Under Forty: Rajat Kedia (Manjushree Technopack)

When did you decide to join the business?
I had never decided on anything else. I guess, the importance of joining the business was embedded in my DNA.

Where do you learn the tricks of the trade? In an executive education programme or on the job?
My education programme gave me a starting point to deal with people and situations but interacting with over 200 customers on the job, I learnt what to speak, when to speak and what not to tell them. It is a combination of both.

What is your greatest print / business achievement to date?
Identifying opportunities is, perhaps, the greatest achievement one can attain.

What technology has made the biggest difference to your business? The best break-through in packaging in the past hundred years.
Our R&D set up and in-house Tool Shop, has, perhaps, made the biggest difference to our business. The biggest break-through in packaging in the past 100 years has been the introduction of PET bottles and jars. I cannot imagine today’s quantum of beverage or food products being sold in alternates such as tin or glass.

The most frequently used mantra in your organisation?
Do not compromise on the quality of what you produce. It will pay back in the long term. This is a cliché for many but what the heck, it works every time.

If you won Rs 25 crores what would you invest in? Why?
I have a business venture in mind, which is quite secretive as of now. I will put my money in this venture. To give you a hint, it is in the business analysts space, primarily targeted at FMCG marketing companies.

One person who impressed you with wisdom. Why?
My father, Vimal Kedia, for his sheer determination to build a world-class company and is his no compromise attitude.

What’s the first thing you do on entering the office?
A two minute visit to the temple, then a 20 minute walk inside the factory, the next 20 minute to attend the morning meeting with the head of each department. 

When you see a great piece of packaging created by your competitor, what is your reaction?
Buy it. Take it to our R&D section and discuss it for technical and aesthetic finish. I do not remember complimenting any of the competitors, but deep down I have developed a great regard for them.