I was born and raised in Durban, but for about the last 16 years have lived and worked mostly in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs.
Every so often, I put on my safety shoes, hard hat and high-viz vest (safety first!) to visit our different manufacturing sites sprawled across various locations further east of JHB.
Of interest, I have a Masters in civil engineering: Storm water management, but I found my niche in techno marketing. I’m responsible for market analytics, technology, product, technical and sectoral developments related to building materials and the built environment.
I have been in the building manufacturing industry for over a decade. My studies and career started in civil engineering, with work experience in designing and supervising the construction of roads, buildings and water supply.
In my current capacity as techno marketing director for Saint-Gobain sub-Saharan Africa, I was recently appointed to the board of directors for the region.
I am responsible for assessing and formulating growth strategies and creating business opportunities by cross-linking markets, solutions and technologies.
New experiences with my family and the simple pleasures of good food and good company. I also cherish my personal reflection time.
Simply put… We make living, working and play spaces better! I love that we can innovate and introduce new products and technologies that improve daily life.
Daily operational-type meetings, emails, briefs, presentations, reporting and multiple conversations.
A positive can-do spirit and my team.
Generally, the industry is tough and what’s key is to remain relevant. Different ways of doing things are appropriate for different people.
Diversity, skills, retention of good people, continuous professional development and focus on ALL quotients – SQ+EQ+IQ+PQ = SUCCESS.
Multiple product developments and enhancements, retail and brand campaigns, customer events, targeted digital initiatives.
When I am out of the office environment. Usually during an evening walk, in the shower, over weekends. I guess when my brain isn’t feeling the pressure!
Hmm, no known party tricks…
Technophile! I’m up for any form of tech that can make life easier and increase productivity.
Family pictures, construction of buildings, product images, home décor and interior pics.
You are solely able to define your journey and destination (career, life, family, relationships).
Set goals, big ones!
Simple as that. Follow Gopichund on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram; and follow Saint-Gobain on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram feeds as well as their YouTube channel for the latest updates.
*Interviewed by Leigh Andrews.
