Rajiv Poddar on air on BKT Network.The third generation of BKT in an exclusive talk

The third episode of the Inspiring Talks has aired on BKT Network, the series of previously unseen interviews transmitted on BKT's digital TV which take viewers behind the scenes of the extended family of BKT professionals.

Guest of this new episode is Rajiv Poddar, Joint Managing Director of BKT.

Work, family, sport, food and other passions: these and many other issues are covered in the talk, starting from his experience in managing the business of BKT.

Rajiv, you are part of the third generation of the BKT management team, is that right?

That's exactly right. It was my grandfather, Mahabirprasad Poddar, who founded the company taking on the role of chairman, while now it is led by Arvind Poddar, my father. So yes, I represent the third generation of the Poddar family in managing the business.

What memories do you have of your grandfather?

I certainly remember him as a pioneer, a great leader and innovator. People used to call him “the Father of the tire industry” for his visionary contribution to this sector. I am really proud of everything he did, and even more so because still today he is remembered affectionately and with respect by people who work in the tire industry.

I know that before working at BKT Headquarters, you worked at company's production plants. Could you tell us something about that experience?

Sure, I started my career at BKT's production facilities where I worked for almost a year, thus acquiring notions on the various processes of each department.

I worked in the Engineering & Maintenance division before moving on to Human Resources and finally Production, where I had the chance to be involved in making the tires. It was an essential experience for my personal and professional growth.

Changing subject, what does growing up in a family of entrepreneurs mean?

Of course business becomes a part of everyday life from a very early age.

In this way it is really easy to assimilate business attitudes and skills which are normally acquired only after several years' experience and work. In my family these are the assets which are passed down from generation to generation and which perfectly represent our motto, “Together is Perfect”.

On this, “Together is Perfect” is also the motto you use for your sports sponsorships. Do you like sports?

Anyone who knows me knows I love sport, whether it is kabaddi, cricket, soccer or any other team sport. I believe that sport has a lot to teach people: above all how to work in a team and support your colleagues, while at the same time respecting your opponents. This great passion I have for sport is in fact reflected in BKT's sponsorships.

It must be great for you to combine business with your passion.

It certainly is, even if the reality is much more complicated. Let me explain: remaining competitive today is only possible thanks to the involvement of professionals who do their work with passion to achieve the company's goals. Competition, passion and the desire to achieve the goals set are the values which unite BKT and sport. The sports world is truly fascinating: fans become one with their favorite team when they need to back them in an important match. 

So, in reality, it is not just a question of combining business and my passions: it is really about sharing values.

And can sport be considered as a model when we talk about sharing values?

I am convinced it is an important showcase for the promotion of positive values in society in general. By showing these values on and off the field, sportspeople can become truly positive role models to follow, especially for the young.

Regarding young people, certainly the fact that you started to work so young can be a source of inspiration for many of them. What would you like to say about this?

Starting to work when you are young certainly offers a series of advantages. One of these is that people with much more experience usually tend to share their know-how and skills and tricks of the trade. Then, as times passes and with more experience, you become increasingly independent and can find your own path.

Who inspires you the most, from both a professional and personal viewpoint?

I must admit that both my grandfather and father are sources of great inspiration for me, above all for the way in which they interacted, and interact, with people both inside and outside work. I still have a lot to learn from them.

Now some more personal questions. I know you have two wonderful daughters. What do they mean for you?

They mean everything for me, like all fathers, I adore them. The best moments for me are those spent with them.

I imagine your role in BKT entails a lot of travel and staying away. How do you manage to reconcile your work and private life?

It's true, I travel a lot and to various parts of the world for work, but I can't complain: during trips away I have the chance to meet a lot of people and see numerous places. However, I admit that on those occasions I really miss my wife and my daughters. It is also true that technology helps a lot however: we often do video calls to stay in touch. In this way I can be close to them wherever I am.

And what can you tell us about your wife? Does she work in the company too? How long have you been married?

My wife Khushboo and I have been married for over 12 years. And yes, she works in the company too. In fact she has played an essential role in implementing BKT's management software.

Another curiosity: your favorite city.

Without question London. I lived in that metropolis for six years and it was a second home for me.

Let's talk about food now: do you like to cook?

Yes, above all Italian food: pasta and risotto are the two dishes I am best at.

Are you a Netflix type or do you watch TV? And what is your favorite film?

Definitely Netflix. I prefer comedies. I could watch all the episodes of Friends in just two days, for example.

Thank you. A final question, which is now a must for our Inspiring Talks.

What is your greatest passion?

Very easy, my greatest passions are my family, my work and sport.

Here is the original episode in full:
www.bkt-network.com/inspiring-talk-rajiv-poddar-episode