How did you start your business?
“When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, it brought unprecedented challenges to businesses and consumers alike. During this time, I noticed a significant demand for quality products at reasonable prices that wasn’t being met. This realization came when I visited the Mercato Market. It was an eye-opener; the market was bustling, yet there was a clear gap in what was being offered and what consumers were looking for, especially in terms of quality and affordability.
I conducted in-depth research at the Mercato Market, observing customer behavior and preferences. This market visit was crucial; it wasn’t just about seeing what was available – it was about understanding the unmet needs of customers. I realized that while there were plenty of products, there was a compromise either on quality or cost.
This gap in the market led me to strategize how I could fill it. I began planning a business model that prioritized both quality and affordability. The idea was to offer products that people needed and wanted without stretching their budgets, especially important during a time when many were facing financial hardships due to the pandemic.
My approach was to source quality products directly from manufacturers, reducing costs without compromising on quality. I also focused on building a robust online presence to make these products easily accessible, considering the restrictions and safety concerns during the pandemic.
Starting a business in such tumultuous times was challenging, but it was also an opportunity to address a real need. The pandemic, in a way, helped me to see and understand the market gap more clearly, and it guided the foundation of my business.”
What are your goals?
“Our primary goal is to continually enhance the value we offer to our customers. In the short term, this involves expanding our product range to more fully meet customer needs and improving our online user experience to make shopping with us more convenient and enjoyable. We’re also focusing on strengthening our supply chain to ensure product availability and timely delivery, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced market.
In the longer term, our objective is to become a leading player in our industry. This includes not only increasing our market share but also setting industry standards in terms of product quality and customer service. We’re committed to innovation, both in our products and in the way we do business, to stay ahead in a constantly evolving market.
Another key long-term goal is sustainability. We aim to implement more eco-friendly practices in every aspect of our operations, from sourcing to delivery. This commitment to sustainability is not just about reducing our environmental impact; it’s also about aligning with the values of our customers and contributing positively to the community.
Ultimately, our goals are about building a business that’s not only financially successful but also makes a positive impact on society and sets a standard for ethical, customer-focused, and sustainable business practices.”
What is your and your company’s biggest strength?.
Our company’s biggest strength, which is also a personal strength of mine, lies in our ability to innovate and adapt swiftly to changing market conditions. This agility has not only allowed us to stay ahead in a highly competitive industry but also to consistently meet and exceed our customers’ expectations.
From a company perspective, our strength is in our robust and flexible operational model. This enables us to quickly implement changes, whether it’s in response to new market trends, customer feedback, or technological advancements. Our team is highly skilled and motivated, and we foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement, which ensures that we are always at the forefront of innovation in our field.
On a personal level, my strength is in visionary leadership. I am deeply committed to driving our company forward, not just in terms of financial success but also in making a positive impact on our community and the environment. This vision and commitment are shared and embraced by our entire team, which creates a powerful, unified force driving our company.
Together, these strengths empower us to deliver exceptional value to our customers and to remain resilient and progressive in a dynamic business environment.”
What experiences and steps led you to the place where you are today?
“My journey to where I stand today has been a blend of purposeful decisions, continuous learning, and overcoming challenges. It all started with my early education and experiences. I was always fascinated by [mention a specific area or subject], which steered me towards [a specific field or industry]. This passion was further nurtured by mentors and early entrepreneurial ventures, which laid the foundation for my career path.
In my professional life, I’ve taken roles that challenged me and allowed me to grow. Each position taught me something valuable, whether it was about the industry, leadership, or innovation. There were key turning points, like when I decided to [mention a significant career decision], which significantly influenced my career trajectory.
A constant throughout has been my commitment to personal development. I’ve always believed in the power of learning, so I’ve continually sought to enhance my skills, be it through formal education or self-driven initiatives.
Building strong relationships has been another cornerstone. The network I’ve built over the years has been invaluable. It’s opened doors and provided support in ways I couldn’t have anticipated.
Of course, the journey wasn’t without its hurdles. I’ve faced challenges, both personal and professional, but these have only served to strengthen my resilience and problem-solving skills.
Finally, reaching my current role has been a cumulative result of all these experiences. Each step has been a building block, leading me to where I am today – more knowledgeable, resilient, and passionate about my work.”
Why did this industry interest you and how did you get started?
“My interest in these diverse industries – food, import-export, and chemicals – stems from a combination of personal passion and recognizing market opportunities. Each of these sectors has its unique challenges and dynamics, which I found intellectually stimulating and ripe with potential.
The food industry always fascinated me because of its universal and ever-evolving nature. People’s relationship with food is not just a matter of sustenance but also culture, health, and innovation. Seeing the potential for introducing new, quality food products that could make a difference in people’s lives was a major draw.
The import-export sector interested me due to its global scope. I was intrigued by the idea of connecting different markets, understanding international trade dynamics, and the impact of globalization. This industry requires a keen understanding of diverse cultures and market needs, which I found challenging and exciting.
As for the chemical industry, it was the blend of science and its practical application in everyday life that caught my attention. The industry’s role in various sectors, from agriculture to healthcare, and its potential for innovation and contributing to sustainability efforts, made it particularly appealing.
Getting started in these industries involved a lot of initial research and networking. I spent time understanding market trends, regulatory environments, and consumer needs. Establishing relationships with key stakeholders, suppliers, and industry experts was crucial. I also focused on building a solid business plan that addressed specific challenges and opportunities in each sector.
Moreover, my educational background and professional experiences played a significant role. They provided me with the necessary skills in business management, negotiation, and strategic planning, which were essential in navigating these industries.
Describe the biggest challenge you’ve had to tackle in running your business.
The biggest challenge in running my business was navigating the global supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It required rapid adaptation and a complete overhaul of our logistics strategy. We had to find new suppliers, renegotiate contracts, and optimize our inventory management to ensure product availability and maintain customer satisfaction, all while managing increased costs and keeping our prices competitive.”
What is a typical day like for you?
A typical day for me starts early with a review of key metrics and updates from different departments. I prioritize connecting with my team, often through brief meetings or calls, to align on daily goals and address any immediate concerns. A significant part of my day is dedicated to strategic planning and decision-making, focusing on long-term goals while also handling day-to-day operations. I also allot time for networking, client meetings, and exploring new business opportunities. Regularly, I reserve late afternoons for personal development and keeping abreast of industry trends. The day usually ends with planning for the next day and reflecting on the day’s achievements and lessons.”
What values have helped you overcome challenges in your career? Tell us about a time that you led others to success.
The values of resilience, adaptability, and collaborative leadership have been pivotal in overcoming challenges throughout my career. A key instance where these values came to the forefront was during a major project that faced unexpected regulatory hurdles. Our team was under immense pressure, facing tight deadlines and potential financial losses.
Embracing adaptability, I guided the team to pivot our strategy, focusing on innovative solutions rather than being hindered by obstacles. I fostered a collaborative environment where every team member’s input was valued, leading to a more creative and effective approach. Through resilient leadership, I maintained team morale, emphasizing our collective strength in facing adversity.
This approach not only helped us navigate through the regulatory challenges but also brought out the best in the team. We not only met our deadlines but also delivered a project that exceeded expectations, strengthening our client relationships and enhancing our company’s reputation. This experience underscored the importance of leading by example, staying agile, and harnessing the power of a united team.
What distinguishes your company’s services/solutions or products from those of its competitors? Tell us about the upcoming releases we should be aware of. How do you handle rapid growth and scale effectively?
What sets our company apart from competitors is our relentless focus on customer-centric innovation and sustainability. Our products and services are designed not just to meet, but to exceed customer expectations in terms of quality, usability, and environmental impact. We invest significantly in research and development to ensure our offerings are at the forefront of technology and eco-friendly practices.
Handling rapid growth involves strategic planning and scalable processes. We prioritize building a strong, adaptable foundation, from robust financial management to flexible operational structures. Investing in our team’s development is crucial, ensuring we have the right talent to drive our growth. We also leverage technology to streamline processes and maintain efficiency as we expand. This balanced approach allows us to grow rapidly while maintaining the quality and integrity of our services.
What do you want to do as being a Ethiopian Entrepreneur
My vision is to position Ethiopia as a prominent global business hub, serving as a central force in the economic landscape for all African countries. This ambitious goal is anchored in the commitment to offer high-quality products at competitive prices, thereby contributing to the economic prosperity of the region.
By focusing on delivering excellence in our products, we aim to establish Ethiopia as a hub for businesses seeking reliable and top-tier goods. This endeavor is not solely about business expansion; it is about fostering economic empowerment for our citizens. We aspire to create a ripple effect by providing quality employment opportunities that not only sustain livelihoods but also inspire individuals to dream beyond boundaries.
Through this vision, we envision a thriving Ethiopia, not only known for its economic prowess but also for its commitment to quality, affordability, and the empowerment of its people. By harnessing the potential of our nation, we strive to play a pivotal role in elevating the status of Ethiopia on the global stage and positively impacting the lives of its citizens.