On an equal footing - Women in Print

In the patriarchal print industry, women are battling the prejudices and proving a point. Besides being technologically sound and providing administrative differentiation, the new woman bring expertise to the firm’s product enhancement. Featuring: Swati Paul, managing director, APL Machinery

22 Apr 2015 | By Rahul Kumar

What is your educational background?
I am a commerce graduate. I have also completed ICWA (Intermediate), and have undergone a
Leadership Training Programme.
 
What kind of responsibilities do you have at APL Machinery?
I look into administration with the focus on purchase and finance.
 
Being a woman entrepreneur, what are the advantages and disadvantages?
Advantages include streamlining of purchasing, handling of maximum number of women staff, production planning and keeping an eye on finance. Among disadvantages, personally for me, I cannot get into manufacturing due to my non-engineering background.
 
Please share a brief on your experiences about your journey since you have joined the organisation?
It’s been six years and I have thoroughly enjoyed the journey. I have learnt a lot about the printing industry and have met many people. With my consistent efforts, I have saved a lot of money in purchase. I have travelled around the world, attending exhibitions as an exhibitor or as a visitor.
 
What kind of policies have you implemented and what has been the result?
I have worked on the aesthetics of machines and use of quality products in manufacturing. The result is that our machines are being accepted in the market in India as well as in the other parts of the world. I have worked on team building as well.
 
What is your insight for the industry?
It’s a growing industry. If we focus on quality and customer satisfaction, then sky is the limit.
 
Your views on women participation in equipment manufacturing in Graphic Art Industry…
In my view, participation of women is increasing in manufacturing of equipment. This, in turn, is inspiring other women to follow. Women are more particular about work and have a system of strong follow-up.
 
What do you do when you are not working?
I like listening to music, going to dinners with my family and surfing the net to learn new things. I am also fond of painting.