Fresh perspectives: Women leaders driving change — The Noel D’Cunha Sunday Column

Manjusha Singh, Siegwerk India

Manjusha Singh, the first female CEO of Siegwerk India, has significantly impacted the company and the packaging industry. With over two decades of experience in B2B sales and marketing, her leadership comes at a crucial time for Siegwerk, which has seen consistent double-digit growth in India. Singh’s approach is guided by two core values: safety and service. She explains, “Product safety is paramount,” highlighting the company’s leadership in packaging safety with innovations such as toluene-free and mineral oil-free inks.

Singh is also deeply committed to sustainability, stating, “It is no longer an option; it is a top priority.” Siegwerk has focused on solutions for the circular economy, including deinkable primers and barrier coatings to enhance recyclability. Her extensive experience across international markets has been invaluable, particularly in navigating India’s changing regulatory landscape. She notes, “Regulatory frameworks, such as FSSAI and PPWR, have driven industry changes.”

As the first woman to lead Siegwerk India, Singh promotes openness and inclusivity, which she believes are natural traits of women in leadership. “Openness has the power to transform teams,” she reflects. Her leadership also prioritises digital transformation, with investments in tools like SAP and Microsoft Dynamics to improve operations and customer interactions.

Singh’s commitment to corporate social responsibility is evident in her work with educational initiatives, which have empowered young girls to pursue higher education. Looking ahead, she is determined to balance sustainability with cost competitiveness, ensuring that solutions benefit both customers and the environment.

Mehzabin Nair, Skanem India

Mehzabin Nair, managing director of Skanem India, brings over two decades of expertise to the packaging industry, with a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. Her approach centres on driving efficiency, sustainability, and technology to strengthen Skanem India’s market leadership.

Sustainability plays a crucial role in the company’s plans. Nair highlights, “Skanem India is dedicated to adopting eco-friendly materials, recyclable liners, and biodegradable adhesives.” Investments in water-based inks and energy-efficient equipment aim to reduce the company’s carbon footprint.

The label industry is rapidly evolving, driven by digitalisation and sustainability. Nair sees AI-driven automation and eco-friendly materials transforming the market in the next five to ten years. She adds, “Innovation and sustainability will drive growth, and Skanem India is ready to lead this transformation.”

Skanem India’s hybrid approach to printing allows the company to meet diverse customer demands efficiently. Nair explains how the company uses a combination of flexo and digital printing technologies to optimise production. “By leveraging automation and lean processes, we achieve cost-effectiveness while delivering premium, sustainable labelling solutions,” she says.

Customer satisfaction is a key priority for Skanem India. Nair concludes, “We build long-term relationships by offering tailored solutions, exceptional service, and unwavering quality.” Looking ahead, sustainability remains central to the company’s strategy for continued success.

Somya Mittal, Manik Printpack

Somya Mittal, director of Manik Printpack, is transforming the packaging industry by blending innovation, sustainability, and efficiency. Under her leadership, the company has evolved from humble beginnings to a trusted partner for global brands. 

Mittal, with a background in computer engineering and an MBA from IIM Rohtak, has introduced significant reforms, including the implementation of an ERP system. “In an industry still anchored in traditional methods, technology is the bridge to efficiency and scalability,” she explains. This tech-first approach has streamlined procurement, reduced delays, and cut raw material wastage by 30%.

Manik Printpack’s success lies in its ability to balance aesthetics and functionality. The company collaborates with brands like FirstCry, Havells, and Polycab, offering solutions such as spot UV & embossing and structural optimisation. Mittal’s research-driven methodology allows brands to refine packaging strategies, using advanced design software to analyse material performance and consumer appeal, cutting development timelines by 25%.

Mittal brings a unique perspective to problem-solving. “Packaging isn’t just about protection—it’s storytelling,” she says. Her approach focuses on identifying customer pain points and offering tailored solutions.

Looking to the future, Mittal aims to drive automation and AI-driven design tools, with a focus on intelligent packaging. “Innovation thrives where diverse perspectives collide,” she concludes, reinforcing her commitment to both internal collaboration and client success.

Kalyani Roy, Flexo Image Graphics

Kalyani Roy, director of Flexo Image Graphics (FIG), reflects on her journey in the print and packaging industry. “I was fascinated by the vibrant packaging of chocolates and the colourful graphics in storybooks. It made me wonder where these glossy colours came from,” she recalls.

Roy’s role at FIG began with technical and operational duties but soon expanded to encompass strategic planning, innovation, and customer engagement. She believes women bring unique strengths to the industry, particularly creativity and problem-solving. “Women bring fresh ideas and an innate inclination for innovation. They prioritise client needs and uphold a level of dedication that drives excellence,” she explains.

Despite facing gender-related challenges, Roy emphasises resilience. “The key is to demonstrate that women can perform just as well, if not better,” she asserts. Her advice to aspiring women professionals? “Keep learning, tackle challenges head-on, and break barriers.”

Roy champions work-life balance, staying motivated through continuous learning and effective planning. “Growth comes from pushing yourself and inspiring others,” she notes. At FIG, the team functions like a family, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Roy envisions a future where women continue to lead and redefine industry standards, stating, “Women are sharp, innovative, and offer fresh perspectives.”

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