Strategic Guide for Manufacturing and Supply Chain Executives: Establishing Your Business in India in 2023

In the fast-paced and complex world of manufacturing and supply chain management, particularly within the dynamic Indian market, achieving streamlined operations and sustainable growth can be challenging. This guide provides invaluable insights and actionable strategies tailored for executives overseeing these critical areas, focusing on leveraging structured approaches to foster significant improvements in efficiency and profitability.

In the realm of global business, India’s market presents unique opportunities and challenges, especially for manufacturing and supply chain executives. As a key decision-maker, understanding how to navigate this terrain is crucial. Small changes in strategy and management can lead to substantial improvements in company performance.

For instance, consider a scenario where an international metal processing company faced a sudden leadership gap. The dual responsibilities of sales and operations management previously held by a single individual were separated to optimize efficiency. This separation is a strategic move, vital for companies operating in India’s intricate business environment.

The appointment of an Interim Head of Sales, focusing on maintaining existing client and dealer relationships and sustaining sales performance, is a vital strategy in transitional phases. In India’s competitive market, sustaining client relationships while undergoing internal changes is crucial.

Key measures such as budget planning, identifying and addressing risk areas related to personnel, agreements with dealers, and systematic sales processes are fundamental. In India, where market dynamics are constantly shifting, these factors become even more critical. The optimization of sales processes, including updating pricing strategies, clear pricing and procurement processes, and uniform negotiation guidelines, are essential for success. Additionally, a meticulous approach to accounts receivable can significantly reduce overdue payments.

Key Account Management plays a pivotal role in retaining major clients who might otherwise be lost amidst transitions. In manufacturing and supply chain sectors, where large contracts are often at stake, this aspect cannot be overlooked.

Structuring your team with clear guidelines and a robust anti-corruption policy is another cornerstone for success in India. Supporting the planning team in raw material and production planning, which alone can boost manufacturing productivity by 30%, is an example of how integrated approaches can yield substantial results.

The result of implementing these structured approaches is evident. In the case study, within just two months, the company witnessed a 5-50% increase in sales across its product range, far exceeding the initial goal of merely maintaining the status quo. This outcome demonstrates the potential for manufacturing and supply chain executives to not only navigate but thrive in the Indian market by adopting structured, strategic approaches.

Next Steps

To delve deeper into these strategies and explore how they can be tailored to your specific needs in the Indian market, we invite you to start a conversation with us. Our team is ready to provide you with the insights and guidance necessary to transform your operations and achieve sustainable growth in this vibrant and challenging market. Let’s begin this journey together and unlock the full potential of your business in India.