#TransformationalLeader2019
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India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
Decision making is crucial to all dynamics that involved in the ecosystem. Over the years, I have come to realize that it takes a combination insight and foresight to make the right decisions.
The evolution to this philosophy has taken a few years though. When I started out as a young professional, like most others, I was only executing the decisions made by seniors. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that each cog in the wheel is an important aspect of decision making. An organization is only as good as its team. Gauging situations correctly and being able to think laterally are other important aspects that have helped me immensely in being prudent about the decisions I make today for myself and on behalf of my clients.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
The most significant accomplishment during my career was the launch of Piramal Sarvajal, seeded by the Piramal Foundation in 2008. It was a unique mission driven social enterprise that designs and deploys innovative solutions for creating affordable access to safe drinking water in underserved areas. Sarvajal is at the forefront of developing technologies and business practices in the safe drinking water sector that are designed to make a purely market-based model sustainable in both rural and urban deployment conditions. The mileage generated for the project not only garnered attention of policy makers but also corporates and apex bodies in India. It also had the privilege of being mentioned as the most promising initiative in a White House press release.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
We are an integrated communications agency and are actively involved in providing communications strategy and support to large corporate houses and Independent charitable funds. As part of our giveback to the community we undertake pro bono projects for NGOs involved in development of the underprivileged, on a regular basis.
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
‘Knowledge is Power’ is the philosophy that I believe in. Increasing one’s knowledge of just his/her own domain is simply not enough. Knowledge of one’s clients businesses, relevant sectors, geo-political conditions and overall global business trends are a must to stay competitive. Keeping to this philosophy, we at Krescendo strive to provide knowledge powered insightful business solutions to our clients and partners.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Some of the prominent works that we have undertaken are as follows:
Peace On Wheels – World’s first Mobile meditation van
Impact - This initiative came to my mind and was the result of close study of the stressful lives that millennials lead due to over digitization and increasing work pressures. With this noble concept of we took meditation to those who are stressed, right to their door step be it home or work. The initiative was launched in partnership with Jawaharlal Nehru Udyog Kendra in Pune, Maharashtra, India by the Commissioner of Women and Child Welfare and Development department
Wings Rainbow in partnership with Humsafar Trust- India’s First and only LGBT driven radio cab service
Impact - Post launch got an appreciation by The U.S. Consulate, Mumbai. Special invitee to attend a round table discussion on LGBT Issues in India along with EXIM Bank Chairman Fred Hochberg which was organized by U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai. The dignitaries present for the round table were Radhika Primal, MD, VIP Industries, Matt Beven, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Nisaba Godrej, Director, Godrej Industries and Pallav Patankar, Director, Humsafar Trust.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – Launch and free distribution of India’s first beetle flavored condoms for sex workers in Mumbai
Impact – Ground level connect with sex workers to understand their problems. Conducted AIDS awareness workshops and educated them on the repercussions of unsafe/unprotected sex.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success is a result that one sets out to achieve. According to me process is the key element that helps one keep checks and balances and ensures success in any sphere of life. A systematic approach to designing solutions is imperative to ensure and maintain a successful success rate. However, it is also very relative in nature. What may have seemed like success five years ago, maybe irrelevant today. Hence I reset my success metrics every year to ensure that I cover, knowledge, experiential growth along with business.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Tell me about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
Our entire proposition at Krescendo is about providing better, faster, smarter, cost effective solutions. Krescendo started out as a pure play Public Relations agency and within three years of inception moved on to become a wholly integrated communications company that provides reputation management, brand strategy, digital media solutions, advertising and production, content management services to name a few. We have now also moved on to providing strategic partnership consulting as well. This ensures that all communications are seamless and cost effective.
As the most recent testament to our evolution as a turnkey partner, we launched India’s most reputed online music learning school, Shankar Mahadevan Academy in Singapore. For this project we scouted for a local partner, brokered the alliance with Maharashtra Mandal Singapore and also designed and implemented communication campaigns to reach out to the entire ASIA market. Our carefully designed and implemented strategies witnessed a stellar response from ASIA and had the highest recall value during the launch and post launch phases. Enquiries grew manifold; student traction ratio increased thus making it a successful launch.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership qualities are tested the most during the time of a transition. Clarity of vision and dexterity of the strategy that goes into the decision making at such a crucial juncture, defines great leadership. In my opinion, the most significant aspect of leadership is the ability to understand flux, convert it into actionables and inspire your team to collaborate and produce winning results.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
An old adage makes a lot of sense here - “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him to fish and you feed him for life.” Empowerment of the society is the only way to building a strong and successful nation. Our industry has been an evangelist for empowering the society ever since inception. Apart from creating new job opportunities and being equal opportunity employers, we also are the information bearers for the society who empower them make better informed decisions in life.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
Paucity of skilled workforce is something I would like to see a change in. As our industry becomes more sophisticated, cross functional and global in nature, industry ready skills is the need of the hour. Mediocrity has no space here and I wish to see that change. Thoroughness in approach to solutions is a vibe that is auguring well for the industry and I wish we retain that and even better; take it a couple of notches higher.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Since the day I have become an entrepreneur I have let go of feeling the need to micromanage work.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I owe my success to Ajay Piramal and Swati Piramal of Piramal Enterprise for believing in me and making a difference in my life and also, my parents and family who believe in my dream and stand by me as pillars of strength.
Best thing about your job?
Best thing about my job is that it helps me be on track with what is happening around the world in real time. This profession has made me a smarter, better organized professional and gives ample opportunity to add true value to brands that impact us daily.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Entrepreneurship is a huge responsibility. It means that while you will create jobs and help the economy, you are equally responsible for the people who join you as they believe in your vision. There is no short cut to success. As entrepreneurs you might come across many challenging situations that seem overbearing. Self-belief and relentless pursuit of excellence will bring rewards for you and your partners. Be diligent.
Read the full article
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Text
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
Decision making is crucial to all dynamics that involved in the ecosystem. Over the years, I have come to realize that it takes a combination insight and foresight to make the right decisions.
The evolution to this philosophy has taken a few years though. When I started out as a young professional, like most others, I was only executing the decisions made by seniors. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that each cog in the wheel is an important aspect of decision making. An organization is only as good as its team. Gauging situations correctly and being able to think laterally are other important aspects that have helped me immensely in being prudent about the decisions I make today for myself and on behalf of my clients.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
The most significant accomplishment during my career was the launch of Piramal Sarvajal, seeded by the Piramal Foundation in 2008. It was a unique mission driven social enterprise that designs and deploys innovative solutions for creating affordable access to safe drinking water in underserved areas. Sarvajal is at the forefront of developing technologies and business practices in the safe drinking water sector that are designed to make a purely market-based model sustainable in both rural and urban deployment conditions. The mileage generated for the project not only garnered attention of policy makers but also corporates and apex bodies in India. It also had the privilege of being mentioned as the most promising initiative in a White House press release.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
We are an integrated communications agency and are actively involved in providing communications strategy and support to large corporate houses and Independent charitable funds. As part of our giveback to the community we undertake pro bono projects for NGOs involved in development of the underprivileged, on a regular basis.
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
‘Knowledge is Power’ is the philosophy that I believe in. Increasing one’s knowledge of just his/her own domain is simply not enough. Knowledge of one’s clients businesses, relevant sectors, geo-political conditions and overall global business trends are a must to stay competitive. Keeping to this philosophy, we at Krescendo strive to provide knowledge powered insightful business solutions to our clients and partners.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Some of the prominent works that we have undertaken are as follows:
Peace On Wheels – World’s first Mobile meditation van
Impact - This initiative came to my mind and was the result of close study of the stressful lives that millennials lead due to over digitization and increasing work pressures. With this noble concept of we took meditation to those who are stressed, right to their door step be it home or work. The initiative was launched in partnership with Jawaharlal Nehru Udyog Kendra in Pune, Maharashtra, India by the Commissioner of Women and Child Welfare and Development department
Wings Rainbow in partnership with Humsafar Trust- India’s First and only LGBT driven radio cab service
Impact - Post launch got an appreciation by The U.S. Consulate, Mumbai. Special invitee to attend a round table discussion on LGBT Issues in India along with EXIM Bank Chairman Fred Hochberg which was organized by U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai. The dignitaries present for the round table were Radhika Primal, MD, VIP Industries, Matt Beven, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Nisaba Godrej, Director, Godrej Industries and Pallav Patankar, Director, Humsafar Trust.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – Launch and free distribution of India’s first beetle flavored condoms for sex workers in Mumbai
Impact – Ground level connect with sex workers to understand their problems. Conducted AIDS awareness workshops and educated them on the repercussions of unsafe/unprotected sex.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success is a result that one sets out to achieve. According to me process is the key element that helps one keep checks and balances and ensures success in any sphere of life. A systematic approach to designing solutions is imperative to ensure and maintain a successful success rate. However, it is also very relative in nature. What may have seemed like success five years ago, maybe irrelevant today. Hence I reset my success metrics every year to ensure that I cover, knowledge, experiential growth along with business.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Tell me about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
Our entire proposition at Krescendo is about providing better, faster, smarter, cost effective solutions. Krescendo started out as a pure play Public Relations agency and within three years of inception moved on to become a wholly integrated communications company that provides reputation management, brand strategy, digital media solutions, advertising and production, content management services to name a few. We have now also moved on to providing strategic partnership consulting as well. This ensures that all communications are seamless and cost effective.
As the most recent testament to our evolution as a turnkey partner, we launched India’s most reputed online music learning school, Shankar Mahadevan Academy in Singapore. For this project we scouted for a local partner, brokered the alliance with Maharashtra Mandal Singapore and also designed and implemented communication campaigns to reach out to the entire ASIA market. Our carefully designed and implemented strategies witnessed a stellar response from ASIA and had the highest recall value during the launch and post launch phases. Enquiries grew manifold; student traction ratio increased thus making it a successful launch.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership qualities are tested the most during the time of a transition. Clarity of vision and dexterity of the strategy that goes into the decision making at such a crucial juncture, defines great leadership. In my opinion, the most significant aspect of leadership is the ability to understand flux, convert it into actionables and inspire your team to collaborate and produce winning results.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
An old adage makes a lot of sense here - “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him to fish and you feed him for life.” Empowerment of the society is the only way to building a strong and successful nation. Our industry has been an evangelist for empowering the society ever since inception. Apart from creating new job opportunities and being equal opportunity employers, we also are the information bearers for the society who empower them make better informed decisions in life.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
Paucity of skilled workforce is something I would like to see a change in. As our industry becomes more sophisticated, cross functional and global in nature, industry ready skills is the need of the hour. Mediocrity has no space here and I wish to see that change. Thoroughness in approach to solutions is a vibe that is auguring well for the industry and I wish we retain that and even better; take it a couple of notches higher.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Since the day I have become an entrepreneur I have let go of feeling the need to micromanage work.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I owe my success to Ajay Piramal and Swati Piramal of Piramal Enterprise for believing in me and making a difference in my life and also, my parents and family who believe in my dream and stand by me as pillars of strength.
Best thing about your job?
Best thing about my job is that it helps me be on track with what is happening around the world in real time. This profession has made me a smarter, better organized professional and gives ample opportunity to add true value to brands that impact us daily.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Entrepreneurship is a huge responsibility. It means that while you will create jobs and help the economy, you are equally responsible for the people who join you as they believe in your vision. There is no short cut to success. As entrepreneurs you might come across many challenging situations that seem overbearing. Self-belief and relentless pursuit of excellence will bring rewards for you and your partners. Be diligent.
Read the full article
0 notes
Text
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
Decision making is crucial to all dynamics that involved in the ecosystem. Over the years, I have come to realize that it takes a combination insight and foresight to make the right decisions.
The evolution to this philosophy has taken a few years though. When I started out as a young professional, like most others, I was only executing the decisions made by seniors. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that each cog in the wheel is an important aspect of decision making. An organization is only as good as its team. Gauging situations correctly and being able to think laterally are other important aspects that have helped me immensely in being prudent about the decisions I make today for myself and on behalf of my clients.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
The most significant accomplishment during my career was the launch of Piramal Sarvajal, seeded by the Piramal Foundation in 2008. It was a unique mission driven social enterprise that designs and deploys innovative solutions for creating affordable access to safe drinking water in underserved areas. Sarvajal is at the forefront of developing technologies and business practices in the safe drinking water sector that are designed to make a purely market-based model sustainable in both rural and urban deployment conditions. The mileage generated for the project not only garnered attention of policy makers but also corporates and apex bodies in India. It also had the privilege of being mentioned as the most promising initiative in a White House press release.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
We are an integrated communications agency and are actively involved in providing communications strategy and support to large corporate houses and Independent charitable funds. As part of our giveback to the community we undertake pro bono projects for NGOs involved in development of the underprivileged, on a regular basis.
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
‘Knowledge is Power’ is the philosophy that I believe in. Increasing one’s knowledge of just his/her own domain is simply not enough. Knowledge of one’s clients businesses, relevant sectors, geo-political conditions and overall global business trends are a must to stay competitive. Keeping to this philosophy, we at Krescendo strive to provide knowledge powered insightful business solutions to our clients and partners.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Some of the prominent works that we have undertaken are as follows:
Peace On Wheels – World’s first Mobile meditation van
Impact - This initiative came to my mind and was the result of close study of the stressful lives that millennials lead due to over digitization and increasing work pressures. With this noble concept of we took meditation to those who are stressed, right to their door step be it home or work. The initiative was launched in partnership with Jawaharlal Nehru Udyog Kendra in Pune, Maharashtra, India by the Commissioner of Women and Child Welfare and Development department
Wings Rainbow in partnership with Humsafar Trust- India’s First and only LGBT driven radio cab service
Impact - Post launch got an appreciation by The U.S. Consulate, Mumbai. Special invitee to attend a round table discussion on LGBT Issues in India along with EXIM Bank Chairman Fred Hochberg which was organized by U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai. The dignitaries present for the round table were Radhika Primal, MD, VIP Industries, Matt Beven, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Nisaba Godrej, Director, Godrej Industries and Pallav Patankar, Director, Humsafar Trust.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – Launch and free distribution of India’s first beetle flavored condoms for sex workers in Mumbai
Impact – Ground level connect with sex workers to understand their problems. Conducted AIDS awareness workshops and educated them on the repercussions of unsafe/unprotected sex.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success is a result that one sets out to achieve. According to me process is the key element that helps one keep checks and balances and ensures success in any sphere of life. A systematic approach to designing solutions is imperative to ensure and maintain a successful success rate. However, it is also very relative in nature. What may have seemed like success five years ago, maybe irrelevant today. Hence I reset my success metrics every year to ensure that I cover, knowledge, experiential growth along with business.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Tell me about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
Our entire proposition at Krescendo is about providing better, faster, smarter, cost effective solutions. Krescendo started out as a pure play Public Relations agency and within three years of inception moved on to become a wholly integrated communications company that provides reputation management, brand strategy, digital media solutions, advertising and production, content management services to name a few. We have now also moved on to providing strategic partnership consulting as well. This ensures that all communications are seamless and cost effective.
As the most recent testament to our evolution as a turnkey partner, we launched India’s most reputed online music learning school, Shankar Mahadevan Academy in Singapore. For this project we scouted for a local partner, brokered the alliance with Maharashtra Mandal Singapore and also designed and implemented communication campaigns to reach out to the entire ASIA market. Our carefully designed and implemented strategies witnessed a stellar response from ASIA and had the highest recall value during the launch and post launch phases. Enquiries grew manifold; student traction ratio increased thus making it a successful launch.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership qualities are tested the most during the time of a transition. Clarity of vision and dexterity of the strategy that goes into the decision making at such a crucial juncture, defines great leadership. In my opinion, the most significant aspect of leadership is the ability to understand flux, convert it into actionables and inspire your team to collaborate and produce winning results.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
An old adage makes a lot of sense here - “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him to fish and you feed him for life.” Empowerment of the society is the only way to building a strong and successful nation. Our industry has been an evangelist for empowering the society ever since inception. Apart from creating new job opportunities and being equal opportunity employers, we also are the information bearers for the society who empower them make better informed decisions in life.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
Paucity of skilled workforce is something I would like to see a change in. As our industry becomes more sophisticated, cross functional and global in nature, industry ready skills is the need of the hour. Mediocrity has no space here and I wish to see that change. Thoroughness in approach to solutions is a vibe that is auguring well for the industry and I wish we retain that and even better; take it a couple of notches higher.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Since the day I have become an entrepreneur I have let go of feeling the need to micromanage work.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I owe my success to Ajay Piramal and Swati Piramal of Piramal Enterprise for believing in me and making a difference in my life and also, my parents and family who believe in my dream and stand by me as pillars of strength.
Best thing about your job?
Best thing about my job is that it helps me be on track with what is happening around the world in real time. This profession has made me a smarter, better organized professional and gives ample opportunity to add true value to brands that impact us daily.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Entrepreneurship is a huge responsibility. It means that while you will create jobs and help the economy, you are equally responsible for the people who join you as they believe in your vision. There is no short cut to success. As entrepreneurs you might come across many challenging situations that seem overbearing. Self-belief and relentless pursuit of excellence will bring rewards for you and your partners. Be diligent.
Read the full article
0 notes
Text
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
Decision making is crucial to all dynamics that involved in the ecosystem. Over the years, I have come to realize that it takes a combination insight and foresight to make the right decisions.
The evolution to this philosophy has taken a few years though. When I started out as a young professional, like most others, I was only executing the decisions made by seniors. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that each cog in the wheel is an important aspect of decision making. An organization is only as good as its team. Gauging situations correctly and being able to think laterally are other important aspects that have helped me immensely in being prudent about the decisions I make today for myself and on behalf of my clients.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
The most significant accomplishment during my career was the launch of Piramal Sarvajal, seeded by the Piramal Foundation in 2008. It was a unique mission driven social enterprise that designs and deploys innovative solutions for creating affordable access to safe drinking water in underserved areas. Sarvajal is at the forefront of developing technologies and business practices in the safe drinking water sector that are designed to make a purely market-based model sustainable in both rural and urban deployment conditions. The mileage generated for the project not only garnered attention of policy makers but also corporates and apex bodies in India. It also had the privilege of being mentioned as the most promising initiative in a White House press release.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
We are an integrated communications agency and are actively involved in providing communications strategy and support to large corporate houses and Independent charitable funds. As part of our giveback to the community we undertake pro bono projects for NGOs involved in development of the underprivileged, on a regular basis.
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
‘Knowledge is Power’ is the philosophy that I believe in. Increasing one’s knowledge of just his/her own domain is simply not enough. Knowledge of one’s clients businesses, relevant sectors, geo-political conditions and overall global business trends are a must to stay competitive. Keeping to this philosophy, we at Krescendo strive to provide knowledge powered insightful business solutions to our clients and partners.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Some of the prominent works that we have undertaken are as follows:
Peace On Wheels – World’s first Mobile meditation van
Impact - This initiative came to my mind and was the result of close study of the stressful lives that millennials lead due to over digitization and increasing work pressures. With this noble concept of we took meditation to those who are stressed, right to their door step be it home or work. The initiative was launched in partnership with Jawaharlal Nehru Udyog Kendra in Pune, Maharashtra, India by the Commissioner of Women and Child Welfare and Development department
Wings Rainbow in partnership with Humsafar Trust- India’s First and only LGBT driven radio cab service
Impact - Post launch got an appreciation by The U.S. Consulate, Mumbai. Special invitee to attend a round table discussion on LGBT Issues in India along with EXIM Bank Chairman Fred Hochberg which was organized by U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai. The dignitaries present for the round table were Radhika Primal, MD, VIP Industries, Matt Beven, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Nisaba Godrej, Director, Godrej Industries and Pallav Patankar, Director, Humsafar Trust.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – Launch and free distribution of India’s first beetle flavored condoms for sex workers in Mumbai
Impact – Ground level connect with sex workers to understand their problems. Conducted AIDS awareness workshops and educated them on the repercussions of unsafe/unprotected sex.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success is a result that one sets out to achieve. According to me process is the key element that helps one keep checks and balances and ensures success in any sphere of life. A systematic approach to designing solutions is imperative to ensure and maintain a successful success rate. However, it is also very relative in nature. What may have seemed like success five years ago, maybe irrelevant today. Hence I reset my success metrics every year to ensure that I cover, knowledge, experiential growth along with business.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Tell me about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
Our entire proposition at Krescendo is about providing better, faster, smarter, cost effective solutions. Krescendo started out as a pure play Public Relations agency and within three years of inception moved on to become a wholly integrated communications company that provides reputation management, brand strategy, digital media solutions, advertising and production, content management services to name a few. We have now also moved on to providing strategic partnership consulting as well. This ensures that all communications are seamless and cost effective.
As the most recent testament to our evolution as a turnkey partner, we launched India’s most reputed online music learning school, Shankar Mahadevan Academy in Singapore. For this project we scouted for a local partner, brokered the alliance with Maharashtra Mandal Singapore and also designed and implemented communication campaigns to reach out to the entire ASIA market. Our carefully designed and implemented strategies witnessed a stellar response from ASIA and had the highest recall value during the launch and post launch phases. Enquiries grew manifold; student traction ratio increased thus making it a successful launch.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership qualities are tested the most during the time of a transition. Clarity of vision and dexterity of the strategy that goes into the decision making at such a crucial juncture, defines great leadership. In my opinion, the most significant aspect of leadership is the ability to understand flux, convert it into actionables and inspire your team to collaborate and produce winning results.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
An old adage makes a lot of sense here - “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him to fish and you feed him for life.” Empowerment of the society is the only way to building a strong and successful nation. Our industry has been an evangelist for empowering the society ever since inception. Apart from creating new job opportunities and being equal opportunity employers, we also are the information bearers for the society who empower them make better informed decisions in life.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
Paucity of skilled workforce is something I would like to see a change in. As our industry becomes more sophisticated, cross functional and global in nature, industry ready skills is the need of the hour. Mediocrity has no space here and I wish to see that change. Thoroughness in approach to solutions is a vibe that is auguring well for the industry and I wish we retain that and even better; take it a couple of notches higher.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Since the day I have become an entrepreneur I have let go of feeling the need to micromanage work.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I owe my success to Ajay Piramal and Swati Piramal of Piramal Enterprise for believing in me and making a difference in my life and also, my parents and family who believe in my dream and stand by me as pillars of strength.
Best thing about your job?
Best thing about my job is that it helps me be on track with what is happening around the world in real time. This profession has made me a smarter, better organized professional and gives ample opportunity to add true value to brands that impact us daily.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Entrepreneurship is a huge responsibility. It means that while you will create jobs and help the economy, you are equally responsible for the people who join you as they believe in your vision. There is no short cut to success. As entrepreneurs you might come across many challenging situations that seem overbearing. Self-belief and relentless pursuit of excellence will bring rewards for you and your partners. Be diligent.
Read the full article
0 notes
Text
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
Decision making is crucial to all dynamics that involved in the ecosystem. Over the years, I have come to realize that it takes a combination insight and foresight to make the right decisions.
The evolution to this philosophy has taken a few years though. When I started out as a young professional, like most others, I was only executing the decisions made by seniors. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that each cog in the wheel is an important aspect of decision making. An organization is only as good as its team. Gauging situations correctly and being able to think laterally are other important aspects that have helped me immensely in being prudent about the decisions I make today for myself and on behalf of my clients.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
The most significant accomplishment during my career was the launch of Piramal Sarvajal, seeded by the Piramal Foundation in 2008. It was a unique mission driven social enterprise that designs and deploys innovative solutions for creating affordable access to safe drinking water in underserved areas. Sarvajal is at the forefront of developing technologies and business practices in the safe drinking water sector that are designed to make a purely market-based model sustainable in both rural and urban deployment conditions. The mileage generated for the project not only garnered attention of policy makers but also corporates and apex bodies in India. It also had the privilege of being mentioned as the most promising initiative in a White House press release.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
We are an integrated communications agency and are actively involved in providing communications strategy and support to large corporate houses and Independent charitable funds. As part of our giveback to the community we undertake pro bono projects for NGOs involved in development of the underprivileged, on a regular basis.
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
‘Knowledge is Power’ is the philosophy that I believe in. Increasing one’s knowledge of just his/her own domain is simply not enough. Knowledge of one’s clients businesses, relevant sectors, geo-political conditions and overall global business trends are a must to stay competitive. Keeping to this philosophy, we at Krescendo strive to provide knowledge powered insightful business solutions to our clients and partners.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Some of the prominent works that we have undertaken are as follows:
Peace On Wheels – World’s first Mobile meditation van
Impact - This initiative came to my mind and was the result of close study of the stressful lives that millennials lead due to over digitization and increasing work pressures. With this noble concept of we took meditation to those who are stressed, right to their door step be it home or work. The initiative was launched in partnership with Jawaharlal Nehru Udyog Kendra in Pune, Maharashtra, India by the Commissioner of Women and Child Welfare and Development department
Wings Rainbow in partnership with Humsafar Trust- India’s First and only LGBT driven radio cab service
Impact - Post launch got an appreciation by The U.S. Consulate, Mumbai. Special invitee to attend a round table discussion on LGBT Issues in India along with EXIM Bank Chairman Fred Hochberg which was organized by U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai. The dignitaries present for the round table were Radhika Primal, MD, VIP Industries, Matt Beven, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Nisaba Godrej, Director, Godrej Industries and Pallav Patankar, Director, Humsafar Trust.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – Launch and free distribution of India’s first beetle flavored condoms for sex workers in Mumbai
Impact – Ground level connect with sex workers to understand their problems. Conducted AIDS awareness workshops and educated them on the repercussions of unsafe/unprotected sex.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success is a result that one sets out to achieve. According to me process is the key element that helps one keep checks and balances and ensures success in any sphere of life. A systematic approach to designing solutions is imperative to ensure and maintain a successful success rate. However, it is also very relative in nature. What may have seemed like success five years ago, maybe irrelevant today. Hence I reset my success metrics every year to ensure that I cover, knowledge, experiential growth along with business.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Tell me about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
Our entire proposition at Krescendo is about providing better, faster, smarter, cost effective solutions. Krescendo started out as a pure play Public Relations agency and within three years of inception moved on to become a wholly integrated communications company that provides reputation management, brand strategy, digital media solutions, advertising and production, content management services to name a few. We have now also moved on to providing strategic partnership consulting as well. This ensures that all communications are seamless and cost effective.
As the most recent testament to our evolution as a turnkey partner, we launched India’s most reputed online music learning school, Shankar Mahadevan Academy in Singapore. For this project we scouted for a local partner, brokered the alliance with Maharashtra Mandal Singapore and also designed and implemented communication campaigns to reach out to the entire ASIA market. Our carefully designed and implemented strategies witnessed a stellar response from ASIA and had the highest recall value during the launch and post launch phases. Enquiries grew manifold; student traction ratio increased thus making it a successful launch.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership qualities are tested the most during the time of a transition. Clarity of vision and dexterity of the strategy that goes into the decision making at such a crucial juncture, defines great leadership. In my opinion, the most significant aspect of leadership is the ability to understand flux, convert it into actionables and inspire your team to collaborate and produce winning results.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
An old adage makes a lot of sense here - “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him to fish and you feed him for life.” Empowerment of the society is the only way to building a strong and successful nation. Our industry has been an evangelist for empowering the society ever since inception. Apart from creating new job opportunities and being equal opportunity employers, we also are the information bearers for the society who empower them make better informed decisions in life.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
Paucity of skilled workforce is something I would like to see a change in. As our industry becomes more sophisticated, cross functional and global in nature, industry ready skills is the need of the hour. Mediocrity has no space here and I wish to see that change. Thoroughness in approach to solutions is a vibe that is auguring well for the industry and I wish we retain that and even better; take it a couple of notches higher.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Since the day I have become an entrepreneur I have let go of feeling the need to micromanage work.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I owe my success to Ajay Piramal and Swati Piramal of Piramal Enterprise for believing in me and making a difference in my life and also, my parents and family who believe in my dream and stand by me as pillars of strength.
Best thing about your job?
Best thing about my job is that it helps me be on track with what is happening around the world in real time. This profession has made me a smarter, better organized professional and gives ample opportunity to add true value to brands that impact us daily.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Entrepreneurship is a huge responsibility. It means that while you will create jobs and help the economy, you are equally responsible for the people who join you as they believe in your vision. There is no short cut to success. As entrepreneurs you might come across many challenging situations that seem overbearing. Self-belief and relentless pursuit of excellence will bring rewards for you and your partners. Be diligent.
Read the full article
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India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Krescendo Communications
Decision making is crucial to all dynamics that involved in the ecosystem. Over the years, I have come to realize that it takes a combination insight and foresight to make the right decisions.
The evolution to this philosophy has taken a few years though. When I started out as a young professional, like most others, I was only executing the decisions made by seniors. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that each cog in the wheel is an important aspect of decision making. An organization is only as good as its team. Gauging situations correctly and being able to think laterally are other important aspects that have helped me immensely in being prudent about the decisions I make today for myself and on behalf of my clients.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
The most significant accomplishment during my career was the launch of Piramal Sarvajal, seeded by the Piramal Foundation in 2008. It was a unique mission driven social enterprise that designs and deploys innovative solutions for creating affordable access to safe drinking water in underserved areas. Sarvajal is at the forefront of developing technologies and business practices in the safe drinking water sector that are designed to make a purely market-based model sustainable in both rural and urban deployment conditions. The mileage generated for the project not only garnered attention of policy makers but also corporates and apex bodies in India. It also had the privilege of being mentioned as the most promising initiative in a White House press release.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
We are an integrated communications agency and are actively involved in providing communications strategy and support to large corporate houses and Independent charitable funds. As part of our giveback to the community we undertake pro bono projects for NGOs involved in development of the underprivileged, on a regular basis.
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
‘Knowledge is Power’ is the philosophy that I believe in. Increasing one’s knowledge of just his/her own domain is simply not enough. Knowledge of one’s clients businesses, relevant sectors, geo-political conditions and overall global business trends are a must to stay competitive. Keeping to this philosophy, we at Krescendo strive to provide knowledge powered insightful business solutions to our clients and partners.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Some of the prominent works that we have undertaken are as follows:
Peace On Wheels – World’s first Mobile meditation van
Impact - This initiative came to my mind and was the result of close study of the stressful lives that millennials lead due to over digitization and increasing work pressures. With this noble concept of we took meditation to those who are stressed, right to their door step be it home or work. The initiative was launched in partnership with Jawaharlal Nehru Udyog Kendra in Pune, Maharashtra, India by the Commissioner of Women and Child Welfare and Development department
Wings Rainbow in partnership with Humsafar Trust- India’s First and only LGBT driven radio cab service
Impact - Post launch got an appreciation by The U.S. Consulate, Mumbai. Special invitee to attend a round table discussion on LGBT Issues in India along with EXIM Bank Chairman Fred Hochberg which was organized by U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai. The dignitaries present for the round table were Radhika Primal, MD, VIP Industries, Matt Beven, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Nisaba Godrej, Director, Godrej Industries and Pallav Patankar, Director, Humsafar Trust.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – Launch and free distribution of India’s first beetle flavored condoms for sex workers in Mumbai
Impact – Ground level connect with sex workers to understand their problems. Conducted AIDS awareness workshops and educated them on the repercussions of unsafe/unprotected sex.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success is a result that one sets out to achieve. According to me process is the key element that helps one keep checks and balances and ensures success in any sphere of life. A systematic approach to designing solutions is imperative to ensure and maintain a successful success rate. However, it is also very relative in nature. What may have seemed like success five years ago, maybe irrelevant today. Hence I reset my success metrics every year to ensure that I cover, knowledge, experiential growth along with business.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Tell me about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
Our entire proposition at Krescendo is about providing better, faster, smarter, cost effective solutions. Krescendo started out as a pure play Public Relations agency and within three years of inception moved on to become a wholly integrated communications company that provides reputation management, brand strategy, digital media solutions, advertising and production, content management services to name a few. We have now also moved on to providing strategic partnership consulting as well. This ensures that all communications are seamless and cost effective.
As the most recent testament to our evolution as a turnkey partner, we launched India’s most reputed online music learning school, Shankar Mahadevan Academy in Singapore. For this project we scouted for a local partner, brokered the alliance with Maharashtra Mandal Singapore and also designed and implemented communication campaigns to reach out to the entire ASIA market. Our carefully designed and implemented strategies witnessed a stellar response from ASIA and had the highest recall value during the launch and post launch phases. Enquiries grew manifold; student traction ratio increased thus making it a successful launch.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership qualities are tested the most during the time of a transition. Clarity of vision and dexterity of the strategy that goes into the decision making at such a crucial juncture, defines great leadership. In my opinion, the most significant aspect of leadership is the ability to understand flux, convert it into actionables and inspire your team to collaborate and produce winning results.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
An old adage makes a lot of sense here - “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him to fish and you feed him for life.” Empowerment of the society is the only way to building a strong and successful nation. Our industry has been an evangelist for empowering the society ever since inception. Apart from creating new job opportunities and being equal opportunity employers, we also are the information bearers for the society who empower them make better informed decisions in life.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
Paucity of skilled workforce is something I would like to see a change in. As our industry becomes more sophisticated, cross functional and global in nature, industry ready skills is the need of the hour. Mediocrity has no space here and I wish to see that change. Thoroughness in approach to solutions is a vibe that is auguring well for the industry and I wish we retain that and even better; take it a couple of notches higher.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Since the day I have become an entrepreneur I have let go of feeling the need to micromanage work.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I owe my success to Ajay Piramal and Swati Piramal of Piramal Enterprise for believing in me and making a difference in my life and also, my parents and family who believe in my dream and stand by me as pillars of strength.
Best thing about your job?
Best thing about my job is that it helps me be on track with what is happening around the world in real time. This profession has made me a smarter, better organized professional and gives ample opportunity to add true value to brands that impact us daily.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Entrepreneurship is a huge responsibility. It means that while you will create jobs and help the economy, you are equally responsible for the people who join you as they believe in your vision. There is no short cut to success. As entrepreneurs you might come across many challenging situations that seem overbearing. Self-belief and relentless pursuit of excellence will bring rewards for you and your partners. Be diligent.
Read the full article
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Text
Bhaskar N Raju, Divyasree - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Bhaskar N Raju, Divyasree - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Interview: Bhaskar N Raju, Managing Director Divyasree
Years of working in the industry, your contribution reflects versatility and volubility. What has influenced your decision making process at various stages?
The ever-present need to push the envelope; to develop better, smarter and greener; to stay relevant; this I feel is the single most important driver for us at DivyaSree, and for the industry as a whole.
This necessity has influenced industry trends and certainly acted as a catalyst in our journey of growth, steering the company to do things differently than others; to pursue innovation; to selectively seize opportunities; to decide to expand our footprint across the southern markets of the country. The informed demand of clients familiar with international standards has also influenced our decision-making and methodology – we’ve introduced futuristic concepts throughout our process, from designs concepts to materials to execution to delivery and beyond, so as to make the spaces we develop more focused on user experience and delight.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
To single out a particular step in an eventful journey would be difficult, since every day at DivyaSree has been truly memorable. I would however make special mention of the following: Our first foray into the development space itself; our very successful drive towards multi-city, multi-asset growth; our ventures into the international SEZ space as a pioneer; our collaboration with governments; the lead we took on developing our much-sought-after townships; and most of all the singular and enduring partnerships we have built and sustained with several multi-location corporate clients. In fact, DivyaSree has achieved 99% occupancy across its portfolio which caters to over 150,000 employees, including 8 Fortune500 companies, and over 65 Blue Chip clients!
Bhaskar N Raju Managing Director Divyashree Builders
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
Our CSR Policy is designed to take social/ economic responsibility for the welfare and sustainable development of communities in and around DivyaSree’s areas of operation, and it meets need-based requirements in other parts of the country. We are also conscientious about the environment in which we and our stakeholders live, work and play, and it is no wonder that we have been the recipient of several LEED certifications from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). We intentionally focus on the environmental side in our CSR activities, considering it a sacred obligation to preserve and conserve for the future. This is evidenced by our advocacy of sustainability measures like flexible heating and cooling solutions, monitoring and regulation of power consumption, deployment of energy-efficient electrical appliances and sanitation fixtures, and several other ways to conserve and efficiently use natural resources.
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
For me it has been very simple: Always move forward and upward, keep learning, and never ever give up.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Would not prefer to elaborate, but there are several projects that are close to my heart that I offer my resources of time, talent and treasure to help make life better for others. The environment is also something thing that I endeavor to support through CSR activities, while responding to requirements as and when called upon to do so. I consider it a sacred obligation to preserve and conserve for the future.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success is when you are more relevant to your customer than the competition, and thus attract accolades both as a leader and as an organisation. I’d like to allow a few of our clients to speak here:
"Your professionalism and customer-centric obsession has truly distinguished DivyaSree Group.” - Juggy Marwaha, Jones Lang LaSalle
"Your team has helped create immense value for clients and establish lasting partnerships.” - Ram Chandnani, CBRE India
“The involvement of the entire management team in ensuring end-to-end support is truly commendable.” - N. Krishnaswamy, EYGBS (India)
"DivyaSree became the obvious choice for us with their willingness to support our unique needs, and a never-say-no attitude.” - Venkatramana B, Landmark Group
Talk about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
As property developers, we are acutely aware of the changing needs of an evolving economy and ecosystem, and we evolve by incorporating customer feedback, suggestions and even vision. ‘Doing more with less’ is not simply applicable to a single project or solution; it must become part of corporate policy. So we continually explore avenues to harness exciting technological advancements to create automation, resource management and other systems that enhance cost effectiveness, comfort, quality and sustainability. There are and will continue to be advancements in technology, so to embed excellence into each of our successive projects, we stay ahead of the curve by adopting new technologies, adapting them to suit, and incorporating them. Innovation being in our DNA, we welcome such breakthroughs as aids to achieving our vision: That of delivering world-class spaces that are not just functional and cost-effective, but also intelligent, disruptive and experiential.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leading by example, not just for a time, but all the time.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/ can contribute for the same?
An empowered society is healthy, happy and above all, sustainable. Our industry is seeing a move away from the beaten path, towards more environmentally sound practices. Sustainability has become the focus globally, not only for the real estate industry but also for its customers. Hence, there is an increased need to embed sustainability throughout the development process, right from the design stage to the construction stage, and even through service and maintenance stages.
For example, design decisions (like optimizing air flow and natural lighting to minimize electricity consumption) influence the sustainability performance of the construction, operation and maintenance phases. Designing of room size considering tile size can reduce the number of tiles wasted in construction. This is value engineering at relatively lower costs, at the design stage itself. Similarly, the contracting, planning, construction and control phases can be addressed to ensure sustainability, and this has a greater impact on the finished project, resulting in long-lasting benefits for all stakeholders.
Many of DivyaSree’s developments have been awarded the coveted LEED India Gold and Silver ratings, further endorsing our belief that sustainability not only makes our developments more efficient and economical, but is also in the best interests of our customers and the environment. Small steps that can, if adopted across the industry, make a sizeable difference to the big picture of societal empowerment.
Bhaskar N Raju Managing Director Divyashree Builders
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
The industry is on the right track, I feel, with its drive towards cleaner and greener methods. I would like to see more emphasis on and initiatives towards housing for all/ affordable housing.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I have received life lessons from many people and situations. It would be inappropriate to attribute my professional success to one (or a few) of these. I believe that I have learned the most from mentors through my career.
Best thing about your job?
At DivyaSree, we do it all; all day, every day. And there is always something new to learn, to experience, to create, to develop. The excitement never stops, and the satisfaction of exceeding expectations never fails to uplift.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/ leaders?
Stay relevant to your customers. Stay attentive to their requirements. Stay focused on your goals.
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Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Every day we are inundated with decisions, big and small. Several factors like past experiences, age, cognitive biases and observations influence the decision making process.
Initially, we are all swayed by others but eventually, our experiences gain us the wisdom. Our learning and experiences gradually change and facilitate our decisiveness be it while making internal policies or product guidelines. I think there is no standard formula for making decisions. Apparently, it’s all situational.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
Born and brought up in a successful business family had me occupied in the industry from a tender age. Manoeuvring my work experience from our plant, studying about the industry and the recent trends instilled in me the fire to do something of my own. Co-working industry was booming back in 2015 and having a keen interest in commercial real-estate, I decided to launch One Co.Work. Seeing my own venture growing successfully motivated me to launch a new property. With God’s grace, in just 3 years, One Co.Work is in 5 cities with profit-generating centres simultaneously growing our steel business by 300%. This phase holds a high magnitude in my career.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
CSR is an ethical framework suggesting that an entity has a direct obligation towards the society. At Bindal Group, we firmly believe in giving back to the society. Since a healthy diet should be accessible to everyone, we provide with the best quality food to all our 5000 collaborates for free, every day! In view of the fact that education enhances the quality of life, we encourage our employees to take part in initiatives like “Teach For India”. To increase the availability of clean water to the locals, we consistently place hand pumps in the surrounding areas. Organising free health camps for the natives, arranging community marriage ceremonies and providing shelter to thousands of non-milking and abandoned cattle is our bit towards social responsibility. In addition to it, we aid budding entrepreneurs with financial assistance and industry specific knowledge.
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
Since childhood, my fervour was towards entrepreneurship and I had many thrilling ideas to execute. Quoting an interesting event from my early teenage, I used to flip and trade old cars by revamping them with small investment and then selling at profit. My passion to be an entrepreneur has always driven me to plan, strategize and analyze the dynamic scenarios around.
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
I have seen my father involving himself in humanitarian activities since forever. His inclination towards philanthropic work and social initiatives has instilled the same emotion in me. Since I’ve been raised with the same compassion towards the society, I ensure that my venture too has tie-ups with various NGOs to build a better living. Empathy comes to me naturally and I also try to inculcate the same in my team and everyone associated with me. The philanthropic activities have to be part of our annual marketing plan and we have a separate budget for it not to merely brand ourselves but because that’s how it’s been over the years.
How do you define success and how do you measure up your own definition?
Success, to me, has no definition. I believe it is related to personal satisfaction. It will always be different for different people. Person X might do something and feel satisfied and accomplished but the person Y might do something better and is still dissatisfied. For the outside world you are successful but for yourself, you are still striving and improving every day. No metric can measure it. Also, once u label yourself, you limit yourself and I don’t believe in setting any limit.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Talk about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
At our steel manufacturing units, the continuous cast billets were produced at a temperature of 1000-1100 degrees, cooled down, cut into smaller size and then again reheated at the same temperature. While observing this process several times, I suggested my technical staff to directly roll the billets after first heating. The results were amazing and turned out that the idea had the potential to save time and cost. This process was soon followed by every other player which is saving around $200 Mn across the industry every year.
Recently, our venture One Co.Work (co-working industry) was launched as one of the first few players in the co-working industry. Also, being a shared office space provider at One Co.Work we already have been offering workspaces that are better (than working in traditional offices), faster (as plug & play), smarter (with all the services in the same place) and cost effective (compared to conventional spaces).
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership is the art of managing a team and inspiring them to put their best forward. It’s always about ‘taking people along’. A leader doesn’t command but rather guides. It’s not just about the delegation of work but the team efforts to successfully achieve the common goal. I believe that an employee always longs for two things: acknowledgement and appreciation. This is what drives them and the organisation as a whole. I personally leave no stone unturned to recognise my team’s value.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
My perception of an empowered society is where people lift each other and thrive together. When people on a success journey take other people along, it makes the world a better place. At our steel plant we employ more than 5000 people, 70% of whom are from the local areas. We understand that it’s our responsibility to give opportunities to the local people so that they can make a good living. Concurrently, through our co-working venture we’re helping every entrepreneur with apt services within their means. In our supply chain, we persistently empower the budding entrepreneurs by providing them industry specific information and funds.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing wish to retain about the industry?
We need to be dynamic to survive and change is for good. The steel manufacturing industry has always been male dominated. Giving employment opportunities and providing equal chances to women is the change I would like to bring in this industry. Not just this would be an act of women empowerment but their ideas in the industry, like any other, would add to the potential of the business.
The steel industry is always open to research & development, new ideas and innovation. We always try to innovate to come up with efficient products. This practice in particular should stay in the industry.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Anyone can be an entrepreneur but not everyone can be a good leader. History proves that ego is always destructive. I advise all the existing and future entrepreneurs to stay humble and grounded. Be approachable to your team and welcome the ideas and suggestions by them. At the end it’s all about knowledge sharing; we all learn from each other.
Whom do you owe your success to?
Undoubtedly, I owe my success to my parents and my family for backing me. My father has always been my inspiration for how active, dedicated & passionate he’s been for his work. I thank my parents for passing the same values to me and teaching me that work is worship. I’m equally thankful to my employees, mentors, seniors and colleagues to being therein every thick and thin.
Best thing about your job?
Every person you meet teaches you something and vice versa. The best part of my job is building meaningful network. The more we know, the more we grow ‘together’. Not just connecting but exchanging opportunities where one gets a good resource and the other gets desirable employment.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Youth is the future of our country. My message, rather an advice to all the future entrepreneurs is to be passionate, keep scouting for opportunities, harness teamwork, seek inspiration and never give up. If you wish to win bigger battles, first win your people’s heart. Put your honest efforts and stay committed. Long live entrepreneurship!
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Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Every day we are inundated with decisions, big and small. Several factors like past experiences, age, cognitive biases and observations influence the decision making process.
Initially, we are all swayed by others but eventually, our experiences gain us the wisdom. Our learning and experiences gradually change and facilitate our decisiveness be it while making internal policies or product guidelines. I think there is no standard formula for making decisions. Apparently, it’s all situational.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
Born and brought up in a successful business family had me occupied in the industry from a tender age. Manoeuvring my work experience from our plant, studying about the industry and the recent trends instilled in me the fire to do something of my own. Co-working industry was booming back in 2015 and having a keen interest in commercial real-estate, I decided to launch One Co.Work. Seeing my own venture growing successfully motivated me to launch a new property. With God’s grace, in just 3 years, One Co.Work is in 5 cities with profit-generating centres simultaneously growing our steel business by 300%. This phase holds a high magnitude in my career.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
CSR is an ethical framework suggesting that an entity has a direct obligation towards the society. At Bindal Group, we firmly believe in giving back to the society. Since a healthy diet should be accessible to everyone, we provide with the best quality food to all our 5000 collaborates for free, every day! In view of the fact that education enhances the quality of life, we encourage our employees to take part in initiatives like “Teach For India”. To increase the availability of clean water to the locals, we consistently place hand pumps in the surrounding areas. Organising free health camps for the natives, arranging community marriage ceremonies and providing shelter to thousands of non-milking and abandoned cattle is our bit towards social responsibility. In addition to it, we aid budding entrepreneurs with financial assistance and industry specific knowledge.
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
Since childhood, my fervour was towards entrepreneurship and I had many thrilling ideas to execute. Quoting an interesting event from my early teenage, I used to flip and trade old cars by revamping them with small investment and then selling at profit. My passion to be an entrepreneur has always driven me to plan, strategize and analyze the dynamic scenarios around.
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
I have seen my father involving himself in humanitarian activities since forever. His inclination towards philanthropic work and social initiatives has instilled the same emotion in me. Since I’ve been raised with the same compassion towards the society, I ensure that my venture too has tie-ups with various NGOs to build a better living. Empathy comes to me naturally and I also try to inculcate the same in my team and everyone associated with me. The philanthropic activities have to be part of our annual marketing plan and we have a separate budget for it not to merely brand ourselves but because that’s how it’s been over the years.
How do you define success and how do you measure up your own definition?
Success, to me, has no definition. I believe it is related to personal satisfaction. It will always be different for different people. Person X might do something and feel satisfied and accomplished but the person Y might do something better and is still dissatisfied. For the outside world you are successful but for yourself, you are still striving and improving every day. No metric can measure it. Also, once u label yourself, you limit yourself and I don’t believe in setting any limit.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Talk about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
At our steel manufacturing units, the continuous cast billets were produced at a temperature of 1000-1100 degrees, cooled down, cut into smaller size and then again reheated at the same temperature. While observing this process several times, I suggested my technical staff to directly roll the billets after first heating. The results were amazing and turned out that the idea had the potential to save time and cost. This process was soon followed by every other player which is saving around $200 Mn across the industry every year.
Recently, our venture One Co.Work (co-working industry) was launched as one of the first few players in the co-working industry. Also, being a shared office space provider at One Co.Work we already have been offering workspaces that are better (than working in traditional offices), faster (as plug & play), smarter (with all the services in the same place) and cost effective (compared to conventional spaces).
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership is the art of managing a team and inspiring them to put their best forward. It’s always about ‘taking people along’. A leader doesn’t command but rather guides. It’s not just about the delegation of work but the team efforts to successfully achieve the common goal. I believe that an employee always longs for two things: acknowledgement and appreciation. This is what drives them and the organisation as a whole. I personally leave no stone unturned to recognise my team’s value.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
My perception of an empowered society is where people lift each other and thrive together. When people on a success journey take other people along, it makes the world a better place. At our steel plant we employ more than 5000 people, 70% of whom are from the local areas. We understand that it’s our responsibility to give opportunities to the local people so that they can make a good living. Concurrently, through our co-working venture we’re helping every entrepreneur with apt services within their means. In our supply chain, we persistently empower the budding entrepreneurs by providing them industry specific information and funds.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing wish to retain about the industry?
We need to be dynamic to survive and change is for good. The steel manufacturing industry has always been male dominated. Giving employment opportunities and providing equal chances to women is the change I would like to bring in this industry. Not just this would be an act of women empowerment but their ideas in the industry, like any other, would add to the potential of the business.
The steel industry is always open to research & development, new ideas and innovation. We always try to innovate to come up with efficient products. This practice in particular should stay in the industry.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Anyone can be an entrepreneur but not everyone can be a good leader. History proves that ego is always destructive. I advise all the existing and future entrepreneurs to stay humble and grounded. Be approachable to your team and welcome the ideas and suggestions by them. At the end it’s all about knowledge sharing; we all learn from each other.
Whom do you owe your success to?
Undoubtedly, I owe my success to my parents and my family for backing me. My father has always been my inspiration for how active, dedicated & passionate he’s been for his work. I thank my parents for passing the same values to me and teaching me that work is worship. I’m equally thankful to my employees, mentors, seniors and colleagues to being therein every thick and thin.
Best thing about your job?
Every person you meet teaches you something and vice versa. The best part of my job is building meaningful network. The more we know, the more we grow ‘together’. Not just connecting but exchanging opportunities where one gets a good resource and the other gets desirable employment.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Youth is the future of our country. My message, rather an advice to all the future entrepreneurs is to be passionate, keep scouting for opportunities, harness teamwork, seek inspiration and never give up. If you wish to win bigger battles, first win your people’s heart. Put your honest efforts and stay committed. Long live entrepreneurship!
Read the full article
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Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Every day we are inundated with decisions, big and small. Several factors like past experiences, age, cognitive biases and observations influence the decision making process.
Initially, we are all swayed by others but eventually, our experiences gain us the wisdom. Our learning and experiences gradually change and facilitate our decisiveness be it while making internal policies or product guidelines. I think there is no standard formula for making decisions. Apparently, it’s all situational.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
Born and brought up in a successful business family had me occupied in the industry from a tender age. Manoeuvring my work experience from our plant, studying about the industry and the recent trends instilled in me the fire to do something of my own. Co-working industry was booming back in 2015 and having a keen interest in commercial real-estate, I decided to launch One Co.Work. Seeing my own venture growing successfully motivated me to launch a new property. With God’s grace, in just 3 years, One Co.Work is in 5 cities with profit-generating centres simultaneously growing our steel business by 300%. This phase holds a high magnitude in my career.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
CSR is an ethical framework suggesting that an entity has a direct obligation towards the society. At Bindal Group, we firmly believe in giving back to the society. Since a healthy diet should be accessible to everyone, we provide with the best quality food to all our 5000 collaborates for free, every day! In view of the fact that education enhances the quality of life, we encourage our employees to take part in initiatives like “Teach For India”. To increase the availability of clean water to the locals, we consistently place hand pumps in the surrounding areas. Organising free health camps for the natives, arranging community marriage ceremonies and providing shelter to thousands of non-milking and abandoned cattle is our bit towards social responsibility. In addition to it, we aid budding entrepreneurs with financial assistance and industry specific knowledge.
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
Since childhood, my fervour was towards entrepreneurship and I had many thrilling ideas to execute. Quoting an interesting event from my early teenage, I used to flip and trade old cars by revamping them with small investment and then selling at profit. My passion to be an entrepreneur has always driven me to plan, strategize and analyze the dynamic scenarios around.
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
I have seen my father involving himself in humanitarian activities since forever. His inclination towards philanthropic work and social initiatives has instilled the same emotion in me. Since I’ve been raised with the same compassion towards the society, I ensure that my venture too has tie-ups with various NGOs to build a better living. Empathy comes to me naturally and I also try to inculcate the same in my team and everyone associated with me. The philanthropic activities have to be part of our annual marketing plan and we have a separate budget for it not to merely brand ourselves but because that’s how it’s been over the years.
How do you define success and how do you measure up your own definition?
Success, to me, has no definition. I believe it is related to personal satisfaction. It will always be different for different people. Person X might do something and feel satisfied and accomplished but the person Y might do something better and is still dissatisfied. For the outside world you are successful but for yourself, you are still striving and improving every day. No metric can measure it. Also, once u label yourself, you limit yourself and I don’t believe in setting any limit.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Talk about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
At our steel manufacturing units, the continuous cast billets were produced at a temperature of 1000-1100 degrees, cooled down, cut into smaller size and then again reheated at the same temperature. While observing this process several times, I suggested my technical staff to directly roll the billets after first heating. The results were amazing and turned out that the idea had the potential to save time and cost. This process was soon followed by every other player which is saving around $200 Mn across the industry every year.
Recently, our venture One Co.Work (co-working industry) was launched as one of the first few players in the co-working industry. Also, being a shared office space provider at One Co.Work we already have been offering workspaces that are better (than working in traditional offices), faster (as plug & play), smarter (with all the services in the same place) and cost effective (compared to conventional spaces).
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership is the art of managing a team and inspiring them to put their best forward. It’s always about ‘taking people along’. A leader doesn’t command but rather guides. It’s not just about the delegation of work but the team efforts to successfully achieve the common goal. I believe that an employee always longs for two things: acknowledgement and appreciation. This is what drives them and the organisation as a whole. I personally leave no stone unturned to recognise my team’s value.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
My perception of an empowered society is where people lift each other and thrive together. When people on a success journey take other people along, it makes the world a better place. At our steel plant we employ more than 5000 people, 70% of whom are from the local areas. We understand that it’s our responsibility to give opportunities to the local people so that they can make a good living. Concurrently, through our co-working venture we’re helping every entrepreneur with apt services within their means. In our supply chain, we persistently empower the budding entrepreneurs by providing them industry specific information and funds.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing wish to retain about the industry?
We need to be dynamic to survive and change is for good. The steel manufacturing industry has always been male dominated. Giving employment opportunities and providing equal chances to women is the change I would like to bring in this industry. Not just this would be an act of women empowerment but their ideas in the industry, like any other, would add to the potential of the business.
The steel industry is always open to research & development, new ideas and innovation. We always try to innovate to come up with efficient products. This practice in particular should stay in the industry.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Anyone can be an entrepreneur but not everyone can be a good leader. History proves that ego is always destructive. I advise all the existing and future entrepreneurs to stay humble and grounded. Be approachable to your team and welcome the ideas and suggestions by them. At the end it’s all about knowledge sharing; we all learn from each other.
Whom do you owe your success to?
Undoubtedly, I owe my success to my parents and my family for backing me. My father has always been my inspiration for how active, dedicated & passionate he’s been for his work. I thank my parents for passing the same values to me and teaching me that work is worship. I’m equally thankful to my employees, mentors, seniors and colleagues to being therein every thick and thin.
Best thing about your job?
Every person you meet teaches you something and vice versa. The best part of my job is building meaningful network. The more we know, the more we grow ‘together’. Not just connecting but exchanging opportunities where one gets a good resource and the other gets desirable employment.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Youth is the future of our country. My message, rather an advice to all the future entrepreneurs is to be passionate, keep scouting for opportunities, harness teamwork, seek inspiration and never give up. If you wish to win bigger battles, first win your people’s heart. Put your honest efforts and stay committed. Long live entrepreneurship!
Read the full article
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Text
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Every day we are inundated with decisions, big and small. Several factors like past experiences, age, cognitive biases and observations influence the decision making process.
Initially, we are all swayed by others but eventually, our experiences gain us the wisdom. Our learning and experiences gradually change and facilitate our decisiveness be it while making internal policies or product guidelines. I think there is no standard formula for making decisions. Apparently, it’s all situational.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
Born and brought up in a successful business family had me occupied in the industry from a tender age. Manoeuvring my work experience from our plant, studying about the industry and the recent trends instilled in me the fire to do something of my own. Co-working industry was booming back in 2015 and having a keen interest in commercial real-estate, I decided to launch One Co.Work. Seeing my own venture growing successfully motivated me to launch a new property. With God’s grace, in just 3 years, One Co.Work is in 5 cities with profit-generating centres simultaneously growing our steel business by 300%. This phase holds a high magnitude in my career.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
CSR is an ethical framework suggesting that an entity has a direct obligation towards the society. At Bindal Group, we firmly believe in giving back to the society. Since a healthy diet should be accessible to everyone, we provide with the best quality food to all our 5000 collaborates for free, every day! In view of the fact that education enhances the quality of life, we encourage our employees to take part in initiatives like “Teach For India”. To increase the availability of clean water to the locals, we consistently place hand pumps in the surrounding areas. Organising free health camps for the natives, arranging community marriage ceremonies and providing shelter to thousands of non-milking and abandoned cattle is our bit towards social responsibility. In addition to it, we aid budding entrepreneurs with financial assistance and industry specific knowledge.
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
Since childhood, my fervour was towards entrepreneurship and I had many thrilling ideas to execute. Quoting an interesting event from my early teenage, I used to flip and trade old cars by revamping them with small investment and then selling at profit. My passion to be an entrepreneur has always driven me to plan, strategize and analyze the dynamic scenarios around.
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
I have seen my father involving himself in humanitarian activities since forever. His inclination towards philanthropic work and social initiatives has instilled the same emotion in me. Since I’ve been raised with the same compassion towards the society, I ensure that my venture too has tie-ups with various NGOs to build a better living. Empathy comes to me naturally and I also try to inculcate the same in my team and everyone associated with me. The philanthropic activities have to be part of our annual marketing plan and we have a separate budget for it not to merely brand ourselves but because that’s how it’s been over the years.
How do you define success and how do you measure up your own definition?
Success, to me, has no definition. I believe it is related to personal satisfaction. It will always be different for different people. Person X might do something and feel satisfied and accomplished but the person Y might do something better and is still dissatisfied. For the outside world you are successful but for yourself, you are still striving and improving every day. No metric can measure it. Also, once u label yourself, you limit yourself and I don’t believe in setting any limit.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Talk about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
At our steel manufacturing units, the continuous cast billets were produced at a temperature of 1000-1100 degrees, cooled down, cut into smaller size and then again reheated at the same temperature. While observing this process several times, I suggested my technical staff to directly roll the billets after first heating. The results were amazing and turned out that the idea had the potential to save time and cost. This process was soon followed by every other player which is saving around $200 Mn across the industry every year.
Recently, our venture One Co.Work (co-working industry) was launched as one of the first few players in the co-working industry. Also, being a shared office space provider at One Co.Work we already have been offering workspaces that are better (than working in traditional offices), faster (as plug & play), smarter (with all the services in the same place) and cost effective (compared to conventional spaces).
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership is the art of managing a team and inspiring them to put their best forward. It’s always about ‘taking people along’. A leader doesn’t command but rather guides. It’s not just about the delegation of work but the team efforts to successfully achieve the common goal. I believe that an employee always longs for two things: acknowledgement and appreciation. This is what drives them and the organisation as a whole. I personally leave no stone unturned to recognise my team’s value.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
My perception of an empowered society is where people lift each other and thrive together. When people on a success journey take other people along, it makes the world a better place. At our steel plant we employ more than 5000 people, 70% of whom are from the local areas. We understand that it’s our responsibility to give opportunities to the local people so that they can make a good living. Concurrently, through our co-working venture we’re helping every entrepreneur with apt services within their means. In our supply chain, we persistently empower the budding entrepreneurs by providing them industry specific information and funds.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing wish to retain about the industry?
We need to be dynamic to survive and change is for good. The steel manufacturing industry has always been male dominated. Giving employment opportunities and providing equal chances to women is the change I would like to bring in this industry. Not just this would be an act of women empowerment but their ideas in the industry, like any other, would add to the potential of the business.
The steel industry is always open to research & development, new ideas and innovation. We always try to innovate to come up with efficient products. This practice in particular should stay in the industry.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Anyone can be an entrepreneur but not everyone can be a good leader. History proves that ego is always destructive. I advise all the existing and future entrepreneurs to stay humble and grounded. Be approachable to your team and welcome the ideas and suggestions by them. At the end it’s all about knowledge sharing; we all learn from each other.
Whom do you owe your success to?
Undoubtedly, I owe my success to my parents and my family for backing me. My father has always been my inspiration for how active, dedicated & passionate he’s been for his work. I thank my parents for passing the same values to me and teaching me that work is worship. I’m equally thankful to my employees, mentors, seniors and colleagues to being therein every thick and thin.
Best thing about your job?
Every person you meet teaches you something and vice versa. The best part of my job is building meaningful network. The more we know, the more we grow ‘together’. Not just connecting but exchanging opportunities where one gets a good resource and the other gets desirable employment.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Youth is the future of our country. My message, rather an advice to all the future entrepreneurs is to be passionate, keep scouting for opportunities, harness teamwork, seek inspiration and never give up. If you wish to win bigger battles, first win your people’s heart. Put your honest efforts and stay committed. Long live entrepreneurship!
Read the full article
0 notes
Text
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Every day we are inundated with decisions, big and small. Several factors like past experiences, age, cognitive biases and observations influence the decision making process.
Initially, we are all swayed by others but eventually, our experiences gain us the wisdom. Our learning and experiences gradually change and facilitate our decisiveness be it while making internal policies or product guidelines. I think there is no standard formula for making decisions. Apparently, it’s all situational.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
Born and brought up in a successful business family had me occupied in the industry from a tender age. Manoeuvring my work experience from our plant, studying about the industry and the recent trends instilled in me the fire to do something of my own. Co-working industry was booming back in 2015 and having a keen interest in commercial real-estate, I decided to launch One Co.Work. Seeing my own venture growing successfully motivated me to launch a new property. With God’s grace, in just 3 years, One Co.Work is in 5 cities with profit-generating centres simultaneously growing our steel business by 300%. This phase holds a high magnitude in my career.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
CSR is an ethical framework suggesting that an entity has a direct obligation towards the society. At Bindal Group, we firmly believe in giving back to the society. Since a healthy diet should be accessible to everyone, we provide with the best quality food to all our 5000 collaborates for free, every day! In view of the fact that education enhances the quality of life, we encourage our employees to take part in initiatives like “Teach For India”. To increase the availability of clean water to the locals, we consistently place hand pumps in the surrounding areas. Organising free health camps for the natives, arranging community marriage ceremonies and providing shelter to thousands of non-milking and abandoned cattle is our bit towards social responsibility. In addition to it, we aid budding entrepreneurs with financial assistance and industry specific knowledge.
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
Since childhood, my fervour was towards entrepreneurship and I had many thrilling ideas to execute. Quoting an interesting event from my early teenage, I used to flip and trade old cars by revamping them with small investment and then selling at profit. My passion to be an entrepreneur has always driven me to plan, strategize and analyze the dynamic scenarios around.
Himanshu Bindal, Bindal Group - India's Transformational Leader 2019
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
I have seen my father involving himself in humanitarian activities since forever. His inclination towards philanthropic work and social initiatives has instilled the same emotion in me. Since I’ve been raised with the same compassion towards the society, I ensure that my venture too has tie-ups with various NGOs to build a better living. Empathy comes to me naturally and I also try to inculcate the same in my team and everyone associated with me. The philanthropic activities have to be part of our annual marketing plan and we have a separate budget for it not to merely brand ourselves but because that’s how it’s been over the years.
How do you define success and how do you measure up your own definition?
Success, to me, has no definition. I believe it is related to personal satisfaction. It will always be different for different people. Person X might do something and feel satisfied and accomplished but the person Y might do something better and is still dissatisfied. For the outside world you are successful but for yourself, you are still striving and improving every day. No metric can measure it. Also, once u label yourself, you limit yourself and I don’t believe in setting any limit.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Talk about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
At our steel manufacturing units, the continuous cast billets were produced at a temperature of 1000-1100 degrees, cooled down, cut into smaller size and then again reheated at the same temperature. While observing this process several times, I suggested my technical staff to directly roll the billets after first heating. The results were amazing and turned out that the idea had the potential to save time and cost. This process was soon followed by every other player which is saving around $200 Mn across the industry every year.
Recently, our venture One Co.Work (co-working industry) was launched as one of the first few players in the co-working industry. Also, being a shared office space provider at One Co.Work we already have been offering workspaces that are better (than working in traditional offices), faster (as plug & play), smarter (with all the services in the same place) and cost effective (compared to conventional spaces).
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership is the art of managing a team and inspiring them to put their best forward. It’s always about ‘taking people along’. A leader doesn’t command but rather guides. It’s not just about the delegation of work but the team efforts to successfully achieve the common goal. I believe that an employee always longs for two things: acknowledgement and appreciation. This is what drives them and the organisation as a whole. I personally leave no stone unturned to recognise my team’s value.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
My perception of an empowered society is where people lift each other and thrive together. When people on a success journey take other people along, it makes the world a better place. At our steel plant we employ more than 5000 people, 70% of whom are from the local areas. We understand that it’s our responsibility to give opportunities to the local people so that they can make a good living. Concurrently, through our co-working venture we’re helping every entrepreneur with apt services within their means. In our supply chain, we persistently empower the budding entrepreneurs by providing them industry specific information and funds.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing wish to retain about the industry?
We need to be dynamic to survive and change is for good. The steel manufacturing industry has always been male dominated. Giving employment opportunities and providing equal chances to women is the change I would like to bring in this industry. Not just this would be an act of women empowerment but their ideas in the industry, like any other, would add to the potential of the business.
The steel industry is always open to research & development, new ideas and innovation. We always try to innovate to come up with efficient products. This practice in particular should stay in the industry.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Anyone can be an entrepreneur but not everyone can be a good leader. History proves that ego is always destructive. I advise all the existing and future entrepreneurs to stay humble and grounded. Be approachable to your team and welcome the ideas and suggestions by them. At the end it’s all about knowledge sharing; we all learn from each other.
Whom do you owe your success to?
Undoubtedly, I owe my success to my parents and my family for backing me. My father has always been my inspiration for how active, dedicated & passionate he’s been for his work. I thank my parents for passing the same values to me and teaching me that work is worship. I’m equally thankful to my employees, mentors, seniors and colleagues to being therein every thick and thin.
Best thing about your job?
Every person you meet teaches you something and vice versa. The best part of my job is building meaningful network. The more we know, the more we grow ‘together’. Not just connecting but exchanging opportunities where one gets a good resource and the other gets desirable employment.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Youth is the future of our country. My message, rather an advice to all the future entrepreneurs is to be passionate, keep scouting for opportunities, harness teamwork, seek inspiration and never give up. If you wish to win bigger battles, first win your people’s heart. Put your honest efforts and stay committed. Long live entrepreneurship!
Read the full article
0 notes
Text
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
Decision making is crucial to all dynamics that involved in the ecosystem. Over the years, I have come to realize that it takes a combination insight and foresight to make the right decisions.
The evolution to this philosophy has taken a few years though. When I started out as a young professional, like most others, I was only executing the decisions made by seniors. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that each cog in the wheel is an important aspect of decision making. An organization is only as good as its team. Gauging situations correctly and being able to think laterally are other important aspects that have helped me immensely in being prudent about the decisions I make today for myself and on behalf of my clients.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
The most significant accomplishment during my career was the launch of Piramal Sarvajal, seeded by the Piramal Foundation in 2008. It was a unique mission driven social enterprise that designs and deploys innovative solutions for creating affordable access to safe drinking water in underserved areas. Sarvajal is at the forefront of developing technologies and business practices in the safe drinking water sector that are designed to make a purely market-based model sustainable in both rural and urban deployment conditions. The mileage generated for the project not only garnered attention of policy makers but also corporates and apex bodies in India. It also had the privilege of being mentioned as the most promising initiative in a White House press release.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
We are an integrated communications agency and are actively involved in providing communications strategy and support to large corporate houses and Independent charitable funds. As part of our giveback to the community we undertake pro bono projects for NGOs involved in development of the underprivileged, on a regular basis.
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
‘Knowledge is Power’ is the philosophy that I believe in. Increasing one’s knowledge of just his/her own domain is simply not enough. Knowledge of one’s clients businesses, relevant sectors, geo-political conditions and overall global business trends are a must to stay competitive. Keeping to this philosophy, we at Krescendo strive to provide knowledge powered insightful business solutions to our clients and partners.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Some of the prominent works that we have undertaken are as follows:
Peace On Wheels – World’s first Mobile meditation van
Impact - This initiative came to my mind and was the result of close study of the stressful lives that millennials lead due to over digitization and increasing work pressures. With this noble concept of we took meditation to those who are stressed, right to their door step be it home or work. The initiative was launched in partnership with Jawaharlal Nehru Udyog Kendra in Pune, Maharashtra, India by the Commissioner of Women and Child Welfare and Development department
Wings Rainbow in partnership with Humsafar Trust- India’s First and only LGBT driven radio cab service
Impact - Post launch got an appreciation by The U.S. Consulate, Mumbai. Special invitee to attend a round table discussion on LGBT Issues in India along with EXIM Bank Chairman Fred Hochberg which was organized by U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai. The dignitaries present for the round table were Radhika Primal, MD, VIP Industries, Matt Beven, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Nisaba Godrej, Director, Godrej Industries and Pallav Patankar, Director, Humsafar Trust.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – Launch and free distribution of India’s first beetle flavored condoms for sex workers in Mumbai
Impact – Ground level connect with sex workers to understand their problems. Conducted AIDS awareness workshops and educated them on the repercussions of unsafe/unprotected sex.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success is a result that one sets out to achieve. According to me process is the key element that helps one keep checks and balances and ensures success in any sphere of life. A systematic approach to designing solutions is imperative to ensure and maintain a successful success rate. However, it is also very relative in nature. What may have seemed like success five years ago, maybe irrelevant today. Hence I reset my success metrics every year to ensure that I cover, knowledge, experiential growth along with business.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Tell me about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
Our entire proposition at Krescendo is about providing better, faster, smarter, cost effective solutions. Krescendo started out as a pure play Public Relations agency and within three years of inception moved on to become a wholly integrated communications company that provides reputation management, brand strategy, digital media solutions, advertising and production, content management services to name a few. We have now also moved on to providing strategic partnership consulting as well. This ensures that all communications are seamless and cost effective.
As the most recent testament to our evolution as a turnkey partner, we launched India’s most reputed online music learning school, Shankar Mahadevan Academy in Singapore. For this project we scouted for a local partner, brokered the alliance with Maharashtra Mandal Singapore and also designed and implemented communication campaigns to reach out to the entire ASIA market. Our carefully designed and implemented strategies witnessed a stellar response from ASIA and had the highest recall value during the launch and post launch phases. Enquiries grew manifold; student traction ratio increased thus making it a successful launch.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership qualities are tested the most during the time of a transition. Clarity of vision and dexterity of the strategy that goes into the decision making at such a crucial juncture, defines great leadership. In my opinion, the most significant aspect of leadership is the ability to understand flux, convert it into actionables and inspire your team to collaborate and produce winning results.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
An old adage makes a lot of sense here - “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him to fish and you feed him for life.” Empowerment of the society is the only way to building a strong and successful nation. Our industry has been an evangelist for empowering the society ever since inception. Apart from creating new job opportunities and being equal opportunity employers, we also are the information bearers for the society who empower them make better informed decisions in life.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
Paucity of skilled workforce is something I would like to see a change in. As our industry becomes more sophisticated, cross functional and global in nature, industry ready skills is the need of the hour. Mediocrity has no space here and I wish to see that change. Thoroughness in approach to solutions is a vibe that is auguring well for the industry and I wish we retain that and even better; take it a couple of notches higher.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Since the day I have become an entrepreneur I have let go of feeling the need to micromanage work.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I owe my success to Ajay Piramal and Swati Piramal of Piramal Enterprise for believing in me and making a difference in my life and also, my parents and family who believe in my dream and stand by me as pillars of strength.
Best thing about your job?
Best thing about my job is that it helps me be on track with what is happening around the world in real time. This profession has made me a smarter, better organized professional and gives ample opportunity to add true value to brands that impact us daily.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Entrepreneurship is a huge responsibility. It means that while you will create jobs and help the economy, you are equally responsible for the people who join you as they believe in your vision. There is no short cut to success. As entrepreneurs you might come across many challenging situations that seem overbearing. Self-belief and relentless pursuit of excellence will bring rewards for you and your partners. Be diligent.
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India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
Decision making is crucial to all dynamics that involved in the ecosystem. Over the years, I have come to realize that it takes a combination insight and foresight to make the right decisions.
The evolution to this philosophy has taken a few years though. When I started out as a young professional, like most others, I was only executing the decisions made by seniors. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that each cog in the wheel is an important aspect of decision making. An organization is only as good as its team. Gauging situations correctly and being able to think laterally are other important aspects that have helped me immensely in being prudent about the decisions I make today for myself and on behalf of my clients.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
The most significant accomplishment during my career was the launch of Piramal Sarvajal, seeded by the Piramal Foundation in 2008. It was a unique mission driven social enterprise that designs and deploys innovative solutions for creating affordable access to safe drinking water in underserved areas. Sarvajal is at the forefront of developing technologies and business practices in the safe drinking water sector that are designed to make a purely market-based model sustainable in both rural and urban deployment conditions. The mileage generated for the project not only garnered attention of policy makers but also corporates and apex bodies in India. It also had the privilege of being mentioned as the most promising initiative in a White House press release.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
We are an integrated communications agency and are actively involved in providing communications strategy and support to large corporate houses and Independent charitable funds. As part of our giveback to the community we undertake pro bono projects for NGOs involved in development of the underprivileged, on a regular basis.
India's Transformational Leaders 2019 - Ganesh Somwanshi, Kresendo Communications
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
‘Knowledge is Power’ is the philosophy that I believe in. Increasing one’s knowledge of just his/her own domain is simply not enough. Knowledge of one’s clients businesses, relevant sectors, geo-political conditions and overall global business trends are a must to stay competitive. Keeping to this philosophy, we at Krescendo strive to provide knowledge powered insightful business solutions to our clients and partners.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Some of the prominent works that we have undertaken are as follows:
Peace On Wheels – World’s first Mobile meditation van
Impact - This initiative came to my mind and was the result of close study of the stressful lives that millennials lead due to over digitization and increasing work pressures. With this noble concept of we took meditation to those who are stressed, right to their door step be it home or work. The initiative was launched in partnership with Jawaharlal Nehru Udyog Kendra in Pune, Maharashtra, India by the Commissioner of Women and Child Welfare and Development department
Wings Rainbow in partnership with Humsafar Trust- India’s First and only LGBT driven radio cab service
Impact - Post launch got an appreciation by The U.S. Consulate, Mumbai. Special invitee to attend a round table discussion on LGBT Issues in India along with EXIM Bank Chairman Fred Hochberg which was organized by U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai. The dignitaries present for the round table were Radhika Primal, MD, VIP Industries, Matt Beven, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Nisaba Godrej, Director, Godrej Industries and Pallav Patankar, Director, Humsafar Trust.
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – Launch and free distribution of India’s first beetle flavored condoms for sex workers in Mumbai
Impact – Ground level connect with sex workers to understand their problems. Conducted AIDS awareness workshops and educated them on the repercussions of unsafe/unprotected sex.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
Success is a result that one sets out to achieve. According to me process is the key element that helps one keep checks and balances and ensures success in any sphere of life. A systematic approach to designing solutions is imperative to ensure and maintain a successful success rate. However, it is also very relative in nature. What may have seemed like success five years ago, maybe irrelevant today. Hence I reset my success metrics every year to ensure that I cover, knowledge, experiential growth along with business.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Tell me about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
Our entire proposition at Krescendo is about providing better, faster, smarter, cost effective solutions. Krescendo started out as a pure play Public Relations agency and within three years of inception moved on to become a wholly integrated communications company that provides reputation management, brand strategy, digital media solutions, advertising and production, content management services to name a few. We have now also moved on to providing strategic partnership consulting as well. This ensures that all communications are seamless and cost effective.
As the most recent testament to our evolution as a turnkey partner, we launched India’s most reputed online music learning school, Shankar Mahadevan Academy in Singapore. For this project we scouted for a local partner, brokered the alliance with Maharashtra Mandal Singapore and also designed and implemented communication campaigns to reach out to the entire ASIA market. Our carefully designed and implemented strategies witnessed a stellar response from ASIA and had the highest recall value during the launch and post launch phases. Enquiries grew manifold; student traction ratio increased thus making it a successful launch.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
Leadership qualities are tested the most during the time of a transition. Clarity of vision and dexterity of the strategy that goes into the decision making at such a crucial juncture, defines great leadership. In my opinion, the most significant aspect of leadership is the ability to understand flux, convert it into actionables and inspire your team to collaborate and produce winning results.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
An old adage makes a lot of sense here - “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach him to fish and you feed him for life.” Empowerment of the society is the only way to building a strong and successful nation. Our industry has been an evangelist for empowering the society ever since inception. Apart from creating new job opportunities and being equal opportunity employers, we also are the information bearers for the society who empower them make better informed decisions in life.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
Paucity of skilled workforce is something I would like to see a change in. As our industry becomes more sophisticated, cross functional and global in nature, industry ready skills is the need of the hour. Mediocrity has no space here and I wish to see that change. Thoroughness in approach to solutions is a vibe that is auguring well for the industry and I wish we retain that and even better; take it a couple of notches higher.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
Since the day I have become an entrepreneur I have let go of feeling the need to micromanage work.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I owe my success to Ajay Piramal and Swati Piramal of Piramal Enterprise for believing in me and making a difference in my life and also, my parents and family who believe in my dream and stand by me as pillars of strength.
Best thing about your job?
Best thing about my job is that it helps me be on track with what is happening around the world in real time. This profession has made me a smarter, better organized professional and gives ample opportunity to add true value to brands that impact us daily.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Entrepreneurship is a huge responsibility. It means that while you will create jobs and help the economy, you are equally responsible for the people who join you as they believe in your vision. There is no short cut to success. As entrepreneurs you might come across many challenging situations that seem overbearing. Self-belief and relentless pursuit of excellence will bring rewards for you and your partners. Be diligent.
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India's Transformational Leaders 2019: Dr. Tushar Vinod Deoras, Astute Academy
India's Transformational Leaders 2019: Dr. Tushar Vinod Deoras, Astute Academy
My vision is to make Astute Academy, World’s #1 Ethical Student-Centric Academy with Social touch. My Passion to achieve this Goal drives me to work with zeal.
Years of working in the industry, your contribution reflects versatility and volubility. What has influenced your decision making process at various stages?
Being in Education field, the whole process revolve around the apt Career guidance for student. At every stage ethics, ethical business Practices and student centric approach takes the center stage. My fight against the Commercialisation of education with social touch has given numerous awards and recognition. Today my company, Astute Academy is India #1 Career Counselling academy.
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
Anti-Donation campaign against admissions in MBBS/MD institutes in India is most signification social initiative which got huge response from Parents and students. In India, Donation had become the norm for MBBS/MD admissions. We spearheaded All India campaign and today we can say with Pride that we can get students MBBS/MD admissions in India purely on Merit without Donation or Management quota irrespective of NEET marks. We have become ONLY academy to accomplish in India. Others are Teaching Reforms, fight against Commercialisation of Coaching Industry without accountability, Research Outsourcing and many numerous projects underway for Educational reforms.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
The foundation of Astute Academy is Social initiatives. In view, starting from Identification of right Career to admissions in Prestigious Universities helped students from urban and Rural areas. We are ONLY academy in India provides Free Counselling to student as social cause. We conduct free Career Counselling sessions/seminars in rural areas, schools and empower students with guidance for right Career. We had received the “Corporate Social Responsibility” award for Student empowerment in rural Maharashtra by Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri Devendra Fadnavis.
India's Transformational Leaders 2019: Dr. Tushar Vinod Deoras, Astute Academy
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
My vision is to make Astute Academy, World’s #1 Ethical Student-Centric Academy with Social touch. My Passion to achieve this Goal drives me to work with zeal.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
Working towards training the teachers programs. India is facing severe shortage of qualified
teachers. Young generation not entering teaching profession as 1st career. The Teaching methodology over the years have changed and there is need to develop teaching skills. Another major initiative is Coaching classes reforms. Coaching industry is too commercial without any accountability. In view, we have established the Research Lab which provide the showcase to the Coaching industry. We want to support Coaching industry for the benefit of students. Accountability is key element.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
If I am happy what I am doing and my guidance is helping the society, its success for me. When I get peaceful sleep at night without any worry, its success for me. When I see students making great career matching their skill, its success for me. When I am 100% law abiding citizen with contribution to society, its success for me. If I can run 100% ethical business, its success for me. All other recognitions are milestone which boost my morale to work even harder.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Talk about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
There are many. We are only academy in India which helps MBBS/MD student admit in India without donation thereby saving huge amount. We are the only Career Counselling Academy in India having Center of Excellence in USA whereby we can sent students to USA for quality education with cost lower than India. Large number of our students go to USA with 100% Scholarships. Engineering with Rs.4 Lacs a year is common which nobody in India can provide. We send students to better Universities than India. In Engineering, better institutes than even IITs.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has/can contribute for the same?
I am pained due to too much commercialisation, no value system, ethics and lack of research in our education industry. In fact, the industry has failed to empower society and there need to be major overhaul due. The lack of focus for quality education, quality of teachers, research funding making Education sector down thereby social discrepancy increasing. Today educational institutes are not same as 10 years back and that pains me. I am trying my best to help industry but still major work needs to be done.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
I want all institutions research oriented. Education system need to evolve considering global needs. There is great need for Globalisation. I do not think anything needs to be retained from current. We need complete change of education starting from school education to higher education.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
I understand my limitation as an Individual and as a Company. Sometimes, I have accept baby steps rather than high pace development. As an entrepreneur, every thing cannot be done by me and we do face limitation as a team not able to match the growth.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I was a Scientist in Bhabha Atomic Research Center and there I got my first exposure to research which even today is helpful. Working closely with Visionary Shri Azim Premji, Chairman, Wipro and learning inculcation of Ethics, Social approach, Vision from him has made me a shape my personality.
Best thing about your job?
I enjoy what I do. I do what I enjoy. I do with Passion. Passion drives me.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Take leadership position. Spend at least 3 hours daily on research in your area however busy you may be. Follow Ethical Business Practices with 100% compliance of law of the land. Always have Vision for next 5-10 years. Change is constant and every change need 3-5 years to mature. Most great Business houses crash because they feel success is constant and thereby do not foresee in future. Do not run after money.
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Umesh Anand, Joint Managing Director at HPL Additives Limited - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Umesh Anand, Joint Managing Director at HPL Additives Limited - India's Transformational Leader 2019
I feel what is important is to lead with compassion. This does not compromise a good leader but rather strengthens him and makes him more effective.
What has influenced your decision making process at various stages?
Over the years my decision-making has been guided by the following factors:
Is this in line with the mission and vision of the company?
Will this be sustainable environmentally, improve and maintain a safe and healthy environment for the workforce, and be able to compete in the ever-changing global market?
A project or an accomplishment that you consider to be the most significant in your career?
In 1999, there was an accident at one of our chemical plants and it was completely burnt down. Before the accident it had a capacity of 600 MTA. This was a huge setback for the company as money had been invested by a PE fund for this plant. I took it upon myself to move my office to the site and ensure that I drove the rebuilding of the plant with an increased capacity of 2500 MTA in a record 6 months. The challenge was not the rebuilding. It was the fact that without any formal technical education in either chemistry or engineering I was able to lead a team and get them to build a plant that was better in all respects- quality, safety, environment impact and efficiency.
How do you integrate corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility as a part of your business strategies?
I feel what is important is to lead with compassion. This does not compromise a good leader but rather strengthens him and makes him more effective. People see CSR as a cost; I see it as an investment for the future not just from a philanthropic point of view but an effort and step in Nation building, in providing facilities and opportunities to improve current conditions in society and also prepare future generations to contribute towards the nation at large. This will obviously have an impact on the sustainability of corporates in many ways, going forward.
What has been your driving force or philosophy in life?
My philosophy has been – Do it right and do it well, or don’t bother doing it. There are no half measures and one must be passionate about everything one does, be it work, a hobby or relationships.
What are the other philanthropic works you are involved in?
At a corporate level - we have CSR budgets that are deployed in various initiatives such as skill development in neighboring villages, education, community development, holding medical camps in neighboring villages, financing pathology and diagnostic center for the underprivileged.
At a personal level I organize and fund an annual event that raises funds that are used towards providing treatment to underprivileged cancer patients. Besides this I am engaged in a number of initiatives that contribute to the rehabilitation of animals (mainly dogs), sponsoring education for a number of underprivileged girls, and regular charity through various NGO’s for education and child development.
How do you define success and how do you measure up to your own definition?
The global barometer for success is financial, I guess. While that be as it may, I believe that the more important measure of success is non-financial. It is ‘How have I made a difference to the lives of the people, around me, the environment and to humanity at large’ and to quote the title of one of my favorite books by Robin Sharma “Who will cry when you die?” I think that people who are privileged and have resources at their disposal should ‘make a difference’ and not just EXIST.
We are constantly making things better, faster, smarter or less expensive. In other words, we strive to do more with less. Tell me about a recent project or solution to a problem that you have made better, faster, smarter or less expensive?
Are we really trying to do more with less? I feel the truth is contrarian to that- we are doing a lot less with a lot more at our disposal. Yes, technology is empowering and one of the latest projects I initiated was the hooking up of all our plant sites and offices through video conferencing. We have 4 manufacturing sites, 2 in remote locations; one corporate office and three branch offices. Travelling to each location to review the operations or interact with the team was very time consuming. Inter site communication was also only though email and in some cases faceless. Video-conferencing brought people together, improved time management, brought about discipline and regular interaction improved decision-making and reduced response time.
However, even though this improved efficiency significantly, I also feel there is no substitute for human physical contact and interaction.
Today technology has shrunk the world but it has also eroded certain values and pleasures in society at some level too. It’s not always about faster, quicker and less expensive in my opinion.
In your opinion what is the most significant aspect of leadership?
The most important aspect of leadership is to create more leaders. A good leader must ensure that he is dispensable at all levels. One must show the way, lead from the front and then take a back seat and let leaders evolve. You will be surprised at how people behave and perform when they feel empowered? They have hope and see themselves as part of a bigger cause. Often leadership is confused with Manager-ship - all good managers don’t necessarily make good leaders. Lead with compassion, lead with a clear vision, lead with integrity and lead fearlessly but never take the credit away from the team.
Your perception of an empowered society. How far your industry has / can contribute for the same?
Today globalization, wealth generation, and information technology has empowered society to a very high degree. We have resources at our disposal that were not available to us 50 years ago. However, in some case this empowerment has been misused to cause more damage to the environment and the world around us.
I think as responsible corporate citizen we need to arrest the downslide, we need to ensure that we leave behind a planet better than what we inherited from our parents -especially being part of the Chemical industry, that’s even more relevant and important. The industry needs to be more committed to the environment and invest hugely in sustainable development that do not cause harm to the environment.
PERSONAL GRID
One thing you wish to change and one thing you wish to retain about your industry?
The one thing I would want to change is the way the industry sees the environment, the level of apathy and disregard for the environment and the future of the planet. The one thing I would like to retain is the entrepreneurial nature of some of the emerging corporates, where they have set up world scale plants to compete with the best in the business and companies, significantly larger and with global presence. The chemical industry has to face challenges at a global level from multibillion-dollar companies. The number of regulations that need to be followed for environmental and occupational safety compounds this. It is the sheer vision, and entrepreneurial spirit of the Indian companies that have put them on the world map and I would like to see that grow.
One thing you have to let go off as an entrepreneur/leader?
I think I need to let go of my biases about competition and the work ethic prevalent in China. I have always overlooked the significance of the Chinese presence and sometimes written them off as an opportunistic and artificially inflated economy. Over the years they have demonstrated tremendous resilience and determination and built a huge and very powerful economy and global presence, and this will only grow. I think I should get over the skepticism with which I have seen them so far and prepare myself and the corporation to take on the challenges they will pose in the years to come.
Whom do you owe your success to?
I don’t think it would be fair for me to say that I owe my success to any one person for a number of people have been instrumental in my development and the shaping of mind over the years.
From one of my earlier bosses (Mr. Harpal Duggal) when I was working for a multinational bank, I learnt the methodology and merits of a systematic and process driven approach towards managing a business and its complexities.
From an associate in Italy (Dr. Roberto Fassi) who I grew very close to and spent a lot of time professionally as well as personally, I learnt how to value relationships and to be compassionate.
From the Founder Chairman of HPL additives (Mr. Harcharan Singh who is like a father to me) I learnt how important tight financial control was for the success of an organization.
From my Father (Major K C Anand) I learnt the invaluable lesson of how nothing came before Integrity and Honesty and to be truly successful in life they should never be compromised.
From my mother (Late Mrs. Namita Anand) I learnt how important it was to forgive and move on and not let the baggage weigh you down or deter you in pursuing your goals.
Best thing about your job?
The freedom to dream, and the empowerment to chase the dream.
A message from you to all the future entrepreneurs/leaders?
Dream big, aim high, and then persevere to go after your dreams. Live with compassion, think with fairness, and act with wisdom.
Umesh Anand, Joint Managing Director at HPL Additives Limited - India's Transformational Leader 2019
Umesh Anand receiving the WCRC Transformational Awards held in London from Prof. McDonald and Lord Loomba
‘A great leader’s courage to fulfill his vision comes from passion, not position’ – John Maxwell succinctly describes for us what great leaders are made up of? Putting it in simple words, a great leader is someone who has the capability to dream the undreamt, achieve the unachieved and inspire others to follow suit. And Mr. Umesh Anand best exemplifies the definition of a great leader in every spirit!
Umesh Anand is the Joint Managing Director at HPL Additives Limited, a leading polymer additives manufacturing organisation in the world. Prior to joining HPL in 1996, he worked with Citibank for three years. He is an alumnus of Modern School, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi post which he attained his Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the University of Delhi and Masters in Business Administration from the College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia.
Umesh has played a pivotal role in taking HPL Additives beyond the horizons. Since joining the Board of Directors in 1996, he has been instrumental in pioneering a 360 degree approach to make the organisation evolve from a domestic player to a key international name in its domain. Umesh, with his innovative marketing strategies catapulted HPL Additives to be a highly reputed and trusted manufacturer of polymer additives at global level. In 2009, he was responsible for the complete re-positioning and branding of the company.
However, his true forte remains in strategizing and orchestrating the growth of HPL Additives - increased market share, reach and customer base. To sustain and ensure this growth, he assumed the overall strategic and executive responsibility of the organisation, which broadly includes Strategic Planning & Controlling of all departments, supply chain, R&D Investments, company-wide projects and expansions.
His sustained efforts enabled the company to expand its manufacturing capacity in record time some time back through re-engineering processes. In fact, currently too, he is at the forefront of the organization’s ambitious expansion plan for existing product line as well as introduction of new products which will complement its existing product range of polymer additives. The organisation is also in the process to commence manufacturing of Antioxidants One Pack formulation by May 2019.
A true environmentalist, Umesh brought in world class technology for Totally Degradable Plastic Additive for the first time in India - HIGRENTM OBA – a product that would reduce the harmful impacts of plastic pollution. The revolutionary HIGRENTM OBA additive accelerates the biodegradation of plastics within a controlled time frame, leaving behind no harmful residues in the environment.
A hands-on leader and a mentor for systemic approach for all processes, he is accredited with the implementation of the ERP platform within the organisation. This platform has allowed the entire organisation to be linked in real-time bringing about an extraordinary level of efficiency and effectiveness to the organisation. He has also assumed the role of an Internal Auditor, often making routine inspections throughout the offices and plants.
Moreover, being a finance student at heart, Mr. Anand has ensured that the company has never seen a loss making year, even when the market prospects for profits and growth reduced substantially due to Chinese competition and influence.
Lastly, he was a member of the Governing Council of FITT (Foundation of Innovation & Technology Transfer, IIT, Delhi) from 2008 to 2010. Besides his influence in the Indian plastics market, he has never failed to make HPL’s presence felt in seminars and exhibitions worldwide like the K Show, Dusseldorf.
Not many know that Mr. Anand is also an avid wildlife photographer with a vast collection of breathtaking photographs. A frequent traveler, Mr. Anand often juggles between his busy meeting schedules and his business travels to spend some ‘me’ time amidst the wilderness to capture the best of Nature in frames.
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