Tehmasp Printer, MD, IGI India answers 15 questions in 15 minutes.
1. What is your job like?
My job is to manage operations for IGI in India.
2. What does your secretary think about you?
I suppose she thinks I am generous and full of life.
3. What’s the smartest business idea you have ever had?
The launch of Mobile Labs, a service which provides jewellery manufacturers and showrooms across various markets, with a facility to have our exports grade diamonds and the gemstones onsite.
4. And the most embarrassing?
Agreeing to walk the ramp at a fashion show for a client.
5. Who has been your biggest influence?
Undoubtedly, Ratan Tata.
6. How important is money to you?
Money is very important to me but definitely not the most important thing in my life. I believe that as long as you have enough of money to provide for yourself and your loved ones, that’s all that matters.
7. What is your most important work ethic or maxim that you practice every day?
I take a walk around the entire office once a day. This is a work ethic I strictly practice on a daily basis.
8. Has your personal life suffered due to work?
Never, as I always managed to strike a healthy balance between my work and personal life.
9. How do you want you to be remembered by your colleagues?
A supportive and approachable boss.
10. What are your working hours?
9:30 am to 6 pm.
11. What is the most valuable memento in your office?
The most valuable memento in my office by far is the ‘Diamond of India’ trophy that IGI presented to Amitabh Bachchan to commemorate the 30th anniversary of IGI Worldwide in India.
12. Does retirement scare you?
No. In fact, retirement would be an opportunity to wander off with my books to remote places and enjoy every bit of it.
13. Have you ever been tempted to start out on your own?
No. Currently IGI manages to fully satisfy all of my entrepreneurial instincts.
14. What do you hate the most at work?
I wouldn’t like to use the word hate; but yes, there are a few things at work which I dislike, but they surely can be worked upon.
15. How do you unwind?
I like to relax, read and spend time with family and friends. Also I enjoy taking my dog, Bella for a walk on pleasant evenings.
