Full name: Barlow Manilal Current position: Acting CEO Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) Born: Durban Educated: Durban and Pretoria (Bsc Hons Industrial Engineering & Masters) First job: Toyota SA Manufacturers (Inventory Dept) How did you get involved in the logistics industry?: I was exposed extensively to this discipline during my time at Toyota and DaimlerChrylser but took a deeper interest when I joined the AIDC. The AIDC allowed me the freedom to explore this area and introduce initiatives to the automotive industry that were novel and innovative. I therefore moved away from the operational aspects to becoming creative in the strategic dimension of supply chain management. Most notable changes in the industry in your time: Most definitely the following three: • Advancements in ICT • Globalisation – SA being a global player and the impact and challenges of this • Significant economic growth manifesting itself in congestion, demand for resources, etc Most influential person in shaping your career: Everyone to whom I reported for trusting me and providing me with the opportunity to learn and grow – but most importantly my wife Kemantha for accommodating my career aspirations which resulted in many, many sacrifices on her part. Best personal achievement: Without doubt my family; they give me purpose and the greatest sense of self actualisation. Best professional achievement: Being part of the leadership at the AIDC. A single event would be presenting to a forum at the United Nations, Geneva. Greatest challenge that SA faces: • Being sentimental about our miracle transformation and not focusing on delivery; performance management and accountability are critical and should be a non-negotiable • Crime is paralysing our social and economic activity • Closing the gap between the haves and have nots Business icon you most admire: Richard Branson, an entrepreneur who is free-spirited and has fun while being an astute businessman. Most meaningful quote: My own quote “you cannot wish things upon yourself”. Favourite reading: Anything that’s informative. I read the Times everyday and a host of engineering and supply chain publications. Favourite airline: SAA and Swiss Air Favourite holiday destination: Cape Town, so much history and natural beauty Your views on Transnet Freight Rail: The name change was important to progress from the poor perception around “Spoornet”. Significant investment and organisational changes have been made that are bound to improve efficiency, profitability and value to its customers. There must be no room for complacency. TFR must provide a value proposition and not merely be a default option due to lack of competition. Your views on Zimbabwe: It’s sad for the people when a country rich in resources faces hyperinflation and economic meltdown; the impact that this has on SA should not be underestimated. Quiet diplomacy should be turned up a few decibels. Outside interests: National President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in SA (CILTSA)
