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

In this episode of Speciality Sessions, Natasha speaks to Premal Desai, CEO of hubergroup.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.The conversation explores leadership, supply chain resilience, talent, and the realities of managing a business through periods of significant transition.From a personal story that brings Premal's career full circle, to practical lessons on transformation and growth, this episode offers valuable insights for leaders across the chemicals and manufacturing sectors.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Premal Desai and hubergroup01:20 - From Printing Inks to Specialty Chemicals03:25 - Career Journey: From BCG and Steel to Chemicals06:03 - A Personal Connection to India08:16 - India's Growing Role in Global Manufacturing11:13 - What Makes Europe-India Partnerships Work12:48 - Talent, Innovation and Global Capability Centres17:07 - Leading Through Transformation and Change19:29 - What Leaders Need to Get Right During Change21:42 - Growth in a Challenging Chemicals Market22:28 - The One Huber Philosophy23:10 - Supply Chain Resilience and Procurement Strategy24:34 - Why Chemical Supply Chains Are Often Misunderstood26:40 - Advice for the Next Generation of Industry Leaders28:36 - From Being Right to Being Responsible30:20 - Closing Remarks