This fascinating story of an exemplary family enterprise, successful because of both technology and values, holds lessons for every entrepreneur and manager.
-T.N. Ninan, Former Editor and current Chairman, Business Standard
In 1996, Hema Hattangady took over as the CEO of Conzerv, an embattled family-owned firm based in Bangalore that manufactured digital energy meters. Over the next twelve years, she grew it to a Rs 100 crore market leader, which was also by then India’s largest energy-management company.
Right from the get-go, Hattangady’s vision for the company was global in its scope: from her vision for it to the product quality, from people practices to systems and processes. Conzerv also carved a unique niche for itself through its insistence on ethical business practices, a rare initiative in a sector marred by corruption.
In 2009, the company was acquired by Schneider Electric, and Hema Hattangady turned her attention to impact investing and community service. The firm’s organisational practices and business model were the subject of a Harvard Business School case study, a rare honour for an Indian firm.
An inspirational story of grit and determination, Lift Off is also an uncommon lesson in best business practices—and proof that they are sound strategy.
Product Details
- Hardcover: 256 pages
- Publisher: Westland (13 January 2020)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 9389152143
- ISBN-13: 978-9389152142
- Product Dimensions: 15.2 x 2.5 x 22.9 cm
About the Author
Hema Hattangady helmed Conzerv from 1996 to 2008 as CEO. An MBA from IIM Calcutta, Hema joined the business established by her father-in-law in 1990. Eventually, she was appointed CEO and successfully turned around the company before its acquisition by Schneider in 2008. Hema Hattangady helmed Conzerv from 1996 to 2008 as CEO. An MBA from IIM Calcutta, Hema joined the business established by her father-in-law in 1990 after a short stint in advertising and brand strategy. Eventually, she was appointed CEO of Conzerv and successfully turned around the company before its acquisition by Schneider in 2009.
Hema lives in Bangalore with her 94-year-old mother, husband Ashok, daughter Ananya and two cats. Son Raghav is in Cleveland, Ohio. Ashok and Hema share a passion for good food, gardening, humour, wellness and the fellowship of friends and family.
A graduate of King’s College, Cambridge University, Ashish started his career with the Business Standard, Ananda Bazar Group of Publications where he became Assistant Editor. He then ventured into development communications at ActionAid India, Voices and the World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (AMARC) Asia-Pacific. He currently divides his time teaching community media at institutions in India and abroad and is also a theatre practitioner. He is married to Munira. They live in Bangalore and have a son, Mikhail.
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