Session #14 | Curiosity, Courage & Confidence: Premal Desai on India, Innovation and Growth

<p>In this episode of Speciality Sessions, Natasha speaks to Premal Desai, CEO of hubergroup.</p><p>Known for its heritage in printing inks and packaging solutions, hubergroup is evolving into a broader specialty chemicals business. Premal shares how the company is navigating that transformation, what it means to lead through change, and why he believes India will play an increasingly important role in the future of global manufacturing and innovation.</p><p>The conversation explores leadership, supply chain resilience, talent, and the realities of managing a business through periods of significant transition.</p><p>From a personal story that brings Premal&#39;s career full circle, to practical lessons on transformation and growth, this episode offers valuable insights for leaders across the chemicals and manufacturing sectors.</p><p><u><strong>Chapters</strong></u></p><p>00:00 - Introduction to Premal Desai and hubergroup</p><p>01:20 - From Printing Inks to Specialty Chemicals</p><p>03:25 - Career Journey: From BCG and Steel to Chemicals</p><p>06:03 - A Personal Connection to India</p><p>08:16 - India&#39;s Growing Role in Global Manufacturing</p><p>11:13 - What Makes Europe-India Partnerships Work</p><p>12:48 - Talent, Innovation and Global Capability Centres</p><p>17:07 - Leading Through Transformation and Change</p><p>19:29 - What Leaders Need to Get Right During Change</p><p>21:42 - Growth in a Challenging Chemicals Market</p><p>22:28 - The One Huber Philosophy</p><p>23:10 - Supply Chain Resilience and Procurement Strategy</p><p>24:34 - Why Chemical Supply Chains Are Often Misunderstood</p><p>26:40 - Advice for the Next Generation of Industry Leaders</p><p>28:36 - From Being Right to Being Responsible</p><p>30:20 - Closing Remarks</p>