Session #14 | Curiosity, Courage & Confidence: Premal Desai on India, Innovation and Growth

In this episode of Speciality Sessions, Natasha speaks to Premal Desai, CEO of hubergroup. Known for its heritage in printing inks and packaging solutions, hubergroup is evolving into a broader specialty chemicals business. Premal shares how the company is navigating that transformation, what it means to lead through change, and why he believes India will play an increasingly important role in the future of global manufacturing and innovation. The conversation explores leadership, supply chain resilience, talent, and the realities of managing a business through periods of significant transition. From a personal story that brings Premal's career full circle, to practical lessons on transformation and growth, this episode offers valuable insights for leaders across the chemicals and manufacturing sectors. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Premal Desai and hubergroup 01:20 - From Printing Inks to Specialty Chemicals 03:25 - Career Journey: From BCG and Steel to Chemicals 06:03 - A Personal Connection to India 08:16 - India's Growing Role in Global Manufacturing 11:13 - What Makes Europe-India Partnerships Work 12:48 - Talent, Innovation and Global Capability Centres 17:07 - Leading Through Transformation and Change 19:29 - What Leaders Need to Get Right During Change 21:42 - Growth in a Challenging Chemicals Market 22:28 - The One Huber Philosophy 23:10 - Supply Chain Resilience and Procurement Strategy 24:34 - Why Chemical Supply Chains Are Often Misunderstood 26:40 - Advice for the Next Generation of Industry Leaders 28:36 - From Being Right to Being Responsible 30:20 - Closing Remarks