Leadership, Innovation, and Resilience: Insights from the CEO of VK Industrial Corporation Limited

CXOToday has engaged in an exclusive interview with Ms. Kairavi Mehta, CEO and Executive Director of V. K. Industrial Corporation Limited (VKICL)

1. As the CEO of V. K. Industrial Corporation Limited, you’ve been recognized for your exceptional leadership. Can you share insights into your leadership style and how it has contributed to the success of VKICL?

My leadership style as CEO of V. K. Industrial Corporation Limited revolves around fostering a collaborative and innovative culture. I believe in empowering and nurturing my team, fostering open communication, advocating for a common vision and leading by example. This leadership style and approach have significantly contributed to VKICL’s success by encouraging creativity, improving efficiency, and instilling a strong sense of commitment in our employees.

2. The steel industry is known for its traditional nature. How have you brought innovation to VKICL, and what role do you see innovation playing in the future of the steel distribution business?

Steel distribution industry has been known for being notoriously pen and paper and even after being one of the oldest industries, it had not evolved much when I had joined in 2014. The traditional nature of the steel industry presented challenges, but at VKICL, we embraced innovation to stay ahead. Digitalization, blockchain technology, advanced materials, green and sustainable practices, smart warehousing, etc are some of the innovations that we have employed and are currently working on integrating AI in our systems. Constant innovation is critical for the steel distribution industry’s future as it allows us to disrupt the industry and create more value for all our stakeholders.

3. Your educational background includes a Bachelor’s in Science in Business Administration from Babson College. How has your academic foundation in Finance and Economics influenced your decision-making and approach to business?

“My educational journey at Babson College, where I earned a Bachelor’s in Science in Business Administration, has been transformative in shaping my leadership style. The comprehensive focus on Finance and Economics not only equipped me with essential academic knowledge but also instilled vital soft skills. Exposure to global best practices and a strong emphasis on sustainable and environmentally friendly policies at Babson became the foundation of my professional approach.

The lessons learned at Babson College continue to influence how I tackle challenges and identify opportunities in my role. The decisions I make and the vision I have for the company are deeply rooted in the principles and practices instilled during my time at what I second the world’s no. 1 school for entrepreneurship.

4. Being the only woman leader in India at the helm of a Steel Distribution Company is a significant achievement. How do you navigate gender dynamics in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and what advice do you have for other women aspiring to leadership roles?

In 2014 I was the only woman in the steel distribution industry and navigating through the gender dynamics of a traditionally male-dominated industry was undoubtedly challenging. While numerous women had already made strides in various industries by the 21st century, the steel distribution sector remained largely untouched by female leadership.

Entering this arena, I faced the task of not just proving my success as an entrepreneur but also challenging stereotypes and creating a space for women in a domain where they were traditionally absent. Every day was a testament to breaking barriers and dispelling preconceived notions, and the journey was its own achievement. Today, with 50% women in our workforce—a rarity in the steel industry—I’ve come to realize that barriers based on gender, caste, or creed can be overcome.

My experiences have fueled a commitment to fostering inclusivity, extending beyond gender to embrace marginalized communities such as transgenders, individuals with special needs and others. Looking ahead, my aspiration is to continue building more inclusive environments, drawing from the lessons learned on this journey.

5. What are your plans for the future of VKICL, and how does sustainability factor into those plans? Are there specific initiatives or strategies you’re implementing to ensure the long-term success and environmental responsibility of the company?

VKICL’s future plans include continued expansion, expansion into sustainable practices, and a commitment to environmental responsibility. Adopting eco-friendly technologies, reducing our carbon footprint, and investing in renewable energy sources are among the initiatives. Sustainability is a strategic imperative for long-term success, not just a responsibility.

6. You’ve mentioned your relentless pursuit of self-improvement. How do you foster a culture of continuous learning within VKICL, and what role has professional development played in your own career trajectory?

At VKICL, fostering a culture of continuous learning is at the core of our values. We prioritize this through a range of initiatives, including training programs and mentorship, while actively encouraging our team to pursue ongoing education. Leading by example, I personally commit to annual executive courses to continually enhance my own skill set.

Emphasizing open communication, we create an environment where employees feel empowered to share diverse ideas and perspectives, fostering group learning and development. In my own career, professional development has played a pivotal role. It has equipped me with the skills necessary to navigate evolving challenges and effectively guide the company forward.

7. The business landscape is constantly evolving. How do you stay informed about industry trends, and how does VKICL adapt to changes in the business environment?

Staying Informed about Industry Trends entails actively participating in industry conferences, networking with peers, and leveraging technology for real-time market insights. VKICL adapts to change by cultivating an agile culture, investing in R&D, and encouraging innovative thinking at all levels of the organization.

8. As a successful business leader, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women looking to make an impact in traditionally male-dominated industries?

My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women in traditionally male-dominated industries, is to be brave, believe in yourself, and seek mentorship. Accept challenges as opportunities for growth, put continuous learning first, and create a strong support network. Success is determined by competence, resilience, and a desire to make a positive difference, not gender.