Mrinal Jain is the Head of Business Operations & Strategy at Kadam Haat, where he applies a pragmatic approach enhanced by empathy to lead operations and strategy. His career spans significant roles, including leading The State Plate, a D2C venture showcased on Shark Tank India and later acquired, showcasing his keen insight into scaling operations. Mrinal’s extensive background in various operational capacities has equipped him with a sharp ability to identify strategic opportunities and drive impactful, data-driven decisions. Passionate about sustainability, he embeds Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) principles into Kadam Haat’s core, advancing initiatives that fulfill 11 Sustainable Development Goals and uplift 10,000 artisans.
How do you approach business operations and strategy at Kadam Haat?
I follow a very pragmatic approach with a pinch of human touch when it comes to Business Operations in general, and to operations in particular. My approach to strategy is optimistic yet realistic, always backed by extensive research and data-driven decisions. In my view, the most critical strategies for startups are people management and process management. In this handcrafted industry, my mantra for achieving results at all levels is to ensure that “EQ=IQ,” if not “EQ≥IQ.” Our artisans, whom we officially refer to as our Artisan Business Partners (ABP), often go above and beyond during a crisis—when approached with love, care, and respect. This approach, of course, extends to other business teams as well.
How do you approach sustainability and social responsibility in your business model?
At Kadam Haat, Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) principles are central to our business model, fulfilling 11 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We prioritize sustainable practices by sourcing materials directly from our Artisan Business Partners and minimizing waste and energy in production. Committed to fair trade, we ensure artisans receive equitable compensation and community support. We empower local craftsmen through training and resources, preserving their traditional skills and enhancing livelihoods. Additionally, 99% of our packaging is recyclable. Through our NGO, Kadam India, we partner with government agencies and CSR programs to uplift remote villages, impacting 10,000 artisans directly. This holistic approach creates significant social and environmental impact.
How has your experience in various operational roles shaped your approach to business strategy?
My experience across various operational roles has greatly influenced my approach to business strategy at Kadam Haat. Building The State Plate—featured on Shark Tank India Season 1 and later acquired by Just My Roots—immersed me in all aspects of D2C operations. This taught me the importance of efficient order packing for enhanced customer satisfaction and reduced operational costs. Strategic negotiation has refined my ability to create win-win scenarios that benefit both the business and partners. This hands-on experience informs my decision-making, allowing me to quickly identify potential challenges and opportunities. A deep understanding of operational intricacies helps me create practical and impactful processes and strategies, ensuring seamless workflow while upholding our commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Overall, my diverse operational background has equipped me with the insights necessary to drive Kadam Haat’s growth effectively.
How do you stay ahead of trends and innovations in business operations and supply chain management?
Staying ahead of trends and innovations in business operations and supply chain management requires a multi-faceted approach. I prioritize continuous learning by subscribing to industry journals, attending webinars, and joining professional networks to stay informed about emerging technologies like AI and blockchain and best practices. I also use data analytics to identify patterns and forecast trends in our operations. Engaging with thought leaders at D2C summits and international craft conferences provides diverse insights that foster innovation. Promoting adaptability within my team, we regularly review and assess processes for efficiency. Collaboration with artisans and partners keeps us aligned with industry advancements and adopting new solutions. These strategies ensure we remain agile and proactive in responding to market changes.
How do you continue learning and developing new skills in such a dynamic industry?
In the dynamic “Handmade x D2C” industry, I prioritize continuous learning by focusing on customer feedback and market trends. Engaging actively with customers through surveys, social media, and direct interactions provides insights into their preferences and pain points, directly informing product development and marketing strategies. I attend training sessions and events on D2C best practices, from e-commerce optimization to storytelling, and network with artisans and D2C entrepreneurs for valuable insights. Experimenting with new techniques fosters creativity, while regular analysis of customer data and market trends helps me adapt to evolving demands. This combination of hands-on experience, community engagement, and data-driven insights drives my growth. I also read one self-improvement or business book monthly. Daily reading and gym sessions maintain a balanced, productive routine.
