A seasoned expert in the packaging industry, he has navigated transformative shifts in marketing strategies over a 25-year career. His journey from a sales engineer to a marketing director reflects his adaptability and visionary leadership. Emphasizing sustainability, leveraging technology, and understanding consumer behaviour have been central to his success. He has cultivated talent and managed crises with resilience, ensuring his company's growth and innovation. This dynamic leader is Prasenjit Banerji.
The rapid advancement of technology, particularly in digital marketing and data analytics, has been a game-changer for Prasenjit Banerji. He integrates these tools into his marketing strategies to drive success. Business as usual has changed due to technology. This change is demonstrated by usage of LinkedIn for professional networking and ERP solutions for data management. Participating in packaging exhibitions with display stalls allows direct engagement with customers, broadening market reach and streamlining operations.
Prasenjit Banerji's journey in the packaging industry began with Signode International, acquired by Illinois Tool Works (ITW), where he spent nine years and eventually became the Regional Manager. His responsibilities in ITW Signode included heading the Banking Segment across India. Later during his tenure with Bhushan Steel he was responsible to establish distributor network in all the major cities in India. He then headed Indian operations for MJ Mallis Group, a Greek multinational, before shifting to flexible packaging with Tanvika Polymers in 2012 where he was responsible for Marketing as well as plant operations. In his subsequent organization Krisflexipacks while handling the domestic and export business he was awarded for the highest new customer development during the Covid Phase.
Currently, as the Marketing Director of Gujarat Print Pack, Prasenjit Banerji focuses on developing new clients and segments on a pan-India basis. The company serves various industries including Agro-chemicals, Cosmetics, FMCG, Food & Beverages, and the client list includes P&G, Nivea, Amul Dairy, Pidilite, Dabur, UPL to name a few.
Prasenjit Banerji believes in continuous self-improvement. During his tenure with Bhushan Steel, he completed a senior management program from IIM Calcutta. He also completed Advanced Business Management from IMT Ghaziabad and Chief Marketing officer program at IIM, Lucknow. Currently, he is pursuing a Doctorate of Business Administration (International Business) from Rushford University, Switzerland. Prasenjit Banerji has been recently selected for international management program by IIM, Bangalore conducted by Dr. Henry Mintzberg, set to begin in September.
Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability has become a critical focus in the packaging industry, driven by consumer demand and regulatory requirements. Gujarat Print Pack Publications has implemented several initiatives to address this. “We have developed biodegradable solutions and significantly reduced waste generation. Our focus is on developing products which will promote recycled materials. Additionally, our investments in solar power and rainwater harvesting reflect a strong commitment to sustainability, with plans to double solar generation capacity in the next year. We are ISO 14001 & ISO 45001 Certified company and also BRC (A Grade) & Ecovadis Silver Certified", says Prasenjit Banerji.
Understanding consumer behaviour is crucial in marketing, and Prasenjit Banerji emphasizes leveraging consumer insights to drive innovation. Feedback is gathered through surveys and direct interactions at exhibitions, also, one significant innovation driven by consumer feedback was the introduction of Minimum Order Quantities convenient to clients without any cylinder development charges. Customers especially the Startups wanted lesser inventory with better printing quality, and this innovation has not only improved product appeal but also enhanced the company’s public image.
Furthermore, Prasenjit Banerji also highlights a technological balance achieved by combining digital and roto-gravure technology. In rototechnology, high quantities are required, and there’s a cylinder cost. Digital technology, while not requiring high quantities, is expensive. The introduction of a system fitting between these two technologies catered to low quantity needs without the cylinder cost, directly responding to consumer feedback.
The packaging industry operates within varying market dynamics, necessitating tailored marketing strategies for different regions. Prasenjit Banerji emphasizes the importance of market research to understand local preferences, cultural norms, and economic differences. Balancing local effectiveness with global branding is essential. Local teams adapt core information into strategies unique to their markets, creating impactful and cohesive marketing approaches. Prasenjit Banerji’s extensive experience & forward-thinking approach have positioned him as a visionary leader in the packaging industry's marketing domain
Cultivating Future Marketing Leaders
As a seasoned marketing leader, Prasenjit Banerji is passionate about mentoring talent within his team. He emphasizes creating an innovative and collaborative culture where team members feel valued. Adaptability, innovation, and a data-driven approach are essential qualities for the next generation of marketing leaders. Prasenjit Banerji encourages continuous learning and bold risk-taking, fostering a solid foundation for future success.
Moreover, in managing crises with resilience, throughout his career, Prasenjit Banerji has faced various crises, from economic downturns to supply chain disruptions. He underscores the importance of adaptability, resilience, and effective communication in managing such challenges. During peak seasons, lead times and order prioritization are common issues. By working closely with the supply chain team and utilizing SAP ERP systems for real-time data tracking, these challenges are overcome. Transparency with clients about delivery times helps maintain customer satisfaction.
Looking ahead, Prasenjit Banerji identifies sustainability, biodegradability, and recyclable materials as primary concerns for the packaging sector. Marketing professionals need to prepare for the shift to bio-based sourcing and alternative materials. Custom packaging solutions tailored to specific customer needs will also gain popularity. Investments in ecofriendly processes, improving material recycling capabilities, and deploying rapid pouching machines to enhance productivity are crucial steps Gujarat Print Pack Publications is taking to stay ahead. By adapting marketing methods to highlight these advancements, Prasenjit Banerji ensures the company remains at the forefront of meeting future market demands and regulatory standards.
In conclusion, Prasenjit Banerji’s extensive experience and forward-thinking approach have positioned him as a visionary leader in the packaging industry's marketing domain. His insights into evolving marketing priorities, the integration of technology, commitment to sustainability, leveraging consumer insights, and navigating regional market dynamics provide a comprehensive blue print for future marketing leaders in the industry.
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