Radhika’s professional journey is marked by her dedication, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Her diverse roles, coupled with her adaptability and innovation, have contributed significantly to her success in various domains. With her unique blend of skills and experiences, she continues to lead her organization towards new heights while making a positive impact on the waste management industry in India.

Engaging In an idiosyncratic conversation with Women entrepreneur magazine, Radhika shares with us the nuances of her professional milestones, challenges faced and much more. Let’s hear it from her.

You possess over the last three decades in the industry. How does your prior experience empower you to be a better leader today?

My journey in the industry spanning over three decades has been an invaluable asset in shaping my leadership today. It has provided me with a deep understanding of the intricacies, challenges, and opportunities that exist within the landscape of reverse logistics and sustainability. The long-term success and sustainability of any organization are intrinsically linked to the strength of its processes and the ethical principles it adheres to. Over the past six years, our journey has been a testament to the importance of these principles. Guiding employees accustomed to different work paradigms and instilling a process-oriented mindset proved to be a significant undertaking.

“Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to innovate and make a positive impact on the world.”

What are the various responsibilities that you shoulder at Reverse Logistics Group?

In my role, I bear the crucial responsibility of managing both the top and bottom lines of our business. This involves assembling a proficient team well-versed in environmental and mechanical engineering to assess product quality and value, particularly for end- of-life products. Auditing the entire value and supply chain is essential, given our focus on electronic waste. Safe transportation and storage are non-negotiable, considering potential hazards. Adherence to Central Pollution Control Board guidelines is a must. We've incorporated technology for meticulous record-keeping and compliance. Our overarching goal is to shift from traditional waste disposal to responsible recycling, promoting a sustainable and eco-conscious future for generations to come.

What are some of the most critical challenges you encounter in your current role, and do you overcome these roadblocks?

I believe that the biggest challenge I've encountered is in mentoring and leading the newer generation. This challenge stems from the abundance of conveniences they enjoy, from easy access to transportation to a wealth of information at their fingertips. In our reverse logistics business, we are not only tackling the dynamic nature of the industry but also striving to instill discipline and a strong work ethic in our team to effectively implement the processes we are creating. While market and regulatory dynamics will always evolve, adaptability and a unified goal remain key to success in this ever-changing landscape.

Tell us about the professional milestones you have achieved over the years? What has been your success mantra?

One of my most significant life milestones was earning my bachelor's degree in the early '90s from a renowned women's college in Southern India. This achievement was particularly remarkable as pursuing higher education, especially for women, was rare in our region. My educational journey, complemented by a disciplined upbringing instilled by my mother, granted me the fortitude to conquer various challenges in both personal and professional life.

However, my proudest accomplishment goes beyond my career success; it encompasses the values and opportunities I've bestowed upon my daughter. Her growth fills me with immense pride and joy.

How do you keep yourself well aligned with industry trends and evolutions?

In our industry, staying updated is crucial, given our focus on regulatory matters. We actively engage with various industry associations and closely monitor government regulations to ensure we are well-informed about any changes that may impact our business. A dedicated risk and compliance team is tasked with conducting extensive research and maintaining a comprehensive repository of data on environmental advancements and technical innovations. To further bolster our knowledge base, we regularly bring in young, tech-savvy talents, providing them with opportunities to work on coding projects and engage in research. Our approach is not just about passively consuming information but also encouraging a dynamic flow of insights within our organization.

Radhika Kalia, Managing Director, Reverse Logistics Group

Radhika Kalia commenced her professional journey in 1993, armed with an MBA. She embarked on her career at Phoenix International, spending eight years in finance and accounts. Transitioning to Samsung, Imate and HT Media in Realty domain gaining expertise in media relations, sales, and marketing. In 2010, she joined Panasonic, where her responsibilities encompassed corporate affairs, government relations, and technical regulations significantly impacting environmental regulations for consumer electronics. Since 2017, Radhika Kalia has been at the helm of the Reverse Logistics Group, overseeing its remarkable growth in India's reverse logistics sector. She is also the President of Clean to Green Society, a not-for-profit organization which is striving to unite the people of the world in a quest for a safer and cleaner earth.