Mr. Mahasan “Yai” Thieravarut, Managing Director of The Siam Forestry Company Limited, has worked under SCG for nearly three decades already. During his interview with P-DNA, he presented interesting work tips and encouraged everyone to have the courage to “grasp” opportunities and do something new.
ENHANCE YOUR CAPABILITY THROUGH NEW CHALLENGES
Joining SCG first as an analyst for The Siam Cement Public Company Limited, Mr. Mahasan spent about two years handling the transport of cement and building materials. He then won scholarship to further his studies at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT). After his graduation, he returned as the chief of production planning for SCG’s automotive business. His new job was quite a big challenge because he had to supervise staff who were older and more experienced in the production field. But thanks to this job, he got a good opportunity to do something he had never done before.
“When SCG started laying down its own fiber optics in 1995, I helped with IT affairs and Japan-based TQM (Total Quality Management) model. So, I was later invited to set up quality management system based on ISO 9000 too. After accepting the invitation, I worked alone but successfully completed the task with the counseling help of my respected acquaintances. When 3G technologies arrived, I was among the first to use SIM cards to track transport vehicles,” he revealed.
“I always say ‘Yes’ to opportunities coming my way. I trust that my seniors know how to put the right man in the right job. Even though I may need to start from scratch in my new position, I see that as an opportunity to expand my knowledge.”
ENTRY INTO PACKAGING BUSINESS
In 2011, Mr. Mahasan stepped into packaging business as he was reassigned to manage Siam Kraft Industry Company Limited’s inventory and transport affairs. During the stint, he was most proud of setting up an automated warehouse for the firm. After that success, he landed in a new position at The Siam Forestry Company Limited.
The Siam Forestry Company Limited in SCGP has provided integrated eucalyptus services. Its services cover variety development, seedling sales, counseling on planting, and purchases of eucalyptus wood from farmers. Presently, its business has expanded to agricultural products under Khudin brand. “In the beginning, Khudin sold just organic fertilizer. At the time I moved to the firm, this brand was still little known. To boost sales and raise brand awareness, we have decided
to develop chemical fertilizer and various other farming products under the brand. Today, Khudin’s reputation has increased. We target small retailers and enjoy continued sales growth because they support quality products. At the same time, we have helped them with promotions,” Mr. Mahasan said.
ATTITUDES MATTER THE MOST
Mr. Mahasan’s good attitudes shine in his career. Optimistic, courageous, and ready to face all challenges, he focuses on pursuing his work goals. If obstacles arise, he tackles them even when they are not directly under his job responsibility. He is also inspiring. As an executive, he always motivates his team members to take up new challenges for shared goals.
“I don’t sit inside an ivory tower. I always go to work sites to see how staff have worked. I also encourage them to speak up so that we can address problems together. To innovate things, failures may happen. It is just that we must learn to prevent them from recurring. For example, when we first deployed agricultural drones, staff were reluctant to fly the devices out of concern that any crash would cost dozens of thousand baht. I nudged my team to fly the device though.
It really crashed one day. I did not ask why it plunged to the ground. I just asked my team how to prevent such crashes in the future. Learning by doing, my team has developed more skills and we can now make good use of drones,” Mr. Mahasan explained.
“In addition, I have reiterated that my staff should have Plan B ready. What if Plan A won’t work? We have to look ahead. Think what will happen, prepare many plans, and keep pace with trends,” he emphasized.
“I would like to inculcate good attitudes in everyone. Be open to new things and keep improving yourself. Do not stick with old work methods. Aside, do a lot of exercises to stay fit both physically and mentally. When we face problems, don’t get stuck. Move on,” he continued.
“Last but not least, our firm has very good management tools and technologies. So, you should use them to improve yourself and your organization. Let’s go world-class!” he concluded.