Every mistake provides an excellent learning opportunity. Tata Motors provides an excellent environment to experiment without any fear of failure.
Q: What was your first automotive job and why were you interested in the industry?
A: My first job was with Tata Motors. I am a second-generation Tata Motors employee and my father's conversations with me about the industry made me interested in it from my early days.
Q: GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT?
A: I was part of the team that conceptualized and developed a new product called Ace, a small commercial vehicle that created a new segment in India. This product was a business success. Receiving personal recognition from Mr. Ratan Tata was my proudest moment. Having the opportunity to lead the Tata Nano project was a great personal achievement.
Q: BIGGEST FAILURE AND WHAT IT TAUGHT YOU?
A: Every mistake provides an excellent learning opportunity. Tata Motors provides an excellent environment to experiment without any fear of failure -- that accelerates learning.
Q: WHAT ABOUT THE AUTO INDUSTRY SURPRISED YOU?
A: While the growth of the auto industry in the BRIC markets was expected, the rate at which it has happened is surprising. It also helps that we are part of this growth story in India.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT CHALLENGE AT WORK?
A: To develop and manufacture cars that excite customers. With the growth in India's passenger car industry, customer needs are evolving and maturing. Making a product that excites customers and shareholders equally is the challenge.
Q: WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED?
A: Nothing worthwhile is ever achieved without deep thought and hard work.
Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A PERSON CONSIDERING A CAREER IN THE AUTO INDUSTRY?
A: There is tremendous scope for innovation in the auto industry, whether in products or processes. The industry provides an exciting opportunity to those with an innovative and creative mind.
Q: IF YOU WERE CEO OF A COMPANY WHAT WOULD YOU DO FIRST?
A: Set the long-term vision/aspiration based on industry and market analysis, and follow it up with a strategy to achieve it.
Q: WHAT JOB DO YOU REALLY WANT TO HAVE IN THE FUTURE?
A: A job in which one can make a meaningful contribution to all stakeholders -- customers, shareholders, partners, employees and society.
Q: WHAT DO YOU DO TO RELAX?
A: Exercise, read and spend time with family.
Q: FIRST CAR?
A: Tata Indica, India's first locally designed car.
Q: CURRENT CARS?
A: Tata Manza and Tata Nano.
