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Industry Leaders

Rendezvous with the Supply Chain Visionaries

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It is always a privilege and a delight to celebrate the remarkable journey of leaders who began their careers when supply chain was regarded as mere backroom logistics and have since reached pivotal roles, shaping the future of their organizations. At our recent conference in Bengaluru too, we honoured these exceptional trailblazers who stand in a league of their own. These interactions revealed their lighter side, showcasing not only their professional excellence but also their ability to strike a harmonious balance between work and personal life. This series is a tribute to their enduring legacy—inspiring the next generation of professionals to follow in their footsteps. 

What has been your passion project till date?

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Anil Tomar

Anil Tomar, COO, Aliaxis India Region, Member Board of Directors at Ashirvad: Setting up a future-ready organization at Ashirvad by Aliaxis has been my most fulfilling passion project. The initiative focused on fostering skills for efficiency, agility, profitability, customer service excellence, and innovation to ensure sustainable growth.

India has a vast reservoir of young talent, and this presents an incredible opportunity to harness their potential. A key aspect of the project was empowering this talent by creating a culture where a young engineer has the same opportunity to create an impact as a manager with decades of experience. We built a diverse team by integrating experienced professionals with expertise in core technology and young talent skilled in data analysis, AI, and IoT, striking the perfect balance between technical depth and digital innovation. Alongside, we emphasized strong fundamentals in operational basics, agility in decision-making, and encouraged creative thinking to solve problems and innovate.

This transformation focused on streamlining processes for reliability, efficiency, enhancing profitability through smarter operations, and elevating customer service excellence by delivering innovative, customer-centric solutions. It has been a deeply rewarding journey, showcasing how India’s young talent, when empowered and equipped with agility, can drive remarkable progress in building a future-ready organization.

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Bheem Manthale

Bheem Manthale, President – Operations and Supply chain, Parag Milk Foods: I was a part of several critical projects that offered me immense learning, growth amid facing multiple challenges, be it greenfield construction of refineries, installation and commissioning of high-speed bottling lines or multiple assignments on packaging plants/multiple corporate CSR projects. Among all, one project that remains close to my heart is the capability building of people at Coca-Cola using TPM, wherein I worked with more than 40 leaders and mentored them to excel in their respective roles. Today I see many of them climbing up the corporate ladder and taking up the leadership roles across industry verticals. This project really helped me understand the human behaviour and the growth of the people I mentored during the project offers me a great sense of pride.

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Nilanjan Das

Nilanjan Das, VP & Head – Supply Chain Management, Tata Hitachi Construction Machinery Co. Pvt. Ltd.: We have been consolidating Steel (commodity) purchase over the years. At our company, most of the fabricated components are made by our vendors and the Raw material input, Steel is purchased by each of the vendors individually as per their own contracts. We have engaged with three leading Indian Steel Companies and entered into Tripartite MOUs involving the Steel Co., our fabrication vendors and us. The consolidated requirement of multiple fabrication vendors now go to a single Steel Co. (and not to multiple sources and also not to any dealer/distributor). This ensures better prices backed by a robust transparent price change mechanism. Since we follow Zero based costing with our fabrication vendors, the ensuing cost benefit is passed on to us and thereafter help us compete better in the market. 

Apart from cost optimization, this has hugely helped in improvement in RM availability and better/standardization of steel quality parameters. Owing to the fact that we are not direct buyers of Steel, the above initiative posed numerous challenges with regards to managing diverse vendor requirements related to logistics, ordering patterns, financing, and many others, which we had to overcome. It has taken us many years to achieve this, but I am happy to mention that we are now close to 90% of the total requirement under this consolidation. Many other similar companies have been attempting this but have not reached to such levels of competitive pricing and such superior win-win arrangements.

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Pratibha Nath

Pratibha Nath, Director – Supply Chain, Alstom: There are so many projects that it is very difficult to choose one. All the projects that I have been associated with so far are dear to me… it could be building an organization or a project for driving efficiency. Some of the passion projects managed successfully are –

  • Driving the best-in-class inventory turns to hit 51 turns
  • Leading a project for revamping the entire bulk drug plant within a time bound period of 3-month plant shutdown
  • Developing a configuration centre in India for healthcare devices
  • Creating a new Business service organization, etc.

Currently I am leading many transformative projects, which keep me highly motivated and excited.

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Somnath Chatterjee,

Somnath Chatterjee, Executive Vice President – Head of Procurement & Logistics (Foods Division), ITC Ltd.: One of my most rewarding passion projects has been transforming the ITC procurement team into a more agile, data-driven, and strategically aligned function. When I joined, I identified areas where technology, analytics, and collaborative approaches could significantly enhance our efficiency and decision-making.

We introduced data analytics to gain real-time insights into market trends, weather patterns, and supply chain risks, which enabled us to make more informed purchasing decisions. I work closely with the team to streamline processes, foster a culture of ownership and innovation, and align our objectives with the company’s sustainability goals.

By integrating these changes, we not only improved operational efficiency but also built a team that was proactive, resilient, and equipped to handle the complexities of modern supply chain challenges. Seeing the team grow in confidence and capability has been a truly fulfilling experience, and it continues to inspire my efforts in leadership and procurement transformation.

Sukanta Das, President & Chief Logistics Officer, Hindalco Industries: It’s always the current or the ongoing project which I feel passionately excited about, so that I can cherish its successes later. Currently I am working on the project of greener & sustainable logistics at Hindalco.

How do you unwind yourself after a tough day @ work?

Anil Tomar: Unwinding for me is about combining relaxation with learning and reflection. I enjoy strength training, reading, and watching geopolitical discussions, business case studies, or interviews with business leaders to gain fresh perspectives. Engaging in household chores, such as ironing my clothes or vacuum cleaning, also serves as a simple yet effective way to relax and clear my mind.

Bheem Manthale: I practice medication and deep breathing, which helps me to improve my focus, calm my mind, help me to concentrate better and reduce stress. I also enjoy reading and listening to music helps me to ease out stress.

Nilanjan Das: I try to catch up on pending emails after working hours and /or spend time with family. In the morning, I do my brisk walk around the campus or lake while listening to my favourite music. That helps me relax and rejuvenate for the next day ahead.

Pratibha Nath: I enjoy watching movies on Netflix. I am big fan of K-Drama and language is no barrier as long as there are subtitles in English. I enjoy all genre – Action, Comedy, Drama, Thrillers, Romance, Sci-fi.

Sukanta Das: I generally drive to work; it offers a rare kind of solitude, giving me the space to reflect, process thoughts, and recharge away from the usual distractions. I feel that the rhythmic nature of driving, especially when you’re on a familiar route, can be quite meditative – helping you clear your mind and focus on what really matters.

Somnath Chatterjee: A brisk walk outdoors, especially in a serene setting, helps me clear my thoughts and reconnect with nature. On some days, I indulge in a creative activity like journaling or revisiting favourite music. Quality time with family and close friends also plays a vital role in grounding me, offering laughter and emotional support. When the day has been particularly tough, I reflect on the positives, practice gratitude, and remind myself of the bigger picture—it always helps me regain balance and move forward.

Unwinding for me means stepping away from the noise and diving into something meaningful or uplifting. Watching movies is a way to relax, I enjoy watching films with powerful stories that remind me of resilience, hope, and the triumph of the human spirit—stories that stick with you long after the credits roll.

Books are another great escape, especially ones that challenge my perspective or offer practical wisdom. When I need to clear my head, a brisk walk or some time alone with good music works wonders. Tough days call for a dose of reflection, gratitude, and, sometimes, just zoning out with family or friends. It’s not about doing anything fancy—it’s about resetting so I can take on the next day with clarity and energy.

How do you manage the pressures and the challenges that come with the job?

Anil Tomar: I see every challenge as an opportunity to grow and improve. Pressure, when managed well, sharpens focus and drives results. I handle it by staying calm, prioritizing tasks, and breaking challenges into manageable parts. Building trust within the team is crucial—it ensures collaboration and support during tough times.

I believe that the absence of challenge and pressure often indicates that we are either not ambitious enough or not moving in the right direction, potentially leaving us vulnerable to unpleasant surprises. Pressure is a natural companion to growth and progress, and by maintaining a clear vision, leveraging technology, and fostering collaboration, I turn it into a motivator that drives success rather than a barrier.

Bheem Manthale: I believe managing pressure and challenges at work is essential for maintaining well-being and productivity. I mainly prepare to-do list to prioritize tasks based on the level of urgency and importance. I break larger projects into smaller and manageable steps. I use the time management well so that I set specific time for tasks and take regular breaks to maintain the focus and prevent burnout. I clearly set boundaries, and one must learn to say no when necessary to protect my time and energy. I also practice mindfulness, incorporate the mindfulness techniques such as meditation and deep breathing. I don’t hesitate to ask for help from my mentors and share concerns to get new perspectives and solutions.

Nilanjan Das: The success lies in not coming under pressure. I break down every challenging task into smaller meaningful steps and get facts ready on them and then work systematically. Fact based approach makes all challenges look far more doable.

Pratibha Nath: If you enjoy what you do, the pressures and challenges are not negatives but something that keeps you on your toes. A long walk and self-talk keep me sorted.

Sukanta Das: Challenges excite me; when you view challenges as opportunities for growth and problem-solving, it makes the process not only more enjoyable but also more rewarding. The sense of accomplishment you get from overcoming obstacles becomes part of the excitement itself.

Somnath Chatterjee: Managing pressure requires a methodical approach that ensures I stay calm and focused even in the most demanding situations. I begin by breaking down large challenges into smaller, more manageable tasks, which allows me to focus on one step at a time rather than feeling overwhelmed. Prioritizing these tasks based on their potential impact and urgency ensures that I’m addressing the most critical issues first while maintaining momentum on others.

A key part of this process is leveraging the collective strength of my team. By tapping into their expertise and encouraging open communication, I make sure that solutions are collaborative, diverse, and well-informed. This not only strengthens the decision-making process but also ensures that no challenge feels insurmountable. In tough situations, I also rely on mental resilience, built through consistent mindfulness practices and a solid support system, which helps me stay grounded and clear-headed.

I’ve learned that staying focused on the bigger picture is crucial—when you keep sight of the long-term goals, it helps put short-term stressors into perspective. Additionally, celebrating small wins along the way boosts morale and keeps the team motivated, ensuring that we keep moving forward, even when the going gets tough. Through this combination of strategic thinking, teamwork, and mental fortitude, I’ve been able to manage pressure effectively and lead with confidence, no matter the challenge at hand.

What’s your Success Mantra?

Anil Tomar: I believe the customer and the community we serve must be at the center of everything we do, ensuring that our actions create meaningful impact. My success mantra is built on Energy, Commitment, Hard Work, Focus, Continuous Learning, and a Positive Outlook. I emphasize balancing short-term priorities with long-term goals and strengthening the core while exploring new opportunities to drive innovation and resilience. Seamlessly integrating strategic vision with tactical execution, I prioritize building trust and fostering the speed of trust, which accelerates decision-making, enhances collaboration, and ensures sustainable success.

Bheem Manthale: Hard work, continuous learning, adopting new technology, speed and accuracy in decision making and ability to learn from failures and bounce back, inclusiveness, ability to articulate bigger picture and positivity & optimism while dealing with unknown.

Nilanjan Das: My Success Mantra is to grow and outperform. Take stretch targets and work systematically towards them. Unless the targets are really stretched, the best does not come out. To take things to the next level, aggressive goal setting is the key , even if actual results fall slightly short of them. One will find far better results compared to the past and others with this approach.

Pratibha Nath: Be curious, keep learning, enjoy what you do and give not just 100% but more.

Sukanta Das: Rather than working with passion, I work for my passion; I feel, it’s always how you create the conditions for your passion to thrive, rather than letting your passion alone fuel the work. When you align your efforts with your passion, it becomes easier to give your best and stay committed to long-term success.

Somnath Chatterjee: My success mantra is straightforward: “Face it head-on, embrace change, and keep learning.” The business world is constantly evolving, and the only way to thrive is to confront challenges directly, without hesitation. I’ve found that facing tough situations head-on, rather than avoiding or delaying them, allows me to take control and steer them toward positive outcomes. Being adaptable is crucial because change is inevitable, but it’s how we respond to it that truly determines success.

Alongside adaptability, I firmly believe in the power of persistence. Every challenge is an opportunity in disguise, and the key is not to shy away from them but to tackle them as stepping stones for growth. There’s no shortcut to success, and the ability to keep moving forward, even when faced with adversity, is what separates those who succeed from those who falter.

At the core of everything I do is integrity. I’ve learned that while achieving success is important, doing so without compromising values is even more so. Success built on a foundation of strong principles is lasting, while anything less is fleeting. I take pride in ensuring that my decisions, both personal and professional, are guided by a clear sense of responsibility and ethics.

What’s your Leadership Style?

Anil Tomar: My leadership style is centered on inclusivity, high performance, and collaboration, with a strong focus on building a team culture that thrives on energy, challenging the status quo, and always putting the customer first. I also practice situational leadership, adapting my approach based on the needs of the team and the situation. Whether it’s providing hands-on support, empowering team members to take ownership, or offering guidance during critical moments, I believe flexibility is key to effective leadership. By fostering a culture of trust, accountability, and innovation, I aim to inspire and enable the team to consistently deliver their best.

Nilanjan Das: My approach is to allow employees to try their best, learn from their mistakes and improve, but never repeat the same mistake again. The constant urge to become better and better than before and to keep trying is the way to enthuse people towards greater goals.

Pratibha Nath: My leadership style is transformational and authoritative, which involves mobilising and inspiring the team towards a common goal or vision.

Sukanta Das: My style has always been of a coach, which is to mentor & monitor. It has been an effective approach that fosters growth and accountability.

Somnath Chatterjee: My leadership style is rooted in collaboration and empowerment, with a clear focus on building a team strong enough to handle any challenge that comes our way. I believe that true leadership lies in developing individuals who can stand on their own, take initiative, and tackle problems with confidence. I create an environment where trust, transparency, and open communication are at the forefront—ensuring that every team member feels valued, heard, and supported.

Rather than micromanaging, I set clear expectations and encourage autonomy, allowing my team to take ownership of their work and make decisions with the confidence that they have my support. This not only fosters accountability but also empowers them to grow and excel in their roles. My approach is to lead by example—staying approachable, listening actively, and offering guidance, when necessary, but always giving my team the space and freedom to shine in their unique areas of strength.

Ultimately, my goal as a leader is to ensure that my team is not just capable of meeting expectations but is resilient and adaptable enough to face any challenge head-on. By instilling a sense of ownership, nurturing talent, and reinforcing a culture of continuous learning, I believe we create a team that’s not only equipped to handle today’s challenges but is also prepared for whatever comes next.

One tip to Survive & Sustain in the unforeseen situations / your advice to Next Gen Supply Chain professionals…

Anil Tomar: In unforeseen situations, adaptability, resilience, and impact-oriented thinking are crucial. Embrace change not as a setback but as an opportunity to innovate and grow. Learn the art of getting things done and build trust—these are the foundations for navigating challenges effectively.

Draw lessons from the past, but don’t rely on copy-paste solutions. Instead, focus on anticipating future mega trends, developing new-age skills, and addressing unprecedented challenges with creative, forward-thinking approaches. Use technology as an enabler and approach every assignment with a mindset of innovation and excellence. Avoid dwelling on constraints—channel your energy into creating positive, long-term impact for the organization by staying proactive, prepared, and solutions-driven.

Bheem Manthale: I think it is very important to embrace aspects such as adaptability, cultivating a mindset of flexibility and openness to change for surviving and sustaining in unforeseen situations. This means willing to reassess your plans, pivot when necessary and approach the challenges with problem solving attitude by staying adaptable. By doing this, you are better equipped to navigate uncertainty and find creative solutions to unexpected obstacles. Besides one must showcase integrity in doing right thing no matter what. They must possess courage to take up the right issues, have the utmost conviction and monomaniacal focus on the tasks to be achieved. Leaders must have a growth mindset when it comes to either a project or team or yourself. Leaders must be adaptable, nimble, have broad perspective, showcase speed of execution, and relentless determination. They must value differences among the team, pursue and reinforce collaboration, hold self and others accountable for any mistake, and should have a keen sense of priorities.

Nilanjan Das: Almost everything in supply chain is unforeseen. While past trend based planning is done, it is the ability to sense the future turn of events with a combination of data based analysis as well as intuition, that will make one successful in any unforeseen situation in the supply chain.

Pratibha Nath: As you know, supply chain professionals need to be a bit paranoid to navigate the various situations and challenges that get thrown at them every day. The sense of paranoia helps you start building your plan A/B/C/D, so that you are never caught off guard. Use data and not emotions to take decisions.

Sukanta Das: By remaining flexible, staying informed, and continually refining your skills, you cannot only survive but thrive in unpredictable environments. I feel the ability to turn challenges into growth opportunities will define success for the next generation of supply chain professionals.

Somnath ChatterjeeThe best advice I can offer is to cultivate adaptability, curiosity, and resilience in the face of constant change. Unforeseen situations, such as market disruptions or climate challenges, require a mindset that is flexible, open to creative problem-solving, and quick to pivot when necessary. In today’s world, change is the only constant—whether it's technological advancements, environmental shifts, or evolving market dynamics. Developing the ability to embrace uncertainty and learn from each experience ensures that you can turn challenges into opportunities.

Building strong networks is equally crucial. Collaboration often unlocks innovative solutions that you might not have thought of alone. A robust network of diverse thinkers, experts, and stakeholders can provide insights, alternative perspectives, and access to resources that make overcoming obstacles easier. In our interconnected world, no one succeeds in isolation.

Furthermore, investing in a deep understanding of the fundamentals of your domain, while staying ahead of emerging trends, is vital for sustained success. This includes being aware of global challenges like climate change and environmental sustainability, which are increasingly affecting supply chains, resource availability, and business practices. The combination of solid foundational knowledge, the ability to adapt to new technologies, and an understanding of these larger issues allows you to build strategies that are both resilient and forward-thinking. Success today is about balancing innovation with responsibility, and the most effective leaders will be those who navigate complexity with insight, agility, and a commitment to long-term sustainability.

A book that has helped you at work

Anil Tomar: ‘The First 90 Days’ by Michael Watkins has been instrumental in shaping my approach to transitions, enabling me to drive impact quickly in new roles. Additionally, ‘CEO Excellence’ by Carolyn Dewar, Scott Keller, and Vikram Malhotra has provided invaluable insights into leadership principles and practices that drive outstanding organizational performance.

Bheem Manthale: The book ‘The Leadership Pipeline’ by Ram Charan has really helped create a bunch of leaders who are ready to take on new challenges and be there when organization needs them.

Pratibha Nath: GOAL by Eliyahu M Goldratt.

Sukanta Das: I am not a book reader; I like to learn from my own and others’ experiences. To me, learning from personal experiences and the experiences of others are often more impactful than reading theoretical concepts in books. It allows me to apply knowledge directly to real-world situations, adapt it to my context, and see immediate results.

Somnath Chatterjee: ‘Future Shock’ by Alvin Toffler and ‘Factfulness’ by Hans Rosling have been fundamental in shaping my approach to decision-making, especially in the face of uncertainty and rapid change. Toffler's analysis of the accelerating pace of change in society resonated deeply with me, especially his argument that we are often overwhelmed by the speed of transformation, leading to a sense of disorientation. He emphasizes the importance of questioning every assumption and adapting continuously to new realities. This insight has been pivotal in how I approach business—recognizing that the world is constantly shifting and that staying rigid or relying on outdated assumptions will only UP, CLOSE AND PERSONAL 26 CELERITY January 2025

lead to stagnation. Toffler taught me to embrace change, not as a threat, but as an opportunity for growth and innovation.

Similarly, Factfulness by Hans Rosling challenges the biases and misconceptions we all carry, often about global issues and trends. Rosling’s data-driven approach shows how our perceptions of the world are often distorted, shaped by fear, sensationalism, or outdated information. The book made me realize how crucial it is to question assumptions, especially in a fast-paced, data-heavy environment. Instead of acting on gut feelings or popular myths, I’ve learned to rely on facts and take a step back to view the bigger picture. Rosling’s emphasis on looking at the world through a lens of data and reality, rather than perception, has greatly influenced my approach to both strategic planning and day-to-day decision-making.

Both books have reinforced the idea that critical thinking and adaptability are essential, especially in today’s world where change is constant, and challenges are ever-evolving. I’ve come to understand that thriving in business isn’t just about reacting to the present but about anticipating the future by questioning established beliefs, relying on facts, and staying open to new ways of thinking. These insights have helped me guide my teams with more clarity, making informed decisions that are grounded in reality, while remaining flexible enough to pivot as needed in the face of change.

A book that you can read any number of times or a movie you can watch any time.

Anil Tomar: ‘Good to Great’ by Jim Collins is a book I can revisit repeatedly for its timeless lessons on building enduring companies. Similarly, the biography of Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson and the movie ‘Steve Jobs’ are constant sources of inspiration, offering deep insights into innovation, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence.

Bheem Manthale: My favourite books are “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There’ by Marshall Goldsmith and ‘The Wings of Fire’ by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.

Pratibha Nath: I have many… Crash landing on you – K-Drama, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, Enid Blyton books (Malory Towers, St Claires, Famous five and the list goes on…)

Somnath Chatterjee: The James Bond films highlight some important qualities that resonate with me, especially in the context of leadership and decision-making. One of the standout aspects is Bond’s unwavering confidence and the way he handles high-pressure situations. It’s not just about being physically tough or skilled; it’s his ability to stay calm, analyse a situation, and make the right call when everything seems to be falling apart. In business, there are moments when the stakes feel just as high, and staying level-headed, even in chaos, is crucial.

Another thing I admire is Bond’s adaptability. Each mission is different, presenting new challenges, and Bond always adjusts his approach. Whether it’s utilizing the right technology or recalibrating his strategy based on unexpected twists, the ability to pivot is something I think about often. It’s a constant reminder that success doesn’t come from sticking to a rigid plan, but from being able to adapt to changing circumstances while keeping an eye on the ultimate goal.

Bond also embodies resilience. No matter how many setbacks or personal losses he faces, he always pushes forward. Whether it's facing betrayals, difficult odds, or his own doubts, he never loses sight of the mission. That persistence and ability to overcome adversity is something that speaks to me deeply. In our professional lives, we are bound to encounter challenges, but it's the ability to keep going despite the odds that sets high achievers apart.

Overall, there’s so much to learn from the way Bond handles the many hurdles he faces—not just in terms of action, but in his mindset and approach to obstacles. Whether it’s staying calm under pressure, adapting to new situations, or bouncing back from failure, these lessons are universally applicable in both life and leadership.

What is the best and worst advice you have received?

Anil Tomar: Best advice: “Value your time—it’s your most precious resource.” Set a high imaginary hourly rate for yourself, focus on high-leverage activities, and avoid spending time on tasks that don’t align with your goals and organization’s objectives. Worst advice: “Stick to the way things have always been done.” Staying stagnant is the surest way to lose relevance.

Bheem Manthale: Best advice: ‘Focus on the things which you can control/influence.’ This advice has really helped in my professional journey and has emphasized the importance of directing my energy towards aspects of the life, which I can control, and influence rather than stressing over the things beyond my control. It has encouraged me towards proactive approach and helped me to reduce the anxiety and improve my speed and accuracy of decision making.

Nilanjan Das: Best advice received has been ‘Don’t look for perfection in everything’. This has led to improved ability to perform, reduced the stress, and improved the focus on the goal and its intermediate steps, rather than get too much entangled in the perfection of the plan towards it. Worst advice has been ‘Don’t go too much into details. The best strategy and execution come out of detailed fact-based analysis. It is time tested. While intuition and maverick styles may work, but without the attention to details, no worthwhile result is achieved.

Pratibha Nath: It is up to the receiver as to how you take advice. So, there is nothing like the best or the worst advice. It depends on the situation and the understanding of the advisor. Normally the advisor has your best interest at heart.

Sukanta Das: One advice I used to often receive at my profession initially was ‘Don’t take it personally’. I think this works worst with me, as I feel that if I don’t take it personally, I won’t give my best.

Somnath Chatterjee: Best Advice: “Focus on building relationships; they’re the foundation of long-term success.” This advice has been invaluable in both my professional and personal life. Building strong, authentic connections with colleagues, mentors, and partners opens doors that you might not even realize are there. It fosters an environment of collaboration, trust, and mutual support, which is essential when navigating challenges. Relationships create opportunities for learning and growth, and often it’s through these connections that innovative ideas and solutions emerge. In the end, it’s not just the technical skills or experience that help you succeed—it’s the people you surround yourself with and the trust you cultivate over time. Relationships truly form the backbone of long-term success.

Worst Advice: “Play it safe and stick to what you know.” While this advice may come from a place of caution, it fails to take into account the value of growth and innovation. Growth only happens when we step outside our comfort zones and challenge ourselves to embrace new ideas and risks. Sticking to what we know may offer short-term stability, but it often limits the potential for breakthrough ideas and progress. In my experience, taking calculated risks, learning from failures, and continuously seeking new challenges has been the key to personal and professional development. While it’s important to be strategic and thoughtful in decision-making, true growth and success come from the willingness to push boundaries and evolve.

What’s the best way to build a high-performing team?

Anil Tomar: Building a high-performing team starts with establishing a clear, shared vision that aligns and motivates everyone toward a common goal. Such teams thrive on diversity of skills, perspectives, and experiences, which fuel innovation and effective problem-solving. Trust and accountability are essential, but so are interdependence and collaboration—ensuring that team members not only excel individually but also rely on and elevate each other to achieve collective success.

As a leader, I focus on empowering the team by removing obstacles, providing the right resources, and creating opportunities for development. I encourage open communication and feedback to foster transparency and continuous improvement. By celebrating successes, learning from failures, and leading by example with commitment and adaptability, I create an environment where individuals feel valued, challenged, and supported. High-performing teams are built on alignment, empowerment, interdependence, and a culture that prioritizes collaboration and shared ownership of results.

Bheem Manthale: I think best way to build a high performing team involves the several steps including…

  • Setting Clear Goals and Vision: Establishing the shared vision and specific measurable goals to align the teams’ efforts and motivation, building culture of helping each other to excel.
  • Open communication: Leaders must create environment where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas, feedback, and concerns, regular check-ins and open-door policies can help.
  • Diversity and INCLUSION: Encourage diverse perspectives by assembling the team with varied backgrounds and skills. This will enhance creativity and problem-solving approach.
  • Trust and RESPECT: Build trust among team members though transparency and accountability. Celebrate successes and recognize individual contributions.
  • Defined ROLES and RESPONSIBILITIES: Clearly outline each team member’s role to ensure everyone understands their contributions and responsibilities.
  • Collaboration and TEAMWORK: Promote collaboration through team building activities and joint projects to strengthen relationship and improve synergy.
  • Continuous LEARNING and DEVELOPMENT: Invest in training and development opportunities to help team members grow their skills and adapt to changing demands.
  • Recognition and Rewards: Acknowledge achievements and provide incentives to motivate the team and reinforce positive behaviours.
  • Empowerment: Encourage autonomy by giving team members the authority to make decisions in the area of their expertise. Foster ownership and accountability, cultivate a culture that embraces change and innovation, allowing the team to pivot and respond effectively to new challenges.

Nilanjan Das: First is to position the right people with correct achievement orientation. Thereafter present a clear agenda and path on what has to be achieved and even show/suggest how. Inspire the people that they can do it, and review periodically for mid-course corrections. Celebrate success and show appreciation for the ‘doers’. This merit based culture at every step, helps build teams which will always invariably perform.

Pratibha Nath: Be involved, be a motivator, keep challenging the team to become better versions of themselves.

Sukanta Das: Building a high-performing logistics team is about more than just operational efficiency—it’s about creating an environment where team members feel supported, valued, and empowered to perform at their best.

Somnath Chatterjee: Building a high-performing team begins with a compelling and clear vision that inspires and aligns both individual and collective goals. It's crucial to understand each team member's unique strengths and talents, ensuring they feel valued and connected to a greater purpose. Empowering individuals to take ownership of their roles creates a strong sense of responsibility and belonging, driving motivation. Open, transparent communication is key, fostering an environment where feedback is not only welcomed but actively sought. Recognition for achievements, big and small, reinforces a culture of appreciation and trust.

A high-performing team also thrives on a culture of continuous learning and growth. Encouraging development opportunities and the sharing of knowledge ensures that the team is always evolving and adapting to meet new challenges. This dynamic approach keeps the team agile, engaged, and forward-thinking.

At the core of it all, trust and empathy are paramount. Creating a space where individuals feel heard, respected, and supported strengthens the bonds within the team. When each member shares a commitment to excellence and the success of the team, the collective potential becomes limitless. A high-performing team is one where collaboration, respect, and a shared vision fuel continuous success.

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