Making A Smart Case Bridging - Connectivity & IQ - Dream Theatre
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
VIEW FROM THE TOP
MARCH 2018 VOLUME 6 ISSUE 12 `200
Bridging
Connectivity
& IQ
Art in Motion
by Ralfonso
The Air
Cab
Making A
Smart Case
Ramesh & Anushree Tainwala
SAMSONITE
“Work-life balance is not something
we find,
it's something
we create.
Let us create it, together.”
In our endeavour to get CEOs to live a life beyond the boardroom,
we at CEO Lounge, get them together to make some memories, fun
and of course have a great time.
Relive your passion, rekindle old memories and do something
you've been wanting to do.
At CEO Lounge, it is all about 'you' and 'your time'.
Driving lifestyles forward with our
various engagement platforms
For more information on our engagements please write to:
deepak@ceolounge.net
CONTENTS
March 2018
44
80
Unique Sea Escapes
46 44 Getting Things Done
How to identify leaders
who get things done
even when faced with
steep odds
46 The John Cooper
Works Package
A special project by Mini
18 Carrying On The Luggage Legacy Samsonite
International S.A. Chief Executive Ramesh Tainwala and
his daughter Anushree Tainwala, Executive Director
Marketing, Samsonite South Asia share their beginnings,
life, brand vision, and other interests with us...
Interview
18
Photograph: Sachin Ruhil
62 The Big World of Licensing
A quick guide to branded merchandising 72
2 DAYS OF ADRENALINE RUSH | 40 CEOs DRIVE TO WIN
52 COMING SOON
72 Not Just Sushi
The art of Japanese cuisine
deepak@ceolounge.net
62 52 Killer Workout
Knowing when to pause and take a break
6 | MARCH 2018
NEW HOTELS
log on to www.ceolounge.net
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
Deepak Yadav
Publishing Director
Raju Sarin
raju@ceolounge.net
EDITOR
Hari Govind Nair
DEPUTY EDITOR
Amit Ranjan Rai
ART DIRECTOR
Sachin Ruhil
CONTRIBUTORS
Jayakrishanan Nair, Saurabh Sinha
Four Seasons Desroches Island Mahé island. A highlight of any stay
is surely dinner amid the panoramic ADVERTISING
Afloat in crystal clear waters in the views at the remote Lighthouse on Deepak: 91 9818706321
Outer Islands of Seychelles and the southern tip of Desroches Island,
seemingly worlds away from everyday where the evening may begin with For Enquiry
noise, stress and obligation, the new drinks at the circular bar terrace on contact@ceolounge.net
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at the first floor. Then head downstairs to
Desroches Island – the only resort on the main restaurant for dining indoors PRINTED AT
EIH Limited – Unit Printing Press
Pie-Charts
the entire island – is the quintessential or out on the lawn terrace, where
tropical escape, while also providing freshly grilled or cooked meat and fish
RNI NO. DELENG/2012/42931
every modern comfort and luxury, – plus a seafood raw bar - is prepared
and plenty to discover for today’s under the watchful eye of Head Chef
E-MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION
active travellers. sprawling over the Olivier Barré and his brigade. Chef http://www.magzter.com/IN/Imagine-
southwestern portion of a 933 acre, Barré, an avid fisherman, also invites Media-amp-Lifestyle-Pvt-Ltd./CEO-
pies and tarts
sparsely populated and virtually guests to join him in catching their India/Business/
untouched, this tropical paradise own fresh seafood, which he will
is just 35 minutes by a scenic flight prepare for them personally to enjoy Printed, published and owned by
from the international airport on later that day. Deepak Yadav. Published at G-1/27,
Uttam Nagar, New Delhi -110059,
Printed at EIH Limited – Unit Printing
Press, Plot No–22, Sec- 5, IMT
Manesar, Gurgaon, Haryana-122050.
Editor: Deepak Yadav.
We stand indemnified against any claims Register with your spouse today and sharpen your
arising directly or indirectly from the culinary skills to win the 'CEO Master Chef'.
publication or non-publication of an
advertisement. No part of this magazine
may be reproduced without prior permission
of the publisher. All trademark and trade
names mentioned in this magazine belong
to their respective owners. CEO INDIA does
not take responsibility for printing unsolicited
publication material. All disputes are subject
to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent
courts and forums in Delhi/New Delhi only.
Opinions expressed in the articles are of the
authors and don’t necessarily reflect those of
the editor of CEO INDIA. While the editors do
their utmost to verify information published,
they do not accept the responsibility for its
absolute accuracy.
8 | MARCH 2018
M
uch has been written
and spoken about
how software-based
technology, data analytics
and connected devices can work
together to transform every aspect
of business. But now the process of
digital transformation is set to have an
enormous impact on our health and
fitness too. Not only will these advances
affect the quality of life for millions,
they could also have far-reaching
implications for the healthcare sector
and employers in general.
Ten ways
Improvements in medicine and
nutrition have helped life expectancies
increase throughout the last century.
But older populations are leading to
digital could
a greater incidence of degenerative
and lifestyle-related health issues.
These kinds of non-communicable
diseases already account for 75 per
transform
cent of deaths worldwide, according to
the World Health Organisation. Tens
of millions of people are suffering
from these diseases around the world,
greatly reducing their quality of life. The
HEALTHCARE
economic impact is similarly immense
— just five non-communicable diseases
could cost the global economy $47
trillion by 2030, according to the World
Economic Forum.
So what could digital
From genomics to telemedicine to 3D bioprinting, transformation do to make us
here are some technologies that could revolutionise healthier, and the health sector fitter?
an industry and make us all healthier Here are just some of the ways that
digital technologies could help us live
not just longer, but healthier and more
productive lives:
INSIGHT
1) GENOMICS responses of patients with similar DNA, media may become the feedback 7) GENETIC ENGINEERING Telecommunications Union, an agency researchers at the Wake Forest Institute
Increased computer processing power lifestyles and medical histories can mechanism that leads to continual While genetic engineering of human of the United Nations, there are more for Regenerative Medicine announced
is beginning to unlock the true potential allow us to truly understand health risks optimisation of health services. DNA to fight disease remains deeply than 7 billion mobile subscriptions that they have successfully implanted
of human DNA analysis — enabling truly and the impact of different treatments. controversial, gene therapy and the worldwide, up from 738 million in 3D printed bone, muscle and tissue
personalised testing and treatment that 6) DIGITAL TREND MONITORING use of genetically-modified viruses to 2000. Globally, 3.2 billion people are into animals. By using DNA analysis,
could vastly improve patient outcomes 4) ORGANS-ON-CHIPS By tracking keyword activity on social fight disease is becoming increasingly using the Internet, of which two billion we’re approaching the age of custom-
for a huge range of diseases. A combination of advances in DNA media and search engines, trends common. Genetically-modified live in developing countries. made replaceable body parts. It’s not
sequencing and stem cell research has towards searches for particular mosquitos are also being deployed in the This trend has enabled the just replacement — perhaps the future
2) WEARABLES enabled researchers to grow miniature medical symptoms are increasingly fight against malaria and the Zika virus. development of creative solutions may present us with the possibility of
Smart health monitors that can organs, based on patients’ own DNA. being used to help identify and that leverage the ability of connected customised body parts that could even
collect personalised, real-time data, Connected to electronic sensors, they respond to disease outbreaks. This 8) TELEMEDICINE technologies to reach people who improve functionality.
encouraging healthier lifestyles, and can measure response to treatment insight is of course beneficial to any Mobile technology is increasingly being would otherwise find it difficult to
collecting reams of data to feed into at a cellular level to understand which organisation in the health sector, used to reduce pressure on healthcare access healthcare information. WHAT DOES ALL THIS MEAN FOR
medical research. Some companies methods will have the most success but it can be useful for any employer systems by removing the need to EMPLOYERS?
have already introduced wearables into before applying them to the patient. seeking to keep their workforce travel to see a healthcare professional. 9) SURGICAL ROBOTS Providing for the healthcare needs of
the workplace to boost performance. healthy or well-staffed. For a large Any cut to travelling time in any As well as enabling more precise an older workforce will require new
By monitoring the stress levels and 5) SOCIAL MEDIA HOSPITAL REVIEWS employer, accurate interpretation environment has the potential to make surgery, which speeds up recovery time, solutions to keep down the cost of
health of their staff, companies can Healthcare providers and regulators of the data could lead to a range a positive impact on productivity. But the use of robotic surgical equipment accessing healthcare and to limit the
recommend healthier habits, often alike are increasingly using patient of possible preparations — from telemedicine is likely to have the most can enable specialist surgeons to lost productivity triggered by health
leading to higher productivity. reviews collected via social media or the ordering of more tissues for an transformative effect on more remote treat patients thousands of miles issues. Recent research in the Journal
digital surveys to identify potential outbreak of the common cold to hiring communities, where conducting away, reducing the need to travel for of Occupational and Environmental
3) BIG DATA USED IN MEDICINE issues and improve the quality of care. additional freelance staff to fill in for remote assessments of patients via treatment. In time, they may be able to Medicine even suggest that businesses
As more DNA gets analysed, wearables The immediacy of social media and employees who require sick leave. mobile phones is beginning to provide operate independently. with strong health and wellness
gather more lifestyle data, and medical its ability to spread both positive and When the algorithms predict these access to medicine for some of the programmes perform better than
records are digitized, much more negative messages so widely may see trends accurately, the impact can be world’s poorest people at a fraction 10) 3D BIOPRINTING those without.
detailed comparative patient analysis healthcare providers responding ever immense — but there are serious of the cost of providing roving doctor The ultimate medical dream has come
becomes possible. Comparing the faster to customer feedback. Social challenges to overcome. services. According to the International closer to reality — in February 2016, An EY report
12 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 13
CUTTING EDGE
BRIDGING
CONNECTIVITY & IQ
A NEW AND RELATIVELY SIMPLE TECHNIQUE FOR MAPPING THE WIRING OF
THE BRAIN HAS SHOWN A CORRELATION BETWEEN HOW WELL CONNECTED
AN INDIVIDUAL’S BRAIN REGIONS ARE AND THEIR INTELLIGENCE
14 |MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 15
CUTTING EDGE
I
n recent years, there has been a technique to give an even more precise higher order functions – such as problem upbringing, for example? And how do
concerted effort among scientists mapping of the human brain. solving and language – and intelligence. these connections strengthen or weaken
to map the connections in the brain A typical MRI scan will provide a “We saw a clear link between the across development?”
– the so-called ‘connectome’ – and single image of the brain, from which it is ‘hubbiness’ of higher-order brain regions “This could take us closer to being
to understand how this relates to human possible to calculate multiple structural – in other words, how densely connected able to get an idea of intelligence from
behaviours, such as intelligence and features of the brain. This means they were to the rest of the network – brain scans, rather than having to rely on
mental health disorders. that every region of the brain can be and an individual’s IQ,” explains PhD IQ tests,” says Professor Ed Bullmore,
Now, in research published in the described using as many as ten different candidate Jakob Seidlitz at the University Head of Psychiatry at Cambridge. “Our
journal Neuron, an international team characteristics. The researchers showed of Cambridge and NIH. “This makes new mapping technique could also help
led by scientists at the University of that if two regions have similar profiles, sense if you think of the hubs as enabling us understand how the symptoms of
Cambridge and the National Institutes then they are described as having the flow of information around the brain mental health disorders such as anxiety
of Health (NIH), USA, has shown that ‘morphometric similarity’ and it can – the stronger the connections, the better and depression or even schizophrenia
it is possible to build up a map of the be assumed that they are a connected the brain is at processing information.” arise from differences in connectivity
connectome by analysing conventional network. They verified this assumption While IQ varied across the within the brain.”
brain scans taken using a magnetic using publically-available MRI data on participants, the MSNs accounted The researcher of this study, Jakob
resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. a cohort of 31 juvenile rhesus macaque for around 40% of this variation – it is Seidlitz, is at PhD student on the NIH
The team compared the brains of monkeys to compare to ‘gold-standard’ possible that higher-resolution multi- Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Programme.
296 typically-developing adolescent connectivity estimates in that species. modal data provided by a 7T scanner may A graduate of the University of Rochester,
volunteers. Their results were then Using these morphometric similarity be able to account for an even greater USA, he spends half of his time in
validated in a cohort of a further 124 networks (MSNs), the researchers were proportion of the individual variation, says Cambridge and half at the National
volunteers. The team used a conventional able to build up a map showing how the researchers. Institutes of Health in the USA. Jakob’s
3T MRI scanner, where 3T represents the well connected the ‘hubs’ – the major “What this doesn’t tell us, though, is research aims to better understand the
strength of the magnetic field; however, connection points between different where exactly this variation comes from,” origins of psychiatric disease, using
Cambridge has recently installed a regions of the brain network – were. They adds Seidlitz. “What makes some brains techniques such as MRI to study child and
much more powerful Siemens 7T Terra found a link between the connectivity more connected than others – is it down adolescent brain development and map
MRI scanner, which should allow this in the MSNs in brain regions linked to to their genetics or their educational patterns of brain connectivity.
16 |MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 17
INTERVIEW
Carrying On The
Luggage Legacy
Samsonite International S.A. Chief Executive Ramesh Tainwala
and his daughter Anushree Tainwala, Executive Director
Marketing, Samsonite South Asia share their beginnings, life,
brand vision, and other interests with us...
Words by KANIKA DHAWAN | Photographs by SACHIN RUHIL
I
t’s a bright, sunny day at Igatpuri, “Look at that plant in the distance especially because of his headmaster
Nashik. Ramesh Tainwala is — it’s the Odomos plant from Mizoram. KK Singh who was “like a father” to
busy tending to his garden at his I have planted it to ward off mosquitoes him. In 1976, he joined the prestigious
sprawling and earthy bungalow — a and other insects,” he says. His BITS Pilani to pursue industrial
plot of land he bought 15 years back enthusiasm is infectious and childlike. engineering. “I had got selected in
and took five years to build. Tainwala For Samsonite’s Chief Executive, the NDA but decided not to join the Army
— a certified phytophile — and his humble Citronella or Odomos plant is because of a family situation. I still
gardener move with equal enthusiasm worthy enough of invoking such real have the joining warrant, as it still
while carefully examining the plants emotions, something we can attribute remains an unfulfilled dream.” By his
and trees that occupy a chunk of to his humble beginnings in erstwhile third year, Tainwala armed with an
space at the bungalow. For Tainwala, Bihar — Jharkhand. His ancestors eight-point score applied to specialise
these aren’t simple flora. They are a hailed from Rajasthan and lived in in mechanical engineering but opted
collectors’ item, labour of love and an Myanmar over many generations. for Master of Management Studies
extraordinary hobby. He prides himself “They probably went to live in Burma serendipitously. He passed out from
with the 112 global varieties of mangoes with the British, returned to India as business school with the second —
like Miyazaki from Japan, Sweet refugees and settled in Ranchi. That’s highest score and some very surprised
Elena from the Philippines, Madame why I think of myself from Bihar,” professors, who thought he was better
Francique from Haiti and Criollo from shares Tainwala. off doing engineering. But that’s not
Peru, which grace his garden that His father ran a kirana shop in his style.
has beautifully been landscaped with Ranchi and his housewife mother He is inquisitive, open to change
arches, bridges, a tree house and a took care of the other siblings. After and a person who knows how to dig
lovely pond full of big, orange Koi fish. I finishing schooling from a boarding beneath his own feet to create value
spot a Red-Veined Darter or dragonfly that trained children to join the Army, in any situation. At BITS, when he
fluttering over the lotus and realise how near home, he headed to BITS Pilani. felt short-changed because of poor
rare is the foliage that Tainwala has For Tainwala, school was his first English, he decided to stand for
planted with so much care. home and had a lasting impact on him elections, not only for himself but for
18 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 19INTERVIEW
all the Hindi speaking and thinking
students. “We always felt out of place
and were constantly conscious of our
Bihari roots. I wanted to change that.”
And he did so by winning the election
for the first two years. Even though
his grades took a beating but Tainwala
wasn’t going to back down. He worked
hard to get his grades back on track,
and bring about a change in the
campus environment.
When it was time to start making
a living, Tainwala applied to Asian
Paints and luggage maker VIP
Industries — two companies that were
always the centre of discussion at his
management school. Unfortunately,
he was selected by neither but he
remained undeterred — true to his
perseverant persona. “Recently, I
met Dilip Piramal [of VIP] and he
said it’s good we didn’t select you.
Otherwise you wouldn’t have become
the chief executive that you are,” he
shares jokingly. Thereafter, he started
working with a distant friend of his
father’s — Kamal Kumar Agarwal,
a plastic commodity trader, following
which he set up Tainwala Trading to
become a commodity trader himself
and a key vendor to companies like
Asian paints, VIP, Kelvinator, Godrej,
Safari, etc. In 1985, he set up Tainwala
Chemicals and started manufacturing
plastic sheets that are used in making
suitcases.
In 1994, when Samsonite wanted
to enter India, Tainwala hosted
the then chief executive officer
of Samsonite International SA —
Luc Van Nevel. One night, at the
newly-opened The Leela, Mumbai,
a partially-drunk and frustrated
Nevel asked Tainwala if he would
like to become his partner. Nevel
had been scouting for a “reliable
partner” but his search had been in
total vain. Obviously, Tainwala didn’t
pay much heed to this offer that
was put forth to him in a state of
inebriation. After a few days, Marc
Matton, Vice President Marketing
and Sales at Samsonite Europe NV,
called Tainwala and asked him to
come to Belgium to discuss the offer.
After a lot of discussion and thought,
he and Samsonite entered into a
partnership, which continues to date
with Tainwala taking care of a bigger
20 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 21INTERVIEW
portfolio of operations and countries lost all its capital, and the sales were efficient airlines, reduced airfare, and
for the brand. less than the salary they had to pay. changing consumer tastes have greatly
After joining Samsonite, Tainwala At this time, Luc Van Nevel reassured contributed to Samonite’s growth
put his heart and soul in the business Tainwala with his years of experience and Tainwala envisages it to become
of making baggage. Even though his and market expertise that, “it takes a a, “10-billion dollar company in the
own business started floundering, long time to build business.” It took future.” Today Asia is Samsonite’s
Samsonite that gave him a bigger eight years for Samonite to break even single largest business. Out of the
canvas became the centre of his in India, and that was just the start. `5,000-crore luggage market in India,
business life. Based on the 108-year- “We are one of the very few Samsonite owns 40 per cent of the 60
old brand’s Biblical and core tenet to companies that continue to do the per cent organised market share.
“Do unto others as you would have same business even after 100 years; Also, the growing clamour for
them do unto you,” Tainwala plunged Samsonite was founded in 1910 by lightweight, durable and easily-mobile
himself into the India unit. “Luc is my the Schwayder brothers in Denver,” baggage and their scale gives the brand
godfather. He taught me to always be he beams. Today, Tainwala has a huge advantage over others. They also
good to people. He told me you must transformed the company from a spend a whopping 100 million dollars
never be in a situation that you feel single brand to a multi-brand company on research and development, which
embarrassed to meet somebody you selling different products at different is more than the global turnover of
know,” he shares. price points to a range of target many companies. Samsonite recently
The first three years were most audiences. launched its 2.2 kg-liteshock collection.
trying for Tainwala as the company had Of course, budget and fuel- Interestingly, the R&D department has
Luc is my godfather. He taught me to always be good
to people. He told me you must never be in a situation
that you feel embarrassed to meet somebody you know."
Ramesh Tainwala plays a game of cards with his lovely daughter Anushree and dear wife, Shobha
24 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 25INTERVIEW
now been bequeathed with the task of more important, than making the right When she’s not devising marketing
coming up with a luggage that’s less decision. You need to decide, experiment, strategies and interacting with her team,
than two kgs! learn from it and move on. I think the only Anushree dives into books and reads in
With brands like Tumi, American reason we can work together is because her free time. She also combines her
Tourister, Hartmann, High Sierra, he isn’t involved in the everyday running zest for nature and travel by visiting
Gregory, Speck, Lipault and Kamiliant in India and works out of a different beautiful places. Some of her recent
in its kitty, Samsonite ensures each of country, and also because I have a buffer trips include Patagonia, Ranthambore
its brand remains true to its DNA. For person in between.” and the Arctic Circle forests in Sweden.
example, Tumi for Tainwala is the gold There is a great bond of trust Since she dislikes noisy places, the
standard of luggage, designed for people between dad and daughter. “Every lush Nashik house often proves to be a
who want top-class quality. American time I’m unable to make a decision happy and quiet getaway. A lot of credit
Tourister is a brand that connects well or weighing two very difficult options for the greenery around Nashik can be
with the millennial because they are or when it involves making a choice given to Samsonite because they have
looking for cool and reliable luggage. between work and family I turn to my planted close to three lakh trees in the
Off late, American Tourister that father to talk things through because I last eight years; villagers, students,
is helmed by Anushree Tainwala has know he will give me unbiased advice. employees, suppliers and government
signed Virat Kohli and Christiano My dad turns to me too especially when institutions have also joined hands with
Ronaldo as its Indian and global brand it comes to new marketing and product them to support the cause. Tainwala is
ambassadors. Having studied at Harvard ideas that he is thinking of,” she says. also working to make Samsonite carbon-
Business School and Cambridge, the Apart from her forthright father, neutral by 2030 and by June, this year, the
petite and pretty Anushree is equally Anushree who is married to Karan Nashik plant will generate its own energy!
passionate and prepared like her father. Maheshwari has her mother Shobha At the Igatpuri residence, precious
Growing up in Mumbai in a large joint and brother Ayush (Executive Director, Tanjore paintings, Buddhist thangkas
family with 10 cousins, lots of family Bagzone Lifestyle Pvt Ltd) by her side. and cute art by family members adorn
I turn to my father to talk things through
because I know he will give me unbiased advice. My
dad turns to me too especially when it comes to new
marketing and product ideas that he is thinking of"
members and a shortage of space, “My mother is the nicest person I have walls. Sweet-scented white frangipani
she counts her “family” as her biggest ever met. She is constantly running trees beautifully complement the
influence. “They forced me to be real and around, helping the extended family, distressed furniture from Jodhpur in the
scrappy, fight for what I believe in and she never says no to anything. And my spacious courtyard.
want it,” she says. brother is taciturn in nature and does not Their garden continues to grow
As Executive Director Marketing, communicate much. He is my biggest because of the single-minded efforts of
Samsonite South Asia, Anushree critic and definitely keeps me real!” Ramesh Tainwala. He even has a nursery
believes everybody is a mini- Over the past years, Samsonite to nurture his small, leafy friends before
entrepreneur and business leader of has done some interesting marketing sending them out into his big lush green
their work area. “I like having a highly campaigns like #takebackMondays. expanse.
motivated team and like to drive them This year, they will be launching two Up next, apples are what he will be
at the high-level strategy, and give them new campaigns for American Tourister. trying to grow. Even though he has been
sufficient room to make, and implement One is a young and trendy concept for unsuccessful at it but he doesn’t give up
decisions. I get involved in details only backpacks. It is fun and built around so easily. A friend of his has informed
on critical projects,” she informs. the idea that backpacks are a great way him after watching a particular episode
“When I look at Anushree, my heart to show off the inner personality. The of Krishi Darshan that a man has
swells with pride,” says Tainwala gushing campaign will allow fans to be part of the managed to grow apples on his balcony
about his little girl who has him as her movement and interact in a fun way. The in the hills. Mr Tainwala is already
“tough boss” and is no way living under second campaign is going to be as huge excited to track down the apple man and
his shadow. “I like working for him. I’ve because it will bring together two of the seek his advice. Until that happens, he
learnt the importance of making quick biggest sports icons, Cristiano Ronaldo is looking at a few courses, as farming
decisions from him. He always taught and Virat Kohli in a tongue-in-cheek is his real passion. Didn’t we tell you
us that very often making a decision is manner. already that he is a constant gardener!
26 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 27INTERVIEW
required for the meeting, so we stay on
track. I also like to clear my mind and
prepare notes before the meeting so I can
lead the discussion in a more efficient
manner. I also like to set aside some time
for open discussion during the meeting,
as some of the best ideas come out of
freewheeling discussions
Five interesting things in your office
In-development samples and prototypes,
marble emoticon paper weights, a bottle
of ketchup and Harvard Business Review
magazines
Your ultimate holiday destination and why?
Bhutan. It’s the perfect mix of nature and
culture. I also got married there so it
holds a special place in my heart
What is your greatest indulgence?
Domino’s Pizza
What kind of music do you enjoy? Your
favourite movie and song?
I like rock music – U2, Police, Journey
and Coldplay. My favourite song is My Way
by Frank Sinatra. I don’t have a favourite
movie though!
What’s your poison?
A full-bodied glass of red wine
Personal Memo
What kind of coffee or tea do you like?
Chamomile
Your favourite holiday destination
Bhutan Favourite artists…
Your greatest indulgence FN Souza and Matisse
My children!
What is your kind of cinema? A few
Ramesh Tainwala I get up at 5.30am and touch base with Your favourite music favourite films…
my colleagues across different time I really enjoy bhajans and my children I like watching intense thrillers like Argo,
Please share the three greatest zones. Then, I start to work on my hate them! Captain Philips and Day of the Jackal. My
influences of your life. garden. After that, I get ready and reach favourite movie of all time is Mary Poppins
My first influence was my school office by 9 am and stay there till 5.30pm, Your favourite movies
headmaster, KK Singh who always and again at 6pm, I catch up with the rest All kind of Hindi movies featuring Anushree Tainwala work but I enjoy the solitude and come Any brands or designers you are fond of?
encouraged me to dream. Second would of the world. Govinda up with some of my best ideas during the I can’t do without my Tory Burch shoes
be my first employer, KK Agarwal who What is a day in your life like? commute. I also like to listen to podcasts
taught me to take swift action and not How do you prepare for important What are you reading right now? My day in Mumbai begins at 6 am. I or audible books while travelling. In the Which watch are you wearing at the
waste time in arguing and debating. meetings? I am reading Scale by Geoffrey West that spend time with my husband or read and evening, I generally catch up with friends moment?
The third person would be the founder I don’t like to prepare, as I like to speak creates mathematical models around go through emails in the morning before and family over dinner or drinks or have I’m wearing Cartier
of Good Night - Kalyanraman Mohan from the heart death work. I’m at work between 8.30 am and a quiet evening at home with yoga or a
who told me about the importance of 7 pm. I like to spend time with each of long walk What kind of books do you like? Please
marketing and the real power of creating Five favourite things in your office? Your message to the youth of today... my brand teams during the course of the name a few favourites.
a brand. Plants, flowers, my children’s photos, When you have more than your share of day, and also catch up with the design, How do you prepare for important I read everything from classics to current
books, and iconic Samsonite ads on the wealth, you need to think of people. Give development, and the communications meetings? popular reads and across genres. I prefer
What’s your day like? wall back a part of your wealth! team. I have a long commute to and from I like to prepare an agenda and time fiction to non-fiction.
28 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 29INSIGHT
WHAT MAKES A
CEO SUCCESSFUL?
IN HIS NEW BOOK, THE MAKING OF A CEO, AUTHOR SANDEEP K KRISHNAN ATTEMPTS TO
UNDERSTAND HOW INDIVIDUALS EVOLVE AS GREAT CEOS. THE JOURNEY TO THE TOP, HE
SAYS, INVOLVES THREE KEY ASPECTS — BUILDING PROFESSIONAL CREDIBILITY, MANAGING
YOUR CAREER AND MANAGING YOURSELF. AN EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK.
W
hat makes a CEO experienced and successful CEOs of
successful? It would be too multibillion-dollar businesses, found
easy if there was a simple six competencies that are critical for
answer to that question. success. These were self-awareness,
The difficulty is that there are CEOs for having a moral compass, being an
different types of organizations which effective listener, possessing good
may vary in nature, size, age and even judgement, being a persuasive
the country of operations. communicator and leading with
tenacity. They found that a successful
SKILLS AND EXPERTISE OF A CEO CEO has to have a high level of self-
The typical competencies expected of a awareness and the ability to be wise,
CEO fall into five categories. These are: persuasive and resilient.
thinking strategically, communicating, These competencies can apply to
enhancing teamwork, motivating others, other senior leaders as well. In an
and developing others. Very similar to interesting study, Russell Reynolds, a
the broad competencies mentioned leading executive search firm, looked
here, Indra Nooyi, CEO of PepsiCo, at the attributes that differentiate
articulated the leadership competencies CEOs from other executives. Of the
required by a CEO as the five Cs at one sixty attributes they studied, nine were
of their conferences. unique to CEOs.
These five Cs stand for: Top three of the nine attributes
THE MAKING OF A CEO 1. Competency: The knowledge, skills o Willingness to take calculated risks
AUTHOR: Sandeep K Krishnan and competence one brings to the table. o Bias towards action
PUBLISHER: Penguin Random You are respected for your ability to o Ability to efficiently read people
bring unique value.
House India
2. Courage and confidence: The ability Other six attributes
PAGES: 256
to give your opinions and decisions. o Forward thinking
Willingness to take a stand. o Optimistic
3. Communication: The written and oral o Constructively tough-minded
articulation of your thoughts that can o Measured emotion
help align and motivate your team and o Pragmatically inclusive
other stakeholders. o Willingness to trust
4. Consistency: To have a clear view on
matters and clarity on the principles The nine identified attributes
that govern your work style. showed paradoxes that CEOs go
5. Compass: Your values that will help through: their ability to be decisive yet
you go on the right path. inclusive, being emotionally intelligent
Coming from a similar perspective yet tough, and strategic yet having a
to Indra Nooyi’s, three researchers, bias towards action.
Modesto A. Maidique, Candace In an interview with IIM Bangalore
Atamanik, and Ruthann B. Perez, students, Krishnakumar Natarajan (KK),
after interviewing twenty-five co-founder and executive chairman
30 | MARCH 2018INSIGHT
of Mindtree, the multinational IT firm, They are willing to go the extra mile path to the top.
described the qualities of a CEO, ‘I think to make it happen. The second aspect So if we look at a pipeline approach
that the answer to this question has is the learning ability — learning towards growing into a CEO, the
changed over the years. Back in my continuously and using requisite skills starting point would be right when
time, a CEO had to be charismatic and to put new ideas to productive use in an individual joins an organization.
tell people what needed to be done all the organization. The enterprising spirit Evolved organizations are able to
the time [your communication skills]. looks at the willingness and skill to take specify what competencies are critical
In today’s world, I would say that a up new opportunities and assignments for successful performers who can
CEO needs to be more collaborative in an organization. Their willingness to grow in an organization. Research
than earlier because he does not go beyond their comfort zone can help shows that while intelligence and
know everything. He also needs to be them garner richer experiences and values are important, organizations
more humble because he does not prepare themselves for higher roles. need to evaluate potential candidates and developing top talent), team skills, thinking strategically (big picture,
know everything and has to listen to
everyone’s input in a respectful manner.
This, along with dynamic sensors —
the knack to sense the organizational
on the following competencies. These
are strategic orientation, market
leadership and change leadership.
The body of thought leadership The key enabling taking calculated risks), execution skills
(getting things done) and managing
Also the CEO should be able to deal
with moments of crisis. Be calm, do
climate in terms of potential challenges
that might affect their career negatively
insight, result orientation, customer
impact, collaboration and influence,
available gives an interesting landscape
showing how certain competencies
skills of a people (ability to read people, build a
great team and keep them). We explore
not lose the confidence, think about
the solutions and do not break under
— helps professionals navigate their organization development (attracting can define potential and growth of
individuals to the very top of the
CEO include: in detail here the multiple aspects of
communication and decision-making as
the pressure.’ Here, KK mentions how
inclusiveness and collaboration become
organization. The generic model of this
growth as a CEO is described in the
communication and part of thinking strategically.
critical behavioural traits of CEOs.
He also stresses the ability to power
figure above.
However, apart from the behavioural
influencing skills, CEO COMMUNICATION
Communication is often stated as one
through tough situations.
In most established organizations
traits, a CEO has to handle a whole
lot of responsibilities that require
thinking strategically of the most critical skills that a CEO
should possess for his/her success.
the ‘potential’ of a professional is seen deep functional expertise and overall (big picture, taking Communication involves reaching out
as a key parameter for growth. While experience. Key responsibilities are best and influencing multiple stakeholders.
performance is an outcome of doing delivered by an individual who has high calculated risks), CEOs need to communicate their
the current job effectively, potential strategic and business thinking, and vision and strategy across all levels
is the individual’s ability to grow. An the ability to manage people, including execution skills and of the organization, and influence
interesting research paper published internal and external stakeholders. It key stakeholders, including board
in Harvard Business Review spoke is also important to understand what managing people members, investors and shareholders,
(read people, build a
about four ‘X’ factors that defined high makes CEOs successful. key team members, employees at
potential. These were drive to excel, It is quite certain that the job of a large, and even society. Their verbal
learning capability, enterprising spirit
and dynamic sensors. People with
CEO is rather complex and requires
above-average skills. From interviews great team) and written communication, and also
non-verbal aspects like body language
high potential have a great drive to with CEOs and other existing literature, or attitudes, are often scrutinized and
excel; this means delivering excellent we have identified key enabling skills of interpreted by stakeholders. CEOs
results in good or bad conditions. a CEO: communication and influencing of established organizations are also
32 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 33INSIGHT
expected to face media and attend PR you a coffee company?’
events on a regular basis. To which Schultz said, ‘We’re not
Communication essentially happens
at the following levels/forums:
Communication in the coffee business. It’s what we
sell as a product but we’re in the
1. One-on-one communication that is is often stated as people business — hiring hundreds of
verbal or through emails employees a week, serving sixty million
2. Public speaking at internal or one of the most customers a week, it’s all human
external forums connection.’ In that moment Carmine
3. Traditional media communication critical skills that realized that successful leaders and
4. Social media communication inspiring communicators do not talk
The CEO of Starbucks, Howard a CEO should about the product as much as they paint
possess for his/
Schultz, has fabulous communication a picture of what the product stands for.
skills and this is considered a major Voice modulation, clarity of content
factor of his success. Schultz’s
communication style emphasizes her success. and body language are techniques
that CEOs learn over a period of time.
providing a vision to the business that
others can connect with, aligning Communication Communication skills relevant for a
CEO can also be developed with the
the team to the common goal, and
providing a human touch through
involves right training. For example, Juan
Ramón Alaix, the CEO of Zoetis,
storytelling. Carmine Gallo, author
of The Storyteller’s Secret: From
reaching out described a rigorous approach on
how he would communicate with
TED Speakers to Business Legends
describes it further through Schultz’s
and influencing investors, media or the board as the
CEO of a company that was getting
response to a business question: ‘I
hear you talking about people, health
multiple ready for an initial public offering
(IPO). Most CEOs have to give a
insurance, customer service, and the
experience in your stores, but I have yet
stakeholders. number of interviews, make public
appearances, address internal and
to hear you say the word coffee. Aren’t external audiences, and even be active
on social media. In their role, CEOs silos to a more collaborative culture.
come across crisis situations and it is Similarly, Jack Welch of General
their responsibility to communicate One of the most Electric (GE), though known to be very
on behalf of the organization. How a assertive and demanding, had excellent
CEO communicates — spontaneous critical elements listening skills and ensured that he was
or planned — is a critical element understood and the messages that he
in making his/her image. The CEO’s in the process of was trying to get through to the senior
image also influences the reputation leaders were well communicated. A few
of the organization with internal and communication of the other communication skills that
is that how the
external stakeholders. Jack Welch swears by are simplicity and
One of the most critical elements clarity, frequency of communication,
in the process of communication is
how the CEO makes sure that he is CEO makes and the ability to persuade others to
follow in his steps. There are three
understood in the proper sense by
the larger audience. This involves a sure that he aspects that sum up the essential
communication skills of CEOs or top
combination of techniques that could
help in effective communication. Some
is understood leaders. These are: ability to have
two-way communication, repeating the
of the best CEOs put in efforts to be
understood and to determine how
in the proper communication keeping in mind clarity
and the simplicity of the message, and
their message is communicated to the
organization. Alan Mulally, the CEO
sense by the the use of storytelling to connect with
the audience.
who is credited with the turnaround
of Ford, emphasized the ‘unity of
larger audience Reprinted with permission of Penguin
purpose’ in all his communication and Random House India. Excerpted from
relied on multiple channels to get the The Making of a CEO. Copyright ©
message through, transforming the Sandeep K. Krishnan 2017. All rights
way the organization worked — from reserved.
34 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 35INSIGHT GROCERY RETAILING, REIMAGINED As grocers face into the future they should not lose sight of what customers love about them today Words: Stephen Caine and Lisa Koette
INSIGHT
T
oday’s grocery business will the strong new competition and rapid starts by investing to protect those
be virtually unrecognisable changes, retailers can no longer avoid hard-earned loyalty and market-
a decade from now. As the tsunami coming at them. share advantages and build on those
Amazon brings its power and In fact, those who do not invent strengths, thoughtfully expanding
proven approach to deliver the future run the risk of being digital capabilities while finding new
the market’s omnichannel potential, overwhelmed by it. They also have more ways to reimagine physical stores to
now boldly setting a new frontier with power than they think. serve evolving customer needs.
its Amazon Go store of the future, The reality is that as omnichannel Grocers can learn from markets
and as food delivery services and becomes widespread in the industry, that are further along on the learning
specialised start-ups continue to enter many traditional incumbent grocers curve. While online now represents
the competition in unexpected ways, are in a solid position to outpace the only 3 per cent of all grocery sales in
grocery retailing is evolving at record competition, both old and new, with a the US, it accounts for 9 per cent in
speed — and it is easy to feel daunted model that is sustainably profitable. the UK, about 5.5 per cent in France
by the changes. Indeed, many grocers Over the decades, these players have and is approaching 20 per cent in
in the US have cautiously watched steadily gained market share and many South Korea, where the urban density
events unfold and, amid tough industry have built industry-leading levels of (and digitally savvy population) makes
economics, shied away from making customer loyalty. Ceding ground to the economics work well. Traditional
the required big moves that will help newcomers now means losing not only grocers in those markets have taken
them get out ahead. They’ve struggled customers’ hearts, but also the scale early, aggressive moves to pre-empt
to invest sufficiently in a battle they fear and cost gains that have bolstered competition from online pure plays.
they cannot afford to win. However, with years of success. So the road ahead Some have maintained market share
even as the business has made its big online. It also improved its product
Start by investing
online shift. line with high-profit offerings such as
Consider the strategic steps taken ready-made meals.
by South Korea’s E-Mart to eliminate
customer pain points and attract to protect those Another example of a move toward
the future: The acquisition of Argos by
shoppers to stores, while increasing
the degree to which retailing becomes
hard-earned Sainsbury’s, which allowed the large UK
grocer to further build its scale in non-
seamlessly omnichannel. For example, loyalty and food categories, access new fulfillment
market share
to serve different grocery buying needs, capabilities and add Argos shops within
the retailer built a proprietary digital its supermarkets.
platform combining all of its grocery
formats as well as a “marketplace.” It advantages Retail economics have been
challenging, and in hindsight some
offers numerous in-store services tied
to its mobile application. Customers
and build on grocers have made some steps
that aren’t worth replicating, but
can scan the barcode of bulkier those strengths, they’ve also created new customer
thoughtfully
products using the E-Mart mobile propositions while striving to manage
app and, after paying at the register, pricing and face some big questions,
have the products delivered to their
home. Shoppers can retrieve product expanding digital such as what you can charge for
and what you need to give away. For
information such as reviews and
discounts by scanning the product’s
capabilities while example, in the battle for market share,
some European grocers have neglected
QR code. E-Mart invested significantly finding new ways to charge for the extra effort required
to reimagine
in back-end operations to offer five for delivery, exposing themselves to
different same-day delivery options. To financial trouble. Now, consumers have
create synergy with its online business,
it assigned new roles for stores — physical stores been educated that picking, packing
and delivery come at no cost to them.
they now serve as pickup centres and That’s difficult to reverse. The lesson to
shipping centres for orders placed retailers making those new decisions
38 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 39INSIGHT
is clear; educate the market from the and Wegmans built a reputation for
Grocers cannot
start on the price and value of the retail theatre and prepared foods.
service you are providing. Now, these differentiating strategies
Winning also means redefining
your investment model. Doing nothing lose sight of can give traditional grocers a leg up
on newcomers in multiple ways. For
comes at a big cost. By not investing
to maintain your leadership position,
the critical role example, when customers like your
brand, they already spend more with
you will watch your business erode. that stores you and may be more likely to stick
will play in
Even in the changing landscape, with you over a newcomer if you have a
scale still matters, and investing strong e-commerce offering.
to maintain your leadership
position is more critical than ever the customer The omnichannel imperative
has brought with it an opportunity
before. However, it is important to
acknowledge that investments in both
experience. to re-evaluate how you differentiate
and how you can bring that same
online and offline will remain dilutive That requires philosophy to online offerings while
boldly
in the near term, and that there is an evolving your physical stores to
imperative to manage costs to fund meet changing shopper behaviour.
the moves that will be necessary to
survive and flourish. experimenting If anything, omnichannel is a tricky
balance. While shoppers undoubtedly
Over the years, leading US grocers
have shown how to take the initiative
with stores will go online for more and more of
their routine purchases, they will
required to gain an edge over rivals. to enhance always look to physical shopping
the shopper
Grocers like H-E-B invested to as a part of their total shopping
emphasise localised store formats experience. It provides inspiration,
and product assortments, companies
like Walmart and Aldi created a value experience variety, entertainment, personal
contact and advice, and the ability to
proposition on pricing, Publix made confirm freshness and make impulse
high-touch customer service a priority, purchases, among many other things.
A huge part of the challenge has 1. Really understand what it is
been figuring out how to nail the online
offering without losing sight of the You cannot that customers love about you. A
fundamental rule for physical stores
critical role that stores will play in the
customer experience. That requires
be all things still applies in an omnichannel world:
You cannot be all things to all people.
boldly experimenting with stores to
enhance the shopper experience — to
to all people. You need to clearly define your value
proposition. What do you stand for that
learn what shoppers like in a local You need to is truly distinct? Where do you focus?
trade area while testing your own
capabilities. For example, you could clearly define What can you deliver better than anyone
else? Is it convenience? Price? Fresh
install cafés where shoppers can
dine on prepared foods provided by
your value food? Understand what your customers
want and why you have earned their
third-party vendors, or devote aisles
to fresh seafood. You might design an
proposition. loyalty, and do not abandon that as you
define your e-commerce model. In fact,
attractive space devoted to picking up What do you double down on it.
items bought online, or erect kiosks
for placing online orders that will be stand for 2. Take your current differentiation
and use it online. Omnichannel is
delivered to a shopper’s home within an
hour, seamlessly combining the best of
that is truly an opportunity to recommit yourself
to the value proposition that made
both physical and digital retailing.
The most successful grocers
distinct? What you successful in the first place. If
you put something out there that
will be those that invest to offer an can you deliver is too different, it will just confuse
omnichannel experience without losing
sight of their unique value proposition better than your customers. The objective is
to reimagine your current value
and what they stand for in the
customer’s mind.
anyone else? proposition and take that online. For
example, if fresh is your differentiation,
offer five degrees of ripeness for
HOW TO FIND YOUR FUTURE bananas ordered online. Grocers
We find that leading grocers get five can look across industries to see
things right. how companies are successfully
40 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 41INSIGHT
translating their brand positioning example, geo-targeting may mean
Online brings
into an online environment. Sephora’s offering free online delivery in an
value proposition includes an in- urban centre, where it is not cost
store experience in which shoppers
sample various types of cosmetics with it a host prohibitive and where customers may
be more willing to pay, but charging
before buying. Online, it relies on
augmented reality to offer its “Sephora
of critical for delivery in outlying areas. It may
mean piloting new mini-store formats
Virtual Artist,” an interactive virtual business model in city centres but larger stores in
decisions. Be
makeup mirror that allows shoppers suburbs. Be careful not to over-
to experiment with different products, deliver or overcommit in ways that are
shades and styles. Likewise, Best Buy
is known for its store-within-a-store careful not to unprofitable and difficult to reverse in
the race for market share.
concept and the availability of Geek
Squad technicians. The electronics
over-deliver or 3. Understand that investing in
digital capabilities (tools and people)
retailer’s site offers a similar store- overcommit in and operations is table stakes. To
ways that are
within-a-store experience online as succeed in omnichannel you will
well as the chance to chat live with a need to invest in a range of new
Geek Squad agent.
Online brings with it a host of unprofitable capabilities, such as generating,
collecting and analysing customer
critical business model decisions,
such as choosing delivery offerings
and difficult to data for personalised marketing and
services. These investments should
— same day, next day and pickup — reverse in the be designed to improve the efficiency
race for market
and the choice between what you of your overall operation in addition
build yourself and where you partner. to boosting basket size and margins.
Start small and experiment, working
with different models and partners share You cannot invest in everything all at
once. You will need to be disciplined,
to test both physical and online focusing all investments to serve your
options narrowly by geography. For chosen strategy. The best companies
have a portfolio mindset (for instance, lot to get a head start on picking up performance. You no longer can
70 per cent of investment is to items purchased online. Important: segregate profitability within the four
support the current business, 20 Your vision of the future physical walls of a physical store from online
per cent is for near-term changes store needs to be tailored locally. This profitability. You need to combine
and 10 per cent is for farther-out is what H-E-B achieves by operating them, considering the total cost to
innovations). Take a careful, honest its food hall-inspired Central Market serve. Among the questions to ask:
look at the capabilities you have, concept in some upscale locales What is your charge-back philosophy?
what you need to execute on your and its Mi Tienda stores in areas What is the customer willing to pay
strategy and the gaps to fill. For many that serve primarily Hispanic/Latino for? What do you give away for free
incumbents, the answer will involve customers. In addition, it is critical to earn loyalty? What will you charge
redesigning the operating model for to understand how new parts of the for? For example, your customers
an omnichannel world. store that may seem auxiliary to the may be willing to pay for same-day
4. Reimagine the role of the physical shopping experience, like tables delivery but not for in-store pickup
store. Again, as omnichannel takes for ready-to-eat meals, will gain — but how will that vary by location?
hold, the physical store experience importance by boosting foot traffic. Without appropriate attention to
will need to change. Stores will look Another big consideration: getting the charging tactics and pricing, online
vastly different 10 years from now right-sized store for the location. will continue to offer less attractive
— with an expansive pickup area, a 5. Revise how you think about your returns than traditional store retailing
convenience section for topping up investment model. Do not make the on a standalone basis.
purchases made online and other big mistake of evaluating investments in There is no avoiding the need to
changes that we cannot yet imagine. omnichannel on a standalone basis. reimagine grocery for an omnichannel
Ask yourself what you want the If you do, it will always look dilutive. world. For the leading incumbent
physical store to look like for your You need to consider investments in grocers — who have built impressive
customers and begin moving in that a broader context of total trade areas customer loyalty over the years — the
direction now. For example, create a and catchment areas. It is critical opportunity is yours to lose.
customer-friendly pickup experience to understand customer profitability
that is operationally efficient. across channels. And remember that Stephen Caine and Lisa Koetter are
Walmart is experimenting with an there is a cost of doing nothing in members of Bain & Company’s Retail
offering in which customers can text your analysis. practice. Caine is based in Chicago,
an associate while in the parking The same applies to measuring Koetter in Boston.
42 | MARCH 2018 CEO INDIA | 43You can also read
