The world of business is one of diverse ideas, constant innovation, and celebration of excellence. Many entrepreneurs look to businesses that resonate in niches, and perform in exciting new spaces, instead of competing in saturated markets. Yet, companies that produce the ‘basics’ need to be celebrated as well. And considering that all entrepreneurs need tyres to get from point-A to B, looking to the manufacturers of carbon black can provide some valuable lessons in efficiency, leadership and success.
Processed primary goods such as steel, rubber and other manufacturing essentials are often the foundation for a functioning economy, and Orion Carbon Engineering – a leading carbon black manufacture in sub-Saharan Africa – is a perfect example of how strong leadership, expert manufacturing, and professional engineering creates jobs and stimulates innovation in our city, and beyond. We had the opportunity to chat with managing director, Roland Loganathan, about how OEC delivers a vital product the modern South African economy, and how he contributes successfully to the growth of our city.
To start, please tell us a little bit about yourself and how long you’ve been with OEC?
Well, I’m originally from Kwa-Zulu Natal, but I currently live in the bay with my wife of 22 years, and our two boys. I have extensive experience in manufacturing and engineering, and have been with OEC for nearly 7 years, heading up all South African operations. Actually, this October is officially my 7th year anniversary with the company.
Aside from being the only carbon black manufacturer in sub-Sahara, give a brief description of the company to help our readers understand where OEC comes from and what you do there?
While the South African office started as a joint venture with Phillips and IDC in 1959, the company originally comes from Germany and started nearly 150 years ago. OEC is one of the largest global manufacturers of carbon black, which is core ingredient in rubber, tyres, ink and cabling. In South Africa, our location deals with manufacturing and distribution of carbon black.
As a leader in your organization, what do you think is vital to success in your line of work?
First, having a clear vision and purpose for the work one does help ensure people are motivated to pursue goals, as well as being clear about what is needed to be done. From there, pushing to be a leader in an industry guarantees that organizations adapt to markets, trends, and new concepts. Furthermore, it is important to be passionate about the product or service you are selling.
And what about the importance of human capital?
People are vital to the success of an organization. For a business to be successful, it must motivate personnel and drive the right outcomes. To do this, education, training, and intellectual stimulation must exist within the workplace. However, one must not be lost in the crowd. Individualized consideration of performance and investment from an employee must be applied to ensure rewards and recognition are given for good performance. I believe all of this empowers people to excel in their workplace.
Moving away from the internal structures of OEC, how does your company operate within nearby communities?
Our goal to create a safe and sustainable working environment extends into our communities. We believe in minimizing the ecological impact, which involves participating with communities, both socially and environmentally.
It is fantastic to hear that global companies such as OEC are focused on sustainability and community engagement. So, what do you do outside of working hours to keep yourself sane with all this responsibility?
Well, OEC develops and empowers managers to take ownership of their own departments, which provides an autonomous working environment where leadership can make decisions at the point of need. More personally, I am a Christian, and constantly thank the Almighty God for the guidance and understanding I find in him. Finally, I have hobbies such as angling, hunting and hiking that keep me in touch with nature, and help me maintain patience. The sound of waves really heals the soul.