poonam: To every young woman aspiring to lead in finance, I would say — believe in your voice, trust your capabilities, and never underestimate the power of persistence. 

This field demands precision, confidence, and courage, but it also rewards integrity and vision.

Challenges will come, but each one will help you grow stronger and wiser. Don’t be afraid to take up space, ask questions, and make bold decisions. Surround yourself with mentors, keep learning, and let your work speak for your potential.

Most importantly, lead with empathy and purpose. Leadership in finance isn’t just about numbers — it’s about creating impact, enabling growth, and inspiring others to rise with you.”