Launched in 2020, Green Drive Auto Services was set up with the vision to combat the adverse environmental impact of fossil fuel vehicles by introducing a fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) with its comprehensive EV-as-a- Service and Delivery-as-a-Service Platform, thus contributing to India's mission of achieving zero-emission and emission-free delivery. Hari Krishna, a prominent figure in the EV mobility industry has been instrumental in achieving significant milestones, including the development of an extensive charging station network, deployment of EVs for efficient deliveries, scaling operations to meet industry demands, and building strategic partnerships with manufacturers and technology providers.
Krishna's leadership has played a vital role in making electric vehicles a preferred choice for industries such as ecommerce, pharmaceuticals, dairy, grocery, FMCG, and courier services. His commitment to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction positions Green Drive Mobility as a pioneering force in the evolving logistics sector. As the company continues to grow, Krishna remains dedicated to advancing the adoption of electric vehicles and contributing to a more sustainable future. Let's hear from him.
Please guide us through your educational path and previous industry exposure that has endowed you with the essential skills to excel in the financial role within a business.
I completed a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, which furnished me with a robust understanding of electrical systems, circuit analysis, and power distribution. This technical knowledge has proven invaluable in comprehending the complexities of electric vehicles and their underlying technology.
Following my undergraduate studies, I obtained PMP certification, affirming my proficiency in project management methodologies, best practices, and tools. This certification has equipped me with the expertise to efficiently plan, execute, and oversee the financial aspects of EV projects, ensuring both timeliness and cost-effectiveness.
Preceding my involvement in the EV industry, I accumulated significant industry experience over 15 years, serving in various capacities in Engineering, Leadership, and Project Management. These roles have endowed me with the requisite capabilities to excel in the financial domain of a business.
In summary, my educational journey as an Electrical Engineer, complemented by a PMP certificate, coupled with over a decade of experience in roles such as Engineering Manager within multinational corporations, including managing EV showrooms and services, has provided me with a solid foundation and the necessary skills to thrive in the finance function of an EV business. I am confident that this unique amalgamation of technical, project management, and industry knowledge positions me effectively to drive financial excellence and contribute to the sustainable growth of the organization.
As a business leader, how do you inspire your workforce to take better business actions? What is your guiding leadership philosophy?
As a business leader, my approach to inspiring the workforce revolves around creating an environment that nurtures growth, collaboration, and empowerment.
I prioritize a compelling vision that communicates the organization's purpose and long-term goals, motivating employees to make meaningful contributions.
Leading by example is fundamental to my philosophy. Through demonstrating passion, dedication, and a strong work ethic, I inspire employees to emulate these qualities. Transparency, integrity, and empathy are key values, fostering a culture where employees feel valued and motivated.
Effective communication is central to inspiring better business actions. I establish open and honest channels, regularly sharing updates and actively listening to employee feedback. Recognizing individual and team achievements is crucial, and I ensure that contributions are acknowledged through public recognition, rewards, or growth opportunities.
My guiding leadership philosophy centers on creating an environment where employees thrive and contribute their best. By setting a compelling vision, leading by example, promoting open communication, encouraging innovation, empowering employees, and recognizing achievements, I inspire my workforce to take better business actions, steering the organization towards excellence.
How do you stay abreast of the ongoing advancements in the industry and the tech world? How do you adjust to these developments?
Remaining well-aligned with periodic advancements in industries like electric vehicle (EV) logistics is crucial for business owners in a rapidly evolving sector. Here are strategies we, as business owners, employ to adapt to ongoing developments.
We regularly encourage employees to participate in relevant conferences, seminars, and workshops where industry leaders discuss the latest advancements. Networking at these events often leads to valuable insights and potential collaborations. Additionally, we actively follow industry-specific publications, conferences, and forums to stay updated on the latest trends, innovations, and advancements.
Within the organization, we foster a culture of continuous learning by motivating employees to attend relevant training programs and conferences. Building and maintaining a robust network within the industry, engaging with peers, suppliers, and other stakeholders, facilitate the exchange of information and insights.
Seeking collaborations with technology providers, research institutions, and other companies is an active approach to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. We also establish strategic partnerships with technology companies and startups specializing in relevant areas, as collaborating with innovative partners provides access to cutting-edge solutions and expertise.
My visionary approach in EV mobility revolves around adaptability, forward-thinking, & placing the customer & sustainability at the core of decision-making
What kind of vision is required to lead a business successfully? Please tell us about your visionary approach.
In my role as a leader in the EV mobility business, promoting sustainability is a key aspect. Recognizing the industry's environmental impact, I emphasize green initiatives such as eco-friendly practices, efficient transportation routes, and adopting renewable energy sources. Building alliances with suppliers, customers, and technology providers is crucial for unlocking new opportunities, enhancing capabilities, and creating synergies for growth. Additionally, my approach involves prioritizing strong customer relationships, providing value-added services, and adapting the business model to meet evolving customer demands.
Overall, my visionary approach in EV mobility revolves around adaptability, forward-thinking, and placing the customer and sustainability at the core of decision-making. It requires constant evaluation of the business landscape, anticipation of future challenges, and seizing opportunities to drive innovation and growth.
Advice to Young Entrepreneurs
For aspiring entrepreneurs, my advice is to find passion, stay committed through hard work, and prioritize continuous learning. Build a supportive network, embrace failure as a learning opportunity, focus on sustainability, and be adaptable. Surround yourself with a skilled team, stay determined, and strive for excellence, understanding that success requires time and effort.
Hari Krishna, Founder, Green Drive Auto Services
Krishna, a visionary leader in the EV mobility business, has been instrumental in making electric vehicles the preferred choice for industries like e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, dairy, and more. With a background in Electrical Engineering, PMP certification, and over 15 years of industry experience, Krishna is dedicated to advancing the adoption of electric vehicles, contributing to sustainability, and ensuring financial excellence at Green Drive Mobility. His leadership philosophy focuses on creating an environment that nurtures growth, collaboration, and empowerment, inspiring the workforce to take better business actions.
