"Life is too short and there is so much to learn." - Pooja Bhargava

Women entrepreneurs today are shattering glass ceilings by committing to global challenges and emerging stronger than ever. Through their expertise and experiences, they are inspiring women all over the world. Pooja Bhargava is the Director at Johns Automation System. In an exclusive interview with us, she takes us through her long-term experience in the industry and the company.

1.Give Us A Brief Overview Of Johns Automation System. What Are Some Important Features About Your Expertise As A Business Leader That You Want Us To Highlight Through The Article?

Johns Automation Systems aka "STUDIO JOHNS" is an authorized dealer of architectural lighting, office furniture and flooring solutions using premium brands from different parts of the world. Studio Johns is a part of Johns Electric Company established in 1978, situated in Sitapura Industrial Area, Jaipur. It provides design selection, supply and commissioning services for indoor and outdoor lighting.

My expertise is my proficiency in finance management which has made my organization self-sufficient, without any outer source funding, team building and getting things done in an organized structure. I can work under stringent deadlines and tremendous pressure and still deliver results. I have an educational background as a postgraduate from NIFT Delhi and I am now pursuing Masters in Lighting Design from Wismar Germany.

2.Take Us Through Your Early Educational Journey And Prior Industry Experience That You Bring To The Table. How Did You Grow An Affinity Towards Business Management?

I am a commerce graduate and I did my post-graduation in Garment Manufacturing Technology 1998-2000 from NIFT Delhi. I worked in the apparel industry for 12 years and was at the helm of affairs as VP-Operations before quitting. Then I lead a kids wear brand in India, Gini and Jony. Presently I am pursuing Masters in Architectural Lighting from Wismar, Germany, graduating in 2023.

I started my journey as a production planning system executive. The job entailed planning and managing. My ability to meet the set targets within deadlines motivated me towards better performance. Accounts and finance were always my favorite subjects and I topped academics. The combination of the two, operations and finance, has led to my affinity towards business management.

3.What Are The Various Roles And Responsibilities That Your Current Role As Director Entail At Johns Automation System? What Are Some Of The Most Challenging Aspects Of Your Job And How Do You Counter Them?

Johns Automation Systems offers niche products and caters to a specific kind of clientele, those who enjoy luxury and high-end products. The most challenging aspects of the job are training and retaining the manpower; customer satisfaction and retention; keep the finances flowing; and keeping a personal touch towards the business and the clients. The industry is ever evolving with pacing technology, thus keeping high with the trends is necessary. industry. One to one interaction with all prospective buyers, maintaining positive relations inside and outside the organization and having a positive attitude that we will succeed, are some of the basic things to keep us going.

4.What Is Your Leadership Mantra? How Has Your Journey Been As A Business Leader So Far?

I visualize, plan and execute. I also believe in investing in a robust team that stands by me and supports my vision. So, there is always someone that does it for me.

The journey has been challenging yet satisfying. I have worked my way up from the lowest rung of the ladder. From a production planning executive to Head-Production and Sourcing to VP-Operations and finally as the Director of Johns Automation, I take pride in every job I do.

“My advice to women entrepreneurs is to – have a vision. Believe in yourself”

The industry is ever evolving with pacing technology, thus keeping high with the trends is necessary. By keeping myself abreast with the latest market trends through magazines, seminars and periodically equipping myself with educational exposure has worked well in aligning myself with the developments in the industry.

5.Given The Demanding Nature Of Your Job How Do You Manage To Strike A Balance Between Your Work And Home Life?

My mantra for work-life balance is -delegate delegate and delegate! I believe in finding the right people and delegate what can be delegated to focus my energy of productive work. the day-to-day work to them so that I can concentrate on the more important aspects.

I love dancing. Am a trained Bharatnatyam dancer. Besides, being an avid cyclist and a swimmer keeps me fit. My advice to women entrepreneurs is to - Have a Vision. Believe in Yourself. Always learn from your mistakes and aim at progress not perfection.

Pooja Bhargava would love to explore horizons in future for professional and personal growth. She willinglytakes risks to challenge herself towards higher delivery targets.

Pooja Bhargava, Director, Johns Automation System

Pooja is an experienced Director with a demonstrated history of working in the design industry and setting up of large scale garment units. She holds a strong professional skilled in Trend Analysis, Retail, Textiles, Wovens, and Management.