If not a marketer, next interesting profession would have been a lawyer: Azmat Habibulla

Adgully’s special feature section – ‘Offbeat’ – seeks to give a peek into the lesser known facets of our very well-known industry leaders. We present, in the industry leaders’ own words, an interesting read on areas that are not usually highlighted in regular media coverage – be it about their childhood days, secret skills that they possess, how they unwind from their hectic schedules, and much more…

Azmat Habibulla, Chief Marketing Officer, South Indian Bank, is a marketing executive and digital enthusiast with over 25 years of experience directing business transformation at some of the country’s biggest FMCG and BFSI firms. She specialises in digital marketing and business development, marketing communication and branding, experiential and knowledge events, strategic alliances, community building, and thought leadership projects. Habibulla is enthusiastic about coaching and investing time in developing talent.

Who is Azmat Habibulla when not wearing the hat of South Indian Bank’s CMO?

I am a traveller, an adventurer, an avid reader, travel blogger and an artist.

Which is your favourite place to travel and which was your most recent trip?

For me travel is anywhere in India and across the world, there are lots of interesting places to visit. Last year, I went to Kashmir. Just before COVID, I was lucky enough to go to Norway and witness the northern lights and I came back right in time at the end of February, right before the lockdown.

If you had to choose one place where you could live forever, which place would that be?

In India, the Himalayas, somewhere in the hills, in some quiet and scenic places, like I visited Spiti Valley a couple of years ago and there are a lot of small towns that are so beautiful, the view is breathtaking and I enjoy doing things like farming. And this is coming from me, a city girl who has always been in Mumbai, with the buzz of Mumbai, so it is quite peaceful there.

If not a marketer, which other profession would you have chosen?

If not a marketer, for me the next interesting profession would have been a lawyer.

I was quite intrigued with this profession earlier. While I was pursuing my MBA, I was also studying law, until it reached a point where I really couldn’t manage both, so I left it temporarily, thinking I’ll get back to it later, but I never did.

Which is your go-to activity to chill and relax?

Netflix and Chill is always my favourite. I am also a voracious reader, I love reading all kinds of books.