For Hom Neupane, CEO of Nebico Group of Companies, his 23 years of career journey have been a rewarding and fulfilling one. He has worked in various roles and capacities in different organizations over the years and has a treasure trove of experience in the FMCG sector. Since 2008, he has been leading the pioneering Nepali biscuits company Nebico Pvt. Ltd. as the CEO.
In a conversation with the HRM, Neupane shared his professional journey experiences, talked about the current state of the Nepali FMCG industry and his advice to young professionals. Excerpts:
Q: Tell us about your first job.
A: Professionally, I am a dedicated food technologist with a steadfast commitment to advancing my career within the food industry. My journey began in 2000 when I joined the Kabra Group. In 2002, I assumed roles and responsibilities within the production department at the Chaudhary Group. Over the years, I gained valuable experiences and opportunities for growth, eventually transitioning to Nebico Pvt. Ltd. in 2008, where I took on the role of CEO.
Q: What lessons did you learn from the job?
A: My professional journey as a CEO has been enriched with profound lessons, including the significance of integrity, unwavering commitment to tasks, steadfast loyalty, and the importance of setting precise objectives. A resolute focus on targeted goals has been instrumental in my achievements. As I’ve advanced, I’ve come to appreciate that success is an outcome of the harmony between personal honesty and dedicated exertion—a principle that remains a cornerstone of my philosophy.
I firmly believe that my success thus far is a result of my authenticity to self and dedication to work, both of which have guided me on a path of accomplishment and recognition.
Q: How did the initial experiences prepare you for future jobs? What were the challenges for you initially?
A: Experience stands as one of the most invaluable assets for any professional. I firmly subscribe to the notion that experience serves as both a roadmap and a mantra, guiding us toward the exploration of new opportunities in the future. It represents a treasury of knowledge, akin to a carefully curated notebook, where solutions to numerous challenges can be readily retrieved. These challenges often mirror those we’ve encountered and resolved in the past.
In today’s dynamic business landscape, one of the paramount challenges is the nuanced understanding and effective management of people. The ability to recognize and harness the potential within individuals is a fundamental skill that can facilitate the achievement of organizational objectives. Equally vital is the capacity to comprehend the intricacies of the business environment. A profound understanding of market dynamics and the identification of promising marketing opportunities are pivotal factors in the success of any enterprise.
Q: What major achievements were there for you professionally and personally?
A: Professionally and personally, I consider recognition, stability, job security, and satisfaction to be the foremost achievements. These pillars collectively define my sense of accomplishment and fulfillment in both spheres of my life.
Recognition serves as a validation of my efforts and expertise, not only affirming my contributions but also motivating me to continually excel. It is a testament to the value I bring to my professional endeavors, as well as a source of personal pride.
Q: You have been in the FMCG sector for over two decades. How do you observe the growth of the sector over these years?
A: Honestly speaking, the FMCG sector is currently experiencing a period of degrowth. I find it challenging to identify compelling factors that could drive substantial growth in this sector at the moment.
Firstly, the policy landscape outlined by the central bank is not particularly conducive to fostering the growth of the FMCG sector. Secondly, the volatility in raw material prices presents a significant hurdle; it can disrupt supply chains, increase production expenses, and erode profit margins, making it challenging for FMCG companies.
Furthermore, the political landscape in Nepal has been marked by instability which further exacerbates the challenges faced by the FMCG sector. Political uncertainties can create an environment of uncertainty and hinder business operations.
Lastly, the presence of immature entrepreneurship within the sector is another contributing factor to its degrowth. The success and growth of the FMCG industry often depend on the innovation and adaptability of entrepreneurs.
Q: As an executive leading a pioneering biscuit and confectionery company like Nebico which has been operating since 1964, what do you think are the factors behind the company’s longevity?
A: The enduring success of a company frequently relies on a blend of factors, including but not limited to the consistent quality of its products, the culture within the organization, the strength of customer relationships, effective supplier management, employee contentment, proficient cash flow management, and the leadership and management skills of its team.
Q: How is Nebico competing with other domestic and foreign brands?
A: Nebico has established itself as a renowned and beloved brand among Nepalese consumers since 1964. Rather than competing with other brands, we have carved our own niche in the market, placing a strong emphasis on delivering quality products at affordable prices. Our deep understanding of consumer behavior guides our every decision, ensuring we align with their interests.
Furthermore, we have consistently modernized our production facilities, transitioning to electric power and adopting cutting-edge technology to meet evolving consumer demands. One of our key competitive advantages is the strategic location of our main factory in the Kathmandu Valley, where we have access to a significant market. Additionally, the enduring legacy of our brand strengthens our position, giving us a distinct competitive edge.
Q: As a professional, how do you see the career prospects for young graduates in the FMCG sector?
A: Currently, the FMCG industry may not appear to offer extensive career opportunities or a particularly vibrant landscape due to the challenges and circumstances I mentioned earlier. However, individuals who are dynamic, competent, and firmly believe in hard work and dedication still possess the potential for a promising future in this sector.
Q: What do they need to have to become successful professionals?
A: For those aspiring to succeed as professionals in this industry, I recommend not succumbing to over-ambition. Instead, focus on cultivating a passion for your work, aligning your efforts with your genuine interests. Keep yourself updated with industry trends, and most importantly, maintain unwavering integrity throughout your career. These principles can serve as a sturdy foundation for a successful and fulfilling journey in the FMCG sector.
