In India, the cement manufacturing industry is experiencing rapid growth, creating ample opportunities for young professionals to establish successful and fulfilling careers. These individuals are dedicated to advancing the industry through innovative and sustainable practices. They achieve this by pursuing education relevant to the field, gaining experience, embracing new technology, and networking with other industry experts.
Vedant Agarwal is a prime example of a young professional with a comprehensive understanding of the industry's requirements and obstacles. By applying his unique perspective to his role at Surya Cement, he is helping to shape the company's future through creative and original ideas.
Upon completing his higher education at Purdue University in Indiana, USA, Vedant Agarwal ventured into entrepreneurship with a startup that merged the Internet of Things with consumer-facing brands in the laundry sector. Through iodizing the laundry machines, his startup provided a service-oriented SAS model where portable dry-cleaning machines were placed in hotels.
After gaining experience, Vedant began a new startup in India, which focused on water softeners, again incorporating the Internet of Things. However, Vedant's family was already involved in the cement industry, and he recognized the substantial demand for it in the market.
Hence, he made a significant shift toward this industry and has found success in his role as the Director of Surya Cement.
Trusting Capable Workforce
Vedant's approach to leadership is characterized by a strong focus on growth and a deep trust in the capabilities of his team. As the Director of Surya Cement, Vedant understands the importance of empowering his partners and employees to take charge of their respective roles within the organization. He recognizes that micromanaging is not an effective way to lead, and prefers to take a more strategic approach to ensure that his company continues to evolve and expand. By focusing on value additions and improvements in areas such as manufacturing and marketing, Vedant is constantly seeking ways to enhance the quality and reputation of Surya Cement.
Vedant speaks candidly about the challenges he faced as a young leader, starting his career during the COVID-19 pandemic. He says, "Despite the difficulties, I witnessed the changes brought on by the pandemic as a positive influence on the marketing landscape. However, rising raw material costs have presented challenges for our cement business, with coal, and logistics costs all increasing. Though there are several daily challenges we face while running an organization, I strive to be better and learn from my mistakes. As an entrepreneur and leader, I understand the importance of adapting to change and overcoming obstacles to achieve long-term success."
Vedant values the experience he gains from his team & the market & believes that there is always something to learn & explore
Furthermore, explaining more about the company's growth and future plans, Vedant adds, "In the last financial year, the company witnessed a record high sale of cement, which is a remarkable feat. The demand for cement has been growing at an average CAGR of 5.8 percent, with the last three years' CAGR exceeding 12 percent. And our organization has been expanding its market size aggressively. Most importantly, I am optimistic about expanding the business all over North East and beyond."
For upcoming leaders, Vedant advises stepping out of their comfort zone and embracing challenges. He shares his own experience of moving from the US to India, which pushed him out of his comfort zone but also helped him grow as a leader. He sees each day as a game and enjoys the process of getting better and growing. Vedant values the experience he gains from his team and the market and believes that there is always something to learn and explore.
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