Episode 55

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Published on:

12th Feb 2026

Driving Decision Making and Impact at Scale with Kalindi Mehta

Empowering consumer centricity across all levels is critical in today's rapidly evolving business environment. Join Kalindi Mehta, Global VP, Head of Insights, The Estée Lauder Companies, as she sits down with host Jon Last, President of the Sports and Leisure Research Group, to discuss strategies for embedding consumer insights into decision-making processes. This episode dives deep into the significance of democratizing consumer-centric decisions, leveraging AI and technology, and fostering a culture of shared ownership within organizations. Learn how to navigate the complexities of influencing decisions without formal authority and ensuring insights translate to tangible business results.

00:00 Introduction to Business Language and Insights

00:24 Welcome to the Podcast

00:43 Guest Introduction: Kalindi Mehta

01:24 Driving Decision Making and Impact at Scale

02:30 The Evolution of Consumer-Centric Decisions

03:30 Empowering Decision Makers with Consumer Insights

06:16 Building Decision-Backed Systems

09:20 Influencing Decisions at Scale

15:15 The Role of Technology and AI

17:27 Defining Success in Insights

18:46 Organizational Structure and Insights

21:28 Cultural Shifts for Consumer-Centricity

22:49 Influencing Without Formal Authority

24:09 Aligning Teams Across Markets

25:48 Advice for Insights Professionals

28:56 Advice for Agencies and Partners

30:23 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

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About the Podcast

Insights & Innovators Podcast from MRII
Data and insights have become the required superpowers of growth companies. No matter what peak or trough the economy is in, business leaders need actionable insights to grow markets, engage customers, and make smart strategic decisions. And research professionals need skills and insights to grow their strategic seat at the table. MRII’s Insights & Innovators talks to today’s top experts and innovators to chart a path for the role, the research methods of tomorrow, and the growing importance of the researcher to business success.

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