The process automation industry is a rapidly growing sector that involves the use of technology to automate processes, tasks, and workflows. This industry has revolutionized the way businesses operate and has led to in­creased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Usha Rani Manne Founder-Di­rector of Polmon Instruments is making a significant impact in this industry. With her extensive background in electronics engineering and MBA degree, Usha has been a key player in the growth and success of the company. She is responsible for defining systems and policies, industry-academia linkages, staff welfare, culture-building ac­tivities, CSR goals, and ensuring the operational readiness of infrastructure facilities. Her leadership and commitment have earned her International recognition as “The International Women Entrepreneurial Challenge award in 2020 & Pratibhabhisheka award from WCIC, Srilanka under the SAARC category in 2023. With Usha's vision and dedication, Polmon Instruments continues to empower the life sciences industry with innovative process automation solutions.

Can you describe your previous work experience and your leadership skills?

Polmon operates under the principle of ‘customer is our product designer’ and employees are encouraged to listen to customer feedback and challenge established practices. Failure is accepted, and employees are given the freedom to experiment with new ideas. This culture has led to the creation of successful products. During the pandemic, when many workers were forced to return home, Polmon had to quickly adjust its operations to ensure business continuity. This involved unexpected expenses, developing new local vendors, and implementing virtual communication techniques. As the person responsible for Finance, HR, and Operations, she had to enhance her technological abilities, flexibility, and risk assessment skills to manage hybrid teams effectively. Despite the challenges, Polmon was able to deliver high-quality products without any interruptions.

Can you provide an overview of Polmon Instruments, including its origins, focus, and specialties?

Polmon Instruments was founded in Hyderabad, India almost 30 years ago to provide automation solutions to the pharmaceutical industry. The company specializes in automation solutions that replace manual operations to ensure batch consistency and aid in digital transformation. Polmon is a top choice for bespoke instrumentation, measuring, control, and consultancy solutions for over 1300 pharmaceutical companies throughout India. Each year, Polmon delivers nearly 10,000 instruments and completes over 50 automation projects nationwide. The company currently operates in Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru, and Baroda, with three manufacturing facilities totaling approximately 150,000 square feet.

What do you consider to be the most difficult aspects of leading a business in today's climate, and what steps do you take to overcome these challenges?

I identified two challenges - competing with multinational companies and retaining talent resources. As an innovation-driven company, Polmon actively participates in major pharmaceutical expos such as CPhi and Achema and organizes seminars in major Indian cities to showcase the latest trends in automation. The company has grown organically over the past 30 years by delivering bespoke, innovative, high-quality products, completing projects on time, and providing post-installation service. Polmon's target consumer is the API manufacturing industry in India. Despite competing with international automation companies such as Siemens, Emerson, and ABB, Polmon's unique selling point lies in its deep understanding of its customers' requirements, nimble teams, and business processes that can be upgraded at any point in the project lifecycle. To overcome the challenge of retaining talent resources, the company has created learning platforms, onsite working opportunities, and training and development programs that include in-house and external technology workshops, soft skills development, work-life balance initiatives like sports and cultural activities, and work-from-home facilities.

Tell us about the top three milestones you have achieved throughout your professional journey.

The establishment of Polmon takes pride in being part of the ecosystem that provided essential services to the life sciences industry. Secondly, during the pandemic, the company continued its operations without any disruption, implementing safety measures to ensure the well-being of employees.

Lastly,taking up the challenge of Chairperson –the Leadership role for the dynamic Hyderabad chapter of FICCI Ladies Organization a PAN-India body of women entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and professionals - with 19 Chapters across India and honoring 14 distinguished women at FIWA - FICCI FLO Influential Women awards 2021, which was a successful event.

What qualities do you possess that make you an effective leader? What strategies have you implemented to achieve success?

Despite facing pressure to take shortcuts, I do not compromise my values and always lead by example. I make it a priority to communicate my vision to my team members and show them that their contributions are highly appreciated. As the Director of Finance, I oversee Polmon's financial performance and ensure that we have a healthy cash flow position. Although my team is given full authority to make decisions, they consult me for complex issues that require experienced judgment. Drawing from my three decades of experience, I guide them toward making the best decisions for Polmon's success.

What advice would you give to women aspiring to become business leaders and entrepreneurs?

I believe that power is only as good as the way it is used. Every one of us has the ability to make a positive impact. Passion, curiosity, and a strong sense of independence are crucial qualities that drive me, and I cherish them. Planning is the key to success, and I plan my day on a daily basis. I wake up early, practice yoga, and gain perspective on things. Mornings bring me peace, and I feel proud of knowing what I need to achieve on a given day and how to balance my work and personal life.

Usha Rani Manne, Founder & Director, Polmon Instruments

Usha Rani possesses a Diploma in Electronics Engineering as well as an MBA (Executive) qualification obtained from OUBS, UK. She initiated her professional journey by working for Greaves Semiconductors located in Hyderabad, where she remained employed for a duration of 7 years. Afterward, she was bitten by the entrepreneurial bug and went on to establish Polmon Instruments where she currently serves as the Founder-Director.