From analyst to vice president: A journey of growth, grit, and giving back at Deloitte
Ranjitha Mallampati, vice president with the Risk & Brand Protection group at Deloitte Support Services India Private Limited, has dedicated more than two decades to building and leading ethics and compliance programs across the financial services landscape. In this blog post, she reflects on her own journey—from joining Deloitte as an analyst to managing some of the major ethics and compliance initiatives—and sharing insights gained along the way.
When I look back at my 18-year journey with Deloitte, I’m reminded that sometimes, some of the most transformative paths begin not with a grand plan, but with a leap of faith—and a little necessity.
A leap of faith
I didn’t set out to join Deloitte with a clear vision of where I’d end up. In fact, when I applied, I was a single mom, my daughter just a toddler, and I was simply searching for stability after a yearlong career break. During my audit internships, I’d worked across industries in India, from banking to education. But life had taken a turn, and I needed a new beginning.
A friend referred me to Deloitte, and when the offer came, I grabbed it—not because I knew what Deloitte stood for, but because I was in desperate need of a job. I started as an analyst in the Audit team, a small group back then. I remember being asked during my interview if I was sure about joining as an analyst, given my experience. My answer was simple: “I don’t know what the future holds, but I’m confident that when opportunities arise, I’ll be ready to take them.” This confidence became my compass.
Moments that matter
Early on, one of several pivotal moments shaped my journey. After my first year, a reviewer, known for her tough standards, praised my work, saying reviewing my files felt like a vacation. That feedback meant more to me than any formal recognition. It was a reminder that excellence, even in the smallest tasks, gets noticed.
My career was far from a straight line. I moved from Audit to Risk Management, and then unexpectedly into Ethics. I remember asking my leader why he chose me for the Ethics role. His answer stuck with me: “I’ve been observing you. No matter what happened, you never lost your integrity.” That trust, built quietly over the years, became the foundation for my leadership.
Learning the power of people
If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be to never underestimate the value of people skills. Early in my career, I was focused just on the tasks at hand—detail-oriented and determined to provide insights. But as I grew, I realized that technical skills alone could not be enough.
Communication, empathy, and the ability to build relationships could set leaders apart at Deloitte. I learned this not just through formal training, but also by watching leaders around me. The culture here is one where people come first. Leaders are committed to investing in their teams, trusting their people, and helping create opportunities for growth. That’s what makes Deloitte special, and it’s why I’ve stayed all these years.
Overcoming challenges
Some of the biggest hurdles I faced were personal—balancing work and motherhood, managing late nights, and navigating uncertainties. My parents were my rock, caring for my daughter when work demanded my time. At work, I built a support system of colleagues and mentors who had my back. To all professionals, I say don’t be afraid to lean on your support systems, both at home and at work. Building a network isn’t just about professional advancement; it’s about having people who lift you up when things get tough.
The power of raising your hand
Growth at Deloitte might not be handed to you; it’s something you may have to seek out. I made it a point to volunteer for new projects, take on additional responsibilities, and consistently ask for feedback. Even after promotions, I looked for ways to learn new processes and expand my skill set. It wasn’t always easy, but it kept me motivated and helped me avoid stagnation.
For those joining Deloitte at a level lower than they expected, especially after a career break, my advice is to focus on the larger picture. Don’t get discouraged by short-term setbacks. With patience, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, you could catch up and even surpass your own expectations.
Giving back: Mentoring the next generation
One of the most rewarding parts of my journey has been mentoring other professionals. Whether through formal programs or informal conversations, I’ve made it a point to share my experiences—the ups and the downs. I don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I believe that by sharing our stories, we help each other grow.
What makes Deloitte different
If I had to name one thing that’s remained constant at Deloitte, it’s the culture. The trust placed in employees, the commitment to values, and the investment in people’s growth helps set Deloitte apart. I’ve seen this through initiatives and programs conducted for the employees’ children. The focus on inclusion and development isn’t just talk—it’s woven into the fabric of the firm.
Looking ahead
I believe there’s a lot of potential for the professionals at Deloitte. There are robust systems for leadership development, and opportunities abound for those willing to step up. My journey is one of the proofs that with grit and a willingness to learn, you could shape your own path here.
Every story starts with a single step. Make yours count!
About the author:
Ranjitha Mallampati is a vice president with the Risk & Brand Protection group, managing Ethics & Compliance programs at Deloitte Support Services India Private Limited. With 23 years of experience spanning audit, independence, ethics, and compliance, she drives key initiatives that promote ethics and integrity across the organization. Recognized for her ethical leadership, as well as her ability to build ethical awareness and proactively engage stakeholders, Ranjitha is passionate about empowering teams, advancing some of the best practices in ethics and compliance, and supporting employee engagement and organizational culture. Her dedication to fostering a culture of integrity is evident in her ongoing efforts to shape and uphold Deloitte’s values.