Given the sheer size and population of India, logistics is considered a major lifeline for the economic development of India. As a result, the government too is making massive investments and announcing various initiatives for the improvement of infrastructure across the country. Thus, we are witnessing the emergence of a multitude of logistics businesses recently. Many business leaders are gathering the limelight in the logistics industry through their profound knowledge and understanding of the industry. One such logistics industry leader who is successfully driving his organization to great heights is Devendra K. Manral, CEO, Indigo Seaways.
Having completed his MBA degree in Strategy & Finance from Trinity School of Business, University of Dublin, Devendra also holds a PG Diploma in Global Supply Chain Management from the Indian Institute of Material Management & CII. He has also completed two Executive Programs from IIM Ahmedabad in ‘Strategies for Growth’ and ‘Project Management in Major Ports’ subjects. Additionally, he has also done a research project on the Dublin Port along with World Bank on ‘Port Reforms, Building Sustainable Competitive Advantages & Port Growth’ and a case study on ‘Challenges Faced by Mid-size Container Terminal Serving Short Sea Trade’.
Illustrative Career & Experience
Along with an excellent academic background, Devendra also boasts an extensive career in the logistics and maritime industry. In his 42+ year-long career, Devendra has handled key roles across companies such as Wilhelmsen, Barber Marine Consultants, Dublin Port Company, Aditya Birla Group, and Vedanta Resources, prior to joining Indigo Seaways in 2016. Furthermore, he is also a certified Business Excellence Assessor and holds a Master Mariner degree from the UK.
When asked about the major challenges that he faced, Devendra says, “Having served in the logistics sector for the past 40 years, the biggest business challenge one faces is in operating and managing Ghogha – Hazira Ro Pax trade,
a Mass Public Rapid Transport under Govt’s PPP arrangement.
The project competes with other government-subsidized Mass Rapid transport systems. With underdeveloped infrastructure and in the absence of an even playing field, one is tasked with successfully operating and managing Mass Rapid Sea Transport System. Operate the project effectively, and profitability and fulfill revenue share commitments with authorities. Globally, Mass Rapid Transport systems are set up for the public good and operate on government subsidy, where the actual usage cost of services cannot be recovered from the public. The business by nature is highly regulated and very challenging. One must be fully focused, engaged, proactive, customer-centric and be cognizant of the fact that customer has other logistics options as well”.
Very aware of the importance logistics plays in a product’s lifecycle, Devendra ensures to keep a close eye on the cost and time factors in his daily function at Indigo Seaways and makes sure customers do not have to face the brunt of cost escalations. Devendra strongly believes that a thorough understanding of the industry operations and customer- centric relationship management skills are a must for any individual to be a successful logistics professional. Keeping customer satisfaction as paramount, he always makes sure that his team goes the extra mile to ensure no customers face any hassles.
“Domain knowledge and empathy towards one’s employees and customers are the two most important traits of a successful business leader, but not in the same priority. In my experience, empathy comes first, followed by domain knowledge. Continual engagement with employees, market overview, and sensing market & customers’ changing demand are equally important.
Domain knowledge & empathy towards One’s employees & customers are the Two most important traits of a successful Business leader, but not in the same Priority
The guiding principle that I rely on is – ‘A leader is the one who always leads by example and from the front’. While leading from the front, one must also watch and guide the team from behind to ensure that the weakest of the lot is not left behind. Coaching and mentoring are at the heart of successful leadership. In logistics, commitment to timely, cost-effective delivery and proactiveness are the important traits for the success of a business leader”, explains Devendra.
Sharing Wisdom
When asked what his advice would be to upcoming business professionals, Devendra says, “One must continually look at the future of the business and suitability of the organization to support the future business needs. Maritime assets are mostly capital intensive and highly regulated, hence a lot of foresightedness and long-term vision in the range of 15- 20 years must go into designing such assets. Incremental advancements and modifications of assets to meet contemporary needs must also be part of the vision required for operating a business successfully. At the heart of every successful business, a customer-centric approach is a must. So, my advice to young leaders would be to be passionate about their role in business, ups & downs are integral and cyclical companions of business. One must remain focused and unfazed by these cyclical challenges. It’s equally important to remain fully engaged, eager to learn, and be a student during the journey. Above all, empathy and agility are at the core to be successful”.
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