In a world where progress is driven by vision and determination, true leaders stand out through their strong commitment to both their goals and the people they serve. The steel industry, constantly changing, requires not only technical skills but also a deep sense of responsibility toward sustainability, innovation, and community well-being. At the intersection of these values is BMW Industries Limited, a company well-known for its long-standing dedication to excellence, integrity, and making a positive impact on the steel sector in India.
Leading this dynamic company is Harsh Bansal, the Managing Director of BMW Industries Ltd. With a firm focus on ethical leadership and sustainable development, Mr. Bansal has guided the Organisation to achieve significant growth. Under the stable guidance of his father, the Chairman of the company, and with the support of his brother, with his leadership, BMWIL has established seven advanced steel processing centers across West Bengal & Jharkhand, consistently providing high-quality products and supporting industries throughout the country. Committed to trust, inclusiveness, and responsible citizenship, Mr. Bansal’s leadership emphasizes employee well-being and a clear vision for a more sustainable and fair future.
A Journey Forged by Family, Mentors, and Industry Legends
Mr. Harsh Bansal’s journey to becoming the Managing Director of BMW Industries Ltd. began early in his life, growing up in a family where business discussions were a regular part of everyday conversation. He often says, “Leadership is something to be earned and not taken for granted. When it comes to business, Business before family, always.” From a young age, he spent his school holidays and special occasions visiting the office with his grandfather, uncles, and father. Starting on the shop floor at Unit 1 in Salkia, Howrah, he was surrounded by inspiration. The stories he heard, the decisions made, and especially the reasons behind those decisions deeply influenced and shaped his thinking.
When he later worked at the Jamshedpur unit, the inspiring stories expanded to include those of the Tata group, which had a significant impact on him. Over the years, Mr. Bansal has also had the opportunity to lead organizations such as the YPO at both chapter and regional levels, experiences that have further shaped his leadership style.
Balancing Heritage and Modernity
BMW Industries Limited is “a very young company with an old soul.” The company prefers to keep things simple but does not hesitate to adopt new technologies or adapt to changing times. Founded in 1982, BMWIL has experienced several changes over the years, entering and exiting various businesses. Some changes were due to the culture of certain industries not aligning with the company’s values, while others resulted from significant shifts in the market.
Throughout these changes, BMWIL has remained true to its core principles of trust in people, faith in the system, ethical practices, and long-term thinking.
As the market evolves, BMWIL is committed to adapting while preserving its core values. Today, the company’s guiding principle is “Progress with Purpose.” This reflects its belief in working towards a larger, meaningful goal. BMWIL considers itself fortunate to have Tata Steel as mentors, which helps the company stay focused and aligned with its vision.
| Steel Product | Key Uses | Main Forms | Strengths |
| Long Products | Construction, Railways, Machinery | Rebars, Wire Rods, Beams | High strengthLoad bearing |
| Flat Products | Construction, Automotive, Appliances | Sheets, Plates, Coils | FormableCorrosion resistant |
Navigating Change with Empathy and Respect
Mr. Harsh Bansal believes that the biggest challenge for a family business owner or operator is “to be taken seriously by the older generation,” both within the family and at work. Many employees who worked with his grandfather, uncles, and father and now work with him tend to see him as a younger member since he has literally grown up in front of them. This perception often affects the professional environment, especially when he tries to introduce new Standard Operating Procedures or change existing ways of working.
He emphasizes the importance of handling emotions carefully in such situations, stating that “emotions are a valuable commodity and not to be taken lightly.” While it is important to respect the experience and wisdom that comes with long tenure, he believes that respect “has to be earned and not taken for granted.” Navigating these challenges with sensitivity and balance has been essential in maintaining the company’s growth and progress.
Listening to Customers, Leading with Results
Mr. Harsh Bansal emphasizes that BMW Industries has always prioritized putting its customers’ needs first, always front and center. He believes that if something benefits the customer, it will ultimately benefit the company as well.
One notable recent milestone has been the significant growth in the tubes vertical. For many years, this business saw little growth because customer demand was low. However, a few years ago, with a change in leadership and a more aggressive strategy, the company was encouraged to invest in this area. As a result, “our capacity grew multifold in just a couple of years, and there is more to come.” This progress has been highly motivating for the teams involved and encouraging for the company’s leadership. The investment has been well received by customers, adding “a little feather in our cap.”
Success Through Values and Vision
Mr. Harsh Bansal acknowledges that BMW Industries has built a strong presence over the years, but humbly notes that “we have had our share of failures and issues.” He believes that one constant throughout has been the company’s commitment to its values and faith in the long-term vision. He explains, “It’s a long-term bet, and things will be well.”
He adds that careful decisions—such as investing in the right plants, choosing to work with certain people while avoiding others, and deciding not to enter some businesses—have all contributed to the company’s strong and sustained growth. These well-considered choices have served BMW Industries well over the years.
BMW Industries’ Focus on Expansion
- Current Focus:
- Firmly rooted in the steel processing sector
- Upcoming Project:
- Developing a state-of-the-art plant in Bokaro, Jharkhand
- Will produce advanced coated steel products for the market
- Company Vision:
- A long-held goal finally coming to fruition
- Timing considered ideal for this important investment
Making Sustainability a Daily Practice
Mr. Harsh Bansal believes that “sustainability needs to become an inherent part of our thinking.” This mindset influences everything at BMW Industries, from the materials it uses to the design of its facilities, including the use of natural light and air.
The company began focusing on sustainable practices a few years ago, and Mr. Bansal is pleased to share that “the ownership is firmly with the young teams of the company.” Initiatives include replacing all lighting with LED, installing rooftop solar panels, and actively managing its carbon footprint. BMW Industries also recycles all waste and water and plants trees, going well beyond the requirements for statutory compliance.
He finds it rewarding to see the team enthusiastic about these efforts and to witness the positive results they are achieving.
Trust as the Foundation of Company Culture
Mr. Harsh Bansal believes that the team wants to see “a leader they can trust,” someone who truly lives by the values they promote. He explains that “trust is a very fragile thing—easy to break, very hard to earn.” It is crucial for the team to clearly understand what the leader stands for because any insincerity will quickly be noticed, making it difficult for the leader to guide effectively.
In today’s business environment, where many tangible tasks are increasingly handled by AI and machines, Mr. Bansal emphasizes that leaders must focus on cultivating and valuing the intangible qualities. He believes these intangible elements are what will shape and strengthen the company’s culture.
Preparing for the Next Wave in Manufacturing
Mr. Bansal believes that while global trends offer valuable perspectives, “it may not be appropriate to directly compare them with India’s situation.” He explains that India currently occupies a very favorable position in global growth.
On one side, traditional leading economies are experiencing nearly stagnant growth, while others are still recovering from the effects of excess liquidity during the Covid period. India has largely avoided these challenges due to “the quality and courage of our leadership at both the state and central levels.”
Regarding manufacturing, Mr. Bansal foresees a future with increasing automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies. He highlights the growing role of AI and big data for analyzing trends and determining the best strategies, as well as digital twins. In his words, manufacturing will become “more automated, connected, and intelligent.” Emerging leaders should closely watch these developments as they shape the industry’s future.
Learning as a Way of Life
Mr. Harsh Bansal is a strong believer in continuous learning, emphasizing that “learning is never over.” He stays motivated by reading, listening, and studying regularly. He considers himself fortunate to have been accepted into the Harvard Business School, OPM Program, from which he graduated last year.
Over the past 25 years, he has made it a point to take at least one week each year to focus on studying a new subject. He finds it both inspiring and humbling to be in a classroom surrounded by accomplished peers, reminding him that “there is so much more to do.” This commitment to ongoing education helps him remain ahead of the curve in a fast-evolving and competitive industry.
Open Letter to the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs and Leaders
Dear Future Entrepreneurs, Professionals, and Industry Leaders,
I am often amazed by how smart and capable the next generation is. Your grasp of concepts and principles is truly impressive. However, I sometimes worry about the many distractions you face in today’s fast-paced world.
My advice to you is to cultivate focus, patience, and long-term thinking. Remember, there are no shortcuts to success. As someone once told me, “You will not get to Heaven without dying”—a phrase that carries even more meaning in its original Hindi.
Stay committed to your goals, be patient in your journey, and keep your vision clear. The path may be challenging, but perseverance and dedication will lead you to lasting success.
With best wishes,
Harsh Bansal, Managing Director
BMW Industries Ltd.
5 Key Takeaways from Mr. Bansal’s Vision for Manufacturing
- Leadership is Earned, Not Given: Harsh Bansal believes true leadership comes from hard work and a deep commitment to goals and people, emphasizing that it’s something you continuously earn.
- Values are the Foundation of Success: BMW Industries thrives by sticking to core values like trust, ethics, and long-term thinking, even when faced with market changes or industry shifts.
- Customer Focus Drives Growth: By prioritizing customer needs, BMW Industries has seen significant growth in areas like its tubes business, proving that meeting customer demand ultimately benefits the company.
- Sustainability is a Mindset: Mr. Bansal champions sustainability not just as a requirement, but as an integral part of daily operations, with initiatives like solar panels and waste recycling driven by enthusiastic young teams.
- Continuous Learning is Essential: Despite his accomplishments, Mr. Harsh Bansal is a strong advocate for lifelong learning, regularly studying new subjects to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving manufacturing industry.
