M B Chandrasekaran : Innovating The Sleepscape Through A Discourse On Mattress Manufacturing
M B Chandrasekaran
Chief General Manager
In an intimate interview, M B Chandra sekaran shared his life journey and gave us several insights into the mattress manufacturing industry.
Could you share the factors that have fueled your professional journey's growth and what motivates you presently?
A mechanical engineer by profession, I completed my PGDM in production management. I have been a member of the UT and this has helped me to provide the right guidance that budding engineers can seek in manufacturing processes. Being a Naval Veteran, I served in the Indian Navy in Aviation division from 1985 to 2000. Later on, I joined Pyarelal Group of Industries, in Palakkad as a Manager in 2000. Currently with 24 years of experience in the company, I have been given the charge of CGM and managing company operations with more than 15 manufacturing lines of various products.
Manufacturing of mattresses and accessories is what our company focuses on. One reason that drives the challenge constantly is the struggle to come up with innovations in the mattress manufacturing industry. We constantly strive for backward integration, introducing innovative products that present new challenges but are also incredibly fascinating. The nature of work here makes us move from one product to another once a successful launch is
done. So talking about my motivation, this continuous and rigorous cycle is what serves as a driving force for learning and adapting to new work routines, making every day an exciting and dynamic experience.
Could you explain your experience in ensuring efficient operations and how you ensure that every department you oversee stays aligned with the executive goals and achieves them smoothly?
Decentralisation was one technique that we used for about 15 manufacturing lines. We commenced with one line of product, wherein we gradually built a team, training every personnel for the recurring tasks and they eventually produced an expertise with the technical details within the production process. This setup empowered individuals to make independent decisions regarding their assigned tasks. As a result, each unit became self-sufficient, and all manufacturing units became interconnected. This inter connectedness ensures smooth transitions between products, facilitated by leaders in each unit who oversee the process.
Could you provide an overview of Pyarelal Group of Companies and describe its current market position?
The Pyarelal Group of Industries with its presence all over India, began its operations back in 1980. Under the able leadership, which is spearheaded by a visionaryMotilal Goel and its directors Aditya Goel and Pulkit Goel, the South unit was started in 1995. It underwent expansion, which marked the beginning of its significant growth. The company now specializes in manufacturing raw materials for the entire mattress industry, including flexible PU foam, rubberized coir, low melt fiber, latex, memory foam, pocketed springs, knitted fabrics adhesives, narrow woven tapes, and PVC-coated fabrics, among others. These products are produced in-house, showcasing the company's technological capabilities. The company's South unit has a presence in five locations in Palakkad, Kerala, and also works through agents in various regions.
Can you share your leadership style and the principles or strategies you use to guide and manage your team effectively?
Our leadership strategy is centered on empowering individuals to understand and take ownership of their roles, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous
Could you explain your experience in ensuring efficient operations and how you ensure that every department you oversee stays aligned with the executive goals and achieves them smoothly?
Decentralisation was one technique that we used for about 15 manufacturing lines. We commenced with one line of product, wherein we gradually built a team, training every personnel for the recurring tasks and they eventually produced an expertise with the technical details within the production process. This setup empowered individuals to make independent decisions regarding their assigned tasks. As a result, each unit became self-sufficient, and all manufacturing units became interconnected. This inter connectedness ensures smooth transitions between products, facilitated by leaders in each unit who oversee the process.
Leading a team isn't just about giving instru- ctions; it's about ensuring that the team understands the vision & intent behind each action
Could you provide an overview of Pyarelal Group of Companies and describe its current market position?
The Pyarelal Group of Industries with its presence all over India, began its operations back in 1980. Under the able leadership, which is spearheaded by a visionaryMotilal Goel and its directors Aditya Goel and Pulkit Goel, the South unit was started in 1995. It underwent expansion, which marked the beginning of its significant growth. The company now specializes in manufacturing raw materials for the entire mattress industry, including flexible PU foam, rubberized coir, low melt fiber, latex, memory foam, pocketed springs, knitted fabrics adhesives, narrow woven tapes, and PVC-coated fabrics, among others. These products are produced in-house, showcasing the company's technological capabilities. The company's South unit has a presence in five locations in Palakkad, Kerala, and also works through agents in various regions.
Can you share your leadership style and the principles or strategies you use to guide and manage your team effectively?
Our leadership strategy is centered on empowering individuals to understand and take ownership of their roles, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous
learning. We prioritize grooming second line leaders to ensure organizational resilience and sustain ability, enabling seamless transitions and effective teamwork. Through ongoing training, mentorship, and opportunities for skill development, we cultivate a versatile team capable of stepping into leadership positions when needed. By promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and a culture of leadership at all levels, we ensure that our team members are not only capable in their roles but also prepared to drive the success and continuity of the organization.
What strategies do you use to inspire and boost employee morale while fostering a positive work environment that enhances productivity?
Employees are motivated through several means of rewarding lucrative pay and allowances as per their expertise, acknowledgement of their efforts, and fostering a healthy work-life balance. We ensure that their tasks are completed efficiently, providing incentives and opportunities for timely promotions as further recognition. As a result, a significant portion of our workforce comprises long-term employees who have been with us for over a decade, showcasing their dedication and satisfaction with the work environment and incentives provided.
What methods do you use to stay informed about the latest industry trends and developments?
We gather detailed information from industry events and conferences where we often have our booth. Attending these events regularly helps us stay updated on the latest developments and trends in the industry. We actively share and discuss the latest advancements with industry leaders, ensuring that we are up to date with industry standards and can effectively handle imported machinery. For instance, we were the first company in India to install two QFM Multiplex foaming machine from Hennecke, Germany, known for its leading manufacturing plants. We have incorporated new products and technologies to keep pace with industry advancements.
M B Chandrasekaran, Chief General Manager, Pyarelal Group of Companies
M B Chandrasekaran, boasting a rich background as an industry veteran with 40 years of profound experience in the Naval Aviation and manufacturing sector, embodies a rare combination of leadership, dedication and determination. His stead fast commitment and unwavering resolve serve as guiding forces, propelling the team towards consistent and remarkable success in their day-to-day operations. He is a Rotarian from Rotary club of Palakkad, FIETE from Institution of Electronics and telecommunication engineers.
What strategies do you use to inspire and boost employee morale while fostering a positive work environment that enhances productivity?
Employees are motivated through several means of rewarding lucrative pay and allowances as per their expertise, acknowledgement of their efforts, and fostering a healthy work-life balance. We ensure that their tasks are completed efficiently, providing incentives and opportunities for timely promotions as further recognition. As a result, a significant portion of our workforce comprises long-term employees who have been with us for over a decade, showcasing their dedication and satisfaction with the work environment and incentives provided.
What methods do you use to stay informed about the latest industry trends and developments?
We gather detailed information from industry events and conferences where we often have our booth. Attending these events regularly helps us stay updated on the latest developments and trends in the industry. We actively share and discuss the latest advancements with industry leaders, ensuring that we are up to date with industry standards and can effectively handle imported machinery. For instance, we were the first company in India to install two QFM Multiplex foaming machine from Hennecke, Germany, known for its leading manufacturing plants. We have incorporated new products and technologies to keep pace with industry advancements.
M B Chandrasekaran, Chief General Manager, Pyarelal Group of Companies
M B Chandrasekaran, boasting a rich background as an industry veteran with 40 years of profound experience in the Naval Aviation and manufacturing sector, embodies a rare combination of leadership, dedication and determination. His stead fast commitment and unwavering resolve serve as guiding forces, propelling the team towards consistent and remarkable success in their day-to-day operations. He is a Rotarian from Rotary club of Palakkad, FIETE from Institution of Electronics and telecommunication engineers.