A Daughter of Georgia: Tamar Gakharia on Courage, Leadership, and Legacy

In this powerful episode of The Authority Company podcast, Joe Pardavila sits down with Tamar Gakharia, author of The Blitz: A Georgian Daughter’s Rise as a CFO in the Post-Soviet Era. Tamar shares her extraordinary journey from growing up in the shadow of the Soviet Union’s collapse to becoming a top CFO in Georgia. She recounts the harrowing struggles her family endured—surviving without basic utilities, navigating war, and rebuilding their nation brick by brick. Tamar reflects on the profound influence of her grandfather Konstantine, who instilled in her resilience, creativity, and the courage to defy societal norms. She also opens up about her tumultuous marriage, the challenges of being a woman in finance, and how she carved her path in a male-dominated industry. Through it all, her love for Georgia and her dedication to her daughter shine as driving forces behind her success. This conversation is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the power of perseverance, and the importance of fighting for your dreams—no matter the obstacles. Tune in for an inspiring story of survival, leadership, and unwavering hope.

Tamar Gakharia is the Chief Financial Officer of CBS Group, one of the largest holding companies in the Republic of Georgia. Born during the collapse of the Soviet Union, Tamar grew up in a nation undergoing profound transformation. She graduated with honors from a local university and began her career at the Bank of Georgia, where she held numerous positions and honed her financial expertise. Her success at the bank led her to CBS Group, where she oversees the company’s diverse holdings in sectors such as finance, real estate, and energy. Tamar resides in Tbilisi with her two children.