Dikesh Malhotra, 29, is the president and CEO of Integrated Mobility Solutions (IMS), the first company in Nepal to officially import mobile phones in 1998. IMS currently runs 12 companies.
Malhotra shares with Prasuma Rawal of Republica his tricks and tips, motivation for work and about the business environment in Nepal.
What attracted you towards the business sector?
I have always followed footsteps of my father; he’s my biggest source of inspiration. Since childhood I wanted to become a businessman. I see a great scope in the field of business. There is still competition and risk. But there are many areas where we can contribute our ideas to simplify our hectic life. I am always willing to take risks and work hard. IMS also works in diverse areas, I find myself giving a lot to this sector.
What are some of the challenges you have faced so far?
I became fully involved with IMS since December 2012 and we have adopted a lot of changes. The industry itself has grown bigger and we have brought numerous changes.
There are more external factors involved in the business. We never know what turn the government might take this year, how the tax policies are going to be set; there are a lot of uncertainties. We also need to give extra money for reliable and efficient work.
Essential tests
What do you think influences growth of a company?
Skilled human resources are a major issue. Most young people go abroad in search of better opportunities without understanding the market here. There aren’t proper platforms that provide adequate training; the quality of education isn’t up to the mark. It’s hard to find workers giving their best and wanting to upgrade their quality. They are mostly satisfied with their position and the authority that has been provided. A manager needs to be sure if all of the workers are on the same page and if their vision syncs with that of the company.
How has IMS been contributing in the overall progress of our society?
We have provided employment opportunities to more than 500 people. I consider that as a great contribution in terms of economic development. Besides, we have tied up with Budhanilkantha and St Xavier's school to provide scholarships to the outstanding students for pursuing their higher studies. Before we used to donate money to various sectors but then we realized it isn’t that fruitful. Now we have established our own DM Foundation to work on some of the causes we strongly believe in.
What do you have to say to our new generation who are interested in this field?
Do not hesitate to work and be involved with many organizations from an early age. This is actually how you study the practical work environment, build network and know where you fit well. We are willing to do any level of work abroad but in our own country, we even hesitate to explore opportunities. Internship is a good way to explore the outside world while you are still in school.
