Rajesh Shah: Bringing Innovation & Efficiency To Business Operations Through Technology Alignment
Rajesh Shah
CIO
Rajesh Shah has extensive experience in software development/implementation of ERP, with a focus on automation to minimize errors and optimize resources in various domains including manufacturing, sales, distribution, trading, and FMCG. He has successfully managed programs and projects as a resource partner, interfacing with customers and internal stakeholders to ensure the delivery of their needs and requirements.
Below is an excerpt of Rajesh Shah’s exclusive interaction with CEO Insights magazine.
You possess over twenty-eight years of experience. How has your journey been so far and what is your success mantra?
I have always been a big believer in thinking outside the box and taking a different approach to problem-solve. When it comes to integrating automation into existing processes, I try to strike a balance between innovation and practicality. By doing so, we can achieve unique and efficient solutions that ultimately reduce the potential for human error and dependence.
As a leader, I understand the significance of the emotional state and welfare of my team, especially those who are fresh to the team or those who hold junior roles. Their positive mindset and active participation can have a remarkable influence on the excellence of their output, which in turn, can uphold the satisfaction of our esteemed customers.
At the same time, I understand fostering a collaborative and respectful work environment. That's why I always make sure to work alongside my team members, listen to their ideas and opinions, and incorporate their feedback into our projects. By doing so, we can achieve great results together and continually improve our processes.
How would you define H.K. Designs as an organization and its current position in the market?
H.K. Designs, a subsidiary of the esteemed Hari Krishna Group, is a trailblazer in the world of creative and innovative designs. Since its inception in 2006, the company has been at the forefront of developing and providing a vast assortment of diamond and gemstone jewelry to retail chains, department stores, wholesalers, and online sellers across the globe.
With a formidable workforce of more than 9000 talented professionals, the group's revenues surged beyond $1.7 billion in the preceding year. All of its factories have been certified by RJC and ISO, and the company has a sprawling operation space of over 50,000 sq. ft. which is equipped with the state-of-theart SAP ERP System, ensuring seamless transactions and meticulous data management.
Tell us about your leadership approach, and the guidelines or methodologies you follow to lead your team.
As a firm believer in team dynamics, I prioritize building trust and boosting the reliance of my team members. For any task that I lead, I ensure that my team is well-equipped with the necessary skills
At the same time, I understand fostering a collaborative and respectful work environment. That's why I always make sure to work alongside my team members, listen to their ideas and opinions, and incorporate their feedback into our projects. By doing so, we can achieve great results together and continually improve our processes.
To excel as a CIO, it's crucial to focus on the root issue rather than providing a temporary fix
How would you define H.K. Designs as an organization and its current position in the market?
H.K. Designs, a subsidiary of the esteemed Hari Krishna Group, is a trailblazer in the world of creative and innovative designs. Since its inception in 2006, the company has been at the forefront of developing and providing a vast assortment of diamond and gemstone jewelry to retail chains, department stores, wholesalers, and online sellers across the globe.
With a formidable workforce of more than 9000 talented professionals, the group's revenues surged beyond $1.7 billion in the preceding year. All of its factories have been certified by RJC and ISO, and the company has a sprawling operation space of over 50,000 sq. ft. which is equipped with the state-of-theart SAP ERP System, ensuring seamless transactions and meticulous data management.
Tell us about your leadership approach, and the guidelines or methodologies you follow to lead your team.
As a firm believer in team dynamics, I prioritize building trust and boosting the reliance of my team members. For any task that I lead, I ensure that my team is well-equipped with the necessary skills
to tackle challenges with confidence. While I don't spoon-feed them solutions, I offer hints that allow them to explore and research on their own, thus enhancing their competence. With a motivated team striving for success, every task becomes a happy accomplishment, resulting in an overall triumph.
Tell us about your CSR initiatives. How do you encourage your employees to participate in them?
H.K. Designs has always been committed to making a positive impact on society. Through the Dholakia Foundation, the company has spearheaded a range of environmental, educational, and charitable initiatives. A portion of the company's sales is dedicated to these initiatives, including building 110 lakes in Gujarat to combat water scarcity, planting over two million trees in India as part of its 'Go Green' revolution, and conducting medical camps for employees. The Founder, Savji Dholakia, has also been recognized for his social work with the Padma Shri Award in 2022. The company's culture places a strong emphasis on CSR, with regular communication and forums to keep employees aware of progress and impact. Senior management sets an example by actively participating in each CSR activity, inspiring employees to get involved and make a difference.
What would you say are the top ingredients to the success of a CIO?
To excel as a CIO, it's crucial to focus on the root issue rather than providing a temporary fix. I harmonize the processes with the company's goals while avoiding dependence on the system. By comprehending the pressing challenges and realigning the system to follow the flow of processes, I secure speedy acceptance from users. As a result, I'm able to swiftly implement fresh systems and proceed to accomplish the next objective.
Rajesh Shah, Chief Information Officer, H K Designs
Rajesh Shah completed his B.Com from Idar Arts and Commerce College and began his professional journey with Venus Jewel. In his professional journey of 28 years, Rajesh has been part of various renowned companies like Crest Synergy, Softcare Solutions, JB & Brothers, and Kama Schachter Jewelry.
Tell us about your CSR initiatives. How do you encourage your employees to participate in them?
H.K. Designs has always been committed to making a positive impact on society. Through the Dholakia Foundation, the company has spearheaded a range of environmental, educational, and charitable initiatives. A portion of the company's sales is dedicated to these initiatives, including building 110 lakes in Gujarat to combat water scarcity, planting over two million trees in India as part of its 'Go Green' revolution, and conducting medical camps for employees. The Founder, Savji Dholakia, has also been recognized for his social work with the Padma Shri Award in 2022. The company's culture places a strong emphasis on CSR, with regular communication and forums to keep employees aware of progress and impact. Senior management sets an example by actively participating in each CSR activity, inspiring employees to get involved and make a difference.
What would you say are the top ingredients to the success of a CIO?
To excel as a CIO, it's crucial to focus on the root issue rather than providing a temporary fix. I harmonize the processes with the company's goals while avoiding dependence on the system. By comprehending the pressing challenges and realigning the system to follow the flow of processes, I secure speedy acceptance from users. As a result, I'm able to swiftly implement fresh systems and proceed to accomplish the next objective.
Rajesh Shah, Chief Information Officer, H K Designs
Rajesh Shah completed his B.Com from Idar Arts and Commerce College and began his professional journey with Venus Jewel. In his professional journey of 28 years, Rajesh has been part of various renowned companies like Crest Synergy, Softcare Solutions, JB & Brothers, and Kama Schachter Jewelry.