She knits together strategy at the $1.1 billion (₹7,200 crore) Vardhman Group that has nearly 28,000 employees. Third generation member of the Ludhiana-based Oswal family, Suchita Jain, Joint managing director of Vardhman Textiles, joined the family firm young and had a hand in setting up the woven fabric division, a unit that’s spinning profits for the group. The London Business School graduate has woven connections between Vardhman and global brands such as GAP, Benetton, Esprit. She shares her views on:

Taking responsibility in a family firm at a time when many want to do their own thing

I joined the group in 1990 at the age of 23. At such a young age, it is usually difficult to take big decisions to run a company. But I was always keen to take my family’s legacy ahead. I knew that a youthful vision would take the family business to new highs. I was fortunate to be associated with the new project of forward integration of our yarn business.

A management mantra that sees her through the work day

To be able to manage your workforce efficiently is vital. Being transparent to your employees and giving them a supporting hand during tough times is another mantra. I always look forward to their opinions and needs to build a strong relationship which, in turn, reflects upon the company’s performance. A leader should always be available to assist her employees.

Three unique qualities women leaders bring to the table

As a woman leader, one needs to have empathy to get the best out of people. Multi-tasking is another ability that every woman leader should have. It is important as leadership involves managing, coordinating and adapting to real-world conditions. Another essential attribute of a successful woman leader is working with a cool head even in unfavourable situations. I believe that thoughtfulness rather than knee-jerk reactions in difficult times makes a huge difference.

Maintaining a work-life balance

As a working woman and mother of two daughters, it is important for me to maintain a healthy work-life balance.A woman is usually multitasking most of the times and that is how I juggle between my responsibilities, be it at work or at home. I believe one can easily manage household chores with strong family backing, which I have and feel lucky about. I get my dose of energy by working out in the mornings and spending time with my daughters, who are my biggest support.

Automation and AI

in the textile business

Vardhman as a group believes in continuous technology upgrades and automation. To maintain the technological edge we have invested in the best production technologies from Europe and Japan.

Further, a lot of manual processes are now being automated for better quality and higher productivity. For example, auto drawing technology, automatic doffing in spinning, automated robotic central warehouse at Budhni and installation of conveyer belts (from inspection to packing) in advanced material handling in fabric divisions.

Another initiative has been to install machine-wise data collection and monitoring systems to monitor productivity, efficiency, utilisation, down time and utility consumption in real time.

A must-read book on management

A book I love is How Remarkable Women Lead: The Breakthrough Model for Work and Life by Joanna Barsh, Geoffrey Lewis, Susie Cranston.

This book is a powerhouse, and truly inspired me. It explains five crucial elements of centred leadership —meaning, framing, connecting, engaging and energising. I believe every woman should read it.

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