- Manisha Gupta noticed a critical gap in leadership decision-making: financial acumen often overshadowed the importance of people dynamics.
- She developed the concept of ‘People Intelligence,’ which combines psychological insights with technological tools to optimize human potential within organizations.
- At Oracle, she leads the development of AI-driven tools to address skill gaps, reduce attrition, and optimize team dynamics, creating meaningful workplace experiences.
- Her Three-Step People Intelligence framework focuses on aligning talent strategies, fostering authentic leadership, and empowering individual growth within organizations.
- Beyond Oracle, Manisha co-founded WearVedic, co-authored When We Talk, Let’s REALLY Talk, an Amazon bestseller, with her daughters, and mentors future leaders, all reflecting her mission to unlock potential on various fronts.
What’s the most valuable asset in business? Most would say data, technology, or maybe capital. For Manisha Gupta, Vice President of Products for People Intelligence at Oracle “It’s people.” And she has spent over 25 years proving it.
At Oracle, Manisha leads the charge on a concept she calls People Intelligence—a powerful mix of psychology and AI that helps businesses unlock potential hiding in plain sight. Her work is built on a simple idea: happy, aligned people create the most effective teams, and effective teams are the bedrock of every successful company.
Manisha’s career exemplifies this philosophy. From innovating at CafePress to making LinkedIn Jobs a staple investment for corporations, expanding eBay’s advertising reach, and now driving People Intelligence at Oracle, her focus has always been on empowering people, streamlining processes, and leveraging technology to enable sustainable growth. “When individuals thrive, teams flourish, and companies excel,” she says—a mantra that drives her every move.
But this is not just theory. Manisha is showing the world how to do it. She has helped develop AI tools that predict skill gaps, identify future leaders, and even reduce employee attrition—all while creating workplaces where people feel valued and inspired. Her leadership balances hard data with a human touch, a rare skill in today’s fast-paced world.
Her contributions have not gone unnoticed. Manisha has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Women in Tech, one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Technology for 2024, and even earned a spot on the 2016 Best EMBAs list by the Wharton School.
Manisha’s journey also spans ventures outside the corporate sphere—co-founding WearVedic, penning an Amazon bestseller with her daughters, and mentoring aspiring leaders worldwide. These efforts reflect her broader mission: unlocking potential at every level, whether in boardrooms, communities, or families.
In this cover story, you’ll learn how Manisha is using AI to transform the workplace, why her leadership style puts people first, and what her journey can teach us all about thriving in an age of rapid change. Once you see her vision in action, you’ll realize that the future of business isn’t just about AI. It’s about the people who make it work.
MR: Your career is a fascinating blend of technology and human psychology. Can you tell us more about what initially sparked your interest in this unique intersection?
Manisha: I’ve always been curious about how technology can enhance human experiences. It’s not just about creating tools; it’s about building solutions that truly understand and elevate human potential. I believe that by combining the power of technology with insights from psychology, we can solve real-world problems and create a better future. My background in computer science, coupled with an MBA from Wharton, has given me the tools to bridge the gap between technical innovation and real-world impact.
Over the past 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of leading high-performing teams at organizations like LinkedIn, eBay, Cisco, and various startups. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my approach to leadership and innovation.
At Oracle, I’m focused on People Intelligence. This work allows me to bring together psychology and technology to empower businesses and individuals. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of a team that’s making a meaningful impact on the future of work.
MR: You’ve coined the term “People Intelligence.” Can you elaborate on what inspired you to introduce this concept and how it differs from traditional leadership approaches?
Manisha: People Intelligence is a holistic approach to leadership that goes beyond traditional metrics and focuses on the human element.
I always believed that happy, engaged people create effective teams, and effective teams drive profitable and sustainable businesses. However, I noticed a common oversight in many organizations: a focus on financial metrics without equal attention to people dynamics.
This led me to develop the concept of People Intelligence, which combines psychological insights with technological tools to optimize human potential within organizations. By doing so, it creates a ripple effect: engaged people lead to high-performing teams, which, in turn, drive sustainable business outcomes.
“To me, ‘People Intelligence’ is part psychology, part technology, and wholly essential for everyone—even if they haven’t quite realized it yet.”
MR: How did “People Intelligence” come to life?
Manisha: To bring this concept to life, I developed the “Three-Step People Intelligence” framework.
The first step is about strategic alignment. It helps executives align talent strategies with business objectives, ensuring that the right people are in the right roles to drive growth.
The second step focuses on authentic leadership. It empowers managers to build strong relationships with their teams, fostering a culture of trust, respect, and collaboration.
The final step is about personal development. It helps individuals understand themselves better, recognize their strengths and weaknesses, and develop the skills they need to succeed.
MR: Could you share more about your current role at Oracle and the specific areas where you’re applying People Intelligence?
Manisha: I am leading the Product Management team for our People Intelligence suite. At Oracle, we are an AI-driven company offering solutions across diverse areas, from databases and cloud infrastructure to advanced analytics within SaaS products like HCM, ERP, SCM, and CX. Our mission is to help people see data in new ways, discover insights, and unlock endless possibilities.
We use AI and analytics extensively in this approach, guided by the “DI AI” framework—Data to Insights, Actions to Impact—to turn information into actionable guidance while ensuring innovation is balanced with responsible governance.
One of the standout examples is our AI-driven tools at Oracle. We developed a product that identifies skill gaps without requiring manual input, enabling leaders to address attrition and skills shortages proactively.
Another tool analyzes team dynamics to uncover what makes teams effective, helping organizations identify strong managers who can mentor others. These tools support better decision-making and create environments where employees can thrive, making work more meaningful for everyone involved.
MR: How do you balance innovation with sustainability and foster a culture of collaboration within your teams?
Manisha: I believe technology should not only disrupt but also transform organizations and communities in a sustainable way. To achieve this, it is essential to balance innovation with practical application. We work closely with our customers and stakeholders to understand their evolving needs and align our technology solutions accordingly.
I am passionate about creating a culture of innovation and collaboration. By fostering a sense of purpose and belonging, we empower our team to think creatively and take risks. We encourage experimentation, learning from failures, and celebrating successes. Ultimately, our goal is to build a team that is not just talented but also passionate about making a difference.
MR: How would you describe your leadership style, and what principles guide your approach to leading teams?
Manisha: I believe in a purpose-driven and people-centered approach to leadership. It’s about understanding and empowering individuals and creating a culture of trust and collaboration.
“Building trust requires empathy, discipline, and courage, but the results—a high-performing and engaged team—are always worth it.”
I adapt my approach based on individual needs, whether that involves coaching, offering clear direction, or simply listening. This fosters a culture of awareness, candor, and continuous growth. While I prioritize people, I also keep the bigger picture in focus, balancing strategic vision with tactical execution. Even small, consistent improvements—just 1% daily—can drive remarkable progress.
With rapid advancements in technology, especially in AI, I remain deeply involved in product innovation. I actively explore how these tools can enhance both work and life. My approach to leadership is “all in” with every commitment, focusing on genuine connections and the joy of collaborative work.
MR: You’ve also authored a book with your daughters. Can you tell us more about it and what inspired you to write together?
Manisha: Absolutely. My writing focuses on fostering strong relationships, developing a coaching mindset, and leading a purpose-driven life. In 2025, I’ll launch my latest book on People Intelligence.
One project I’m particularly proud of is a collaboration with my daughters, Naveli and Nitya Garg. Together, we wrote “When We Talk, Let’s REALLY Talk.”
This book grew out of our own family conversations and the belief that empowerment starts at home. We wanted to explore how strong family bonds can build emotional resilience in everyone. It’s become an Amazon bestseller and delves into psychology, leadership, and personal growth. It resonates with readers who want to build stronger relationships in all aspects of life, from home to work.
“When We Talk, Let’s REALLY Talk” emphasizes the power of active listening and a sense of belonging. It shows how simple family interactions can help us overcome biases, expectations, and distractions in everyday life. Each chapter offers practical insights into building trust, courage, compassion, and a strong support system – highlighting the family as a training ground for deeper conversations throughout life.
The book has sparked a movement of meaningful dialogue, which continues through their platform, NaviNiti.com.
MR: You’ve recently launched a new venture, WearVedic. Can you tell us more about this exciting initiative?
Manisha: WearVedic is a unique venture that combines fashion and personal growth. Inspired by Vedic wisdom and modern design, we’ve created a line of statement necklaces and apparel that feature inspiring stories of real-life role models. We believe that when you see it, you can be it.
Each piece is more than just an accessory; it embodies values like courage, compassion, and resilience. It tells a story and inspires the wearer to embody the qualities of the role model.
WearVedic is a movement. We encourage people to share their own growth stories and inspire others. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels empowered to reach their full potential.
MR: Who have been your most influential role models?
Manisha: Role models have a unique way of inspiring us, whether they’re part of our everyday lives or admired from afar. For me, my late father, Vijay Prakash Gupta, has been the most significant influence. His curiosity and courage were remarkable for his time. He saw potential in everyone and encouraged my mother to pursue her independence. While other parents in our neighborhood imposed restrictions on their daughters, my father empowered me to ride my bike, run errands, and take buses to the college of my choice. The confidence he instilled laid the foundation for everything I am today.
He taught me to balance purpose, empathy, and resilience—standing up for my rights while maintaining respect. His lessons in awareness and acceptance continue to guide me, showing how personal growth can create space for collective progress.
On a broader scale, I draw inspiration from figures like Elon Musk and Satya Nadella, though for different reasons. Elon’s relentless pursuit of bold dreams encourages me to take risks and aim high, while Satya’s compassionate, people-focused leadership shows the power of putting people and purpose first. His work at Microsoft exemplifies how empathy and innovation can drive business success.
I also find enduring wisdom in Vedic stories. Figures like the River Ganga teach resilience and grace, reminding me to embrace challenges with an open heart and connect meaningfully with others. Draupadi from the Mahabharata embodies strength and justice, standing firm in her values while working harmoniously with those around her. ShivShakti reinforces the importance of coexistence and collaboration for sustainable happiness. These lessons constantly ground me in the values of courage, curiosity, compassion, conviction, and credibility—all with a touch of joy!
Our statement necklaces and apparel are inspired by these role models and serve as a badge of pride to showcase our values. When you can see it, you can be it. And we encourage you to show it, letting the chain reaction of inspiring Role Models continue…
MR: Outside of work, what are some activities that keep you grounded and motivated?
Manisha: I’m an avid hiker, traveler, and a lifelong student of Vedic sciences. Exploring nature and traveling allows me to recharge and gain new perspectives. Above all, being a mother is one of the most grounding and rewarding experiences for me. It’s a constant reminder of what truly matters and keeps me motivated to contribute meaningfully in both my personal and professional life.
MR: Can you share the key milestones and lessons from your 25-year journey in tech, and how they shaped your leadership and vision?
Manisha: Over my 25-year career in tech, I’ve navigated roles spanning engineering to sales management, with a focus on understanding the “why” behind my actions. Long before titles like “product manager” or “people analytics” became mainstream, I gravitated toward these roles because I wanted to understand real-world difficulties and make a significant contribution.
Like many professionals, I’ve experienced the balance between fitting in and staying authentic—a journey that’s been both rewarding and challenging. Expecting more from life than others expected of me often led to hurdles, but my curiosity and drive for deeper questions about coexistence and connection kept me moving forward.
Earning respect in a less diverse field wasn’t easy. I focused on staying curious, understanding people, and building expertise that could stand on its own. Strong results became my way of demonstrating commitment while refining my communication skills allowing me to share ideas effectively and bring others along on the journey.
Role Models and Mentors were instrumental in helping me find my voice and confidence, encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone. I’m grateful for candid feedback from colleagues and leaders, which has continually shaped my growth.
On a personal level, my parents’ belief in my potential inspired me to dream without boundaries—a foundation I carry into my work. I am also lucky to have a partner like Gunjan and my daughters, Naveli and Nitya, who have supported me in every exploration.
Each experience has reinforced my belief in listening, mutual respect, and cultural awareness. I’ve learned that challenges bring clarity to what matters most: understanding each other, building trust, and collaborating to make an impact that uplifts everyone.
MR: What advice would you offer to those striving for personal and professional growth in today’s fast-paced world?
Manisha: Mindset is everything. Believe in yourself—when you carry that conviction, others are naturally drawn to it. Take the time to identify your values and live by them. Authenticity is powerful, and it starts with owning your story. Don’t fear trying, stumbling, or rising again. Clarity comes through action, not perfection.
Never stop growing. Find role models who inspire you to dream big and step outside your comfort zone. Seek mentors who can guide you through challenges and sponsors who advocate for you in rooms you haven’t yet entered. These relationships are invaluable for navigating your journey.
Invest in life skills that make a difference—especially communication, empathy, and curiosity. Curiosity is a catalyst for growth. Make time to read, explore, and engage with people who challenge your thinking. Surrounding yourself with diverse perspectives opens doors to new opportunities.
As you advance, remember to help others just starting their journey. Lifting others up is one of the most rewarding parts of personal growth.
Finally, prioritize your well-being. Protect the practices that keep you grounded—whether it’s hiking, yoga, meditation, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. In a world full of distractions, maintaining balance isn’t just essential; it’s a gift to yourself. Balance fuels resilience, and resilience paves the way for sustained success.
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