The Aviation Ground Support Equipment (GSE) market has experienced remarkable growth in the recent years, driven by the surging demand for efficient aircraft ground handling operations. Escalating air passenger traffic and cargo transportation have placed additional strain on airports, highlighting the necessity for advanced GSE to enhance operational efficiency. Technological advancements, particularly in electric and hybrid support equipment, have gained traction due to their environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, safety and reducing aircraft turnaround times have become paramount, further fueling market expansion.
However, amid this growth, clients in the aviation GSE industry grapple with significant challenges. The clients contend with high acquisition costs, intricate regulations, and demanding maintenance. Adapting to varied aircraft and environmental concerns adds complexity. Global expansion and competition necessitate efficient operations while safety and liability management are paramount. A proficient Aviation GSE solution provider can offer cost-effective, compliant, and technologically advanced equipment. They also provide training and maintenance support, ensuring clients meet industry demands while optimizing efficiency and safety.
In response to these challenges, Nandan GSE, a prominent and trusted solution provider, play a pivotal role by offering innovative and tailored solutions to address the multifaceted needs of clients in this dynamic industry. Dr. Raghunandan Jagdish, the CEO of Nandan GSE Private Limited, stands at the helm of the company, propelling it to greater heights within the industry. With over two decades of visionary leadership, he has fostered the growth of Nandan GSE into a formidable force, boasting a dedicated team of over 250 professionals specializing in aviation ground support equipment, aerospace, and defense handling systems.
With a remarkable track record of delivering over 10,000 equipment to clients in more than 25 countries, Nandan GSE offers comprehensive solutions from conceptualization to execution. This integrated approach in design, manufacturing, and servicing has solidified their position as a trusted partner for clients seeking effective solutions in the aviation GSE industry.
In an exclusive interview with, Industry Outlook, Dr. Raghunandan Jagdish provides insight into his professional traits and sheds light on Nandan GSE's distinctive role within the industry.
Kindly take us through your educational journey and prior industry experience. Share some of your professional milestones achieved during your tenure as CEO of Nandan GSE?
I completed my Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering in Mumbai before pursuing a Master's degree from Texas A&M University in Mechanical Engineering. Later, I obtained my Ph.D. from France's Robot Sorbonne University. My journey into business began when I joined Nandan GSE in 2003. At that time, the company had 19 employees. Today, it's been 20 years, and I am the CEO, steering the company into its second generation of leadership.
My journey began by transforming Nandan GSE from a small team to an organization of over 250 employees. We built factories from scratch, navigated local challenges, and developed a robust leadership structure. In 2019, we transitioned to a distributed power structure, ensuring sustainable growth. Even during the challenges posed by the pandemic, we scaled up, expanded our facilities, and added capacity.
Please give us an overview of your experience in the Aviation industry as a business leader.
Over the past 30 years, Nandan GSE has grown significantly. We are now a team of over 250 professionals operating from two factories covering 100,000 square feet in Navi Mumbai. We are ISO 9001 and ISO 45001 certified, ensuring global quality standards. Our expertise lies in aviation ground support equipment and aerospace and defense handling systems. We've expanded our presence beyond India to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Notable projects include car parking systems for Ratan Tata and innovative electric mobiles used by dignitaries like the Prime Minister.
What are the most important business challenges that you face today in your current role? What is the leadership mantra that you have grown over the time?
Challenges evolve, but we've tackled them successfully. We've built a robust middle management team and focused on niche, specialized handling equipment. Our strategy involves global expansion and participation in exhibitions. Cash flow management remains a priority, and we've been judicious in our approach.
Our values are encapsulated in "REALISTICS" i.e Responsiveness, Excellence, Accountability, Leadership, Integrity, Speed, Trust, Innovation, Continual Improvement and Safety-Quality-Ontime-Happiness. These values guide our decision-making and operations.
What are your future plans for yourself and the company? Where do you see Nandan GSE in the next five years?
We envision Nandan GSE as a global leader in specialized handling equipment. We are committed to the "AtmaNirvar Bharat" initiative, aiming to manufacture products in India for global markets. We're educating the Indian market about efficiency and profitability gains through our technology. Defense and exports are key focus areas, and we anticipate substantial growth as companies seek to reduce manpower and improve efficiency. Nandan GSE's evolution reflects a remarkable story of innovation, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence. As we continue to embrace new challenges and opportunities, the future looks promising, with a vision to elevate India's presence on the global stage in the aviation and aerospace industry.
Dr. Raghunandan Jagdish, CEO, Nandan GSE
A luminary in the Aviation GSE industry taking Nandan GSE leading Unprecedented heights.
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