Stories
Usman Iman is currently serving as the Deputy Manager of Industrial Engineering, Lean Manufacturing, and Process Improvement at Nishat Apparel. However, his journey to this position was not a smooth ride, but instead, a roller coaster of experiences, challenges, and triumphs.
Am an industrial engineering team leader involves overseeing the efficient use of resources and process improvements throughout the entire garment manufacturing process, from cutting to packaging.
In 2015, I embarked on my career journey right after completing my Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Engineering and Management. Like many fresh graduates, I was a blank canvas with nothing exceptional to offer.
I landed a job as a Production Executive in the footwear sector, tasked with the responsibility of standardizing work content and improving processes. However, this was easier said than done. I encountered office politics, mockery from production managers, and resistance from production staff, which made it challenging to achieve my goals. Despite these obstacles, I persevered and remained committed to my objectives.
The most significant challenge I faced was the absence of guidance and mentorship in my work domain. I put forward several proposals to management, but they yielded no results. This resulted in me losing credibility with top management, who had hired me to serve a specific purpose. The constant pressure of my work environment, coupled with my father’s prolonged illness and hospitalization, took a toll on my mental well-being. I eventually had to quit my job to take care of my father, which left me unemployed for months.
However, fate had other plans for me. While sitting with my father, I received a call from an organization that invited me for an interview. Despite my reservations, my father encouraged me to give it a try. To my surprise, I found a fantastic team that helped me achieve many milestones while learning a lot from each other. I also had the privilege of working under a trustworthy leader who honed my skills and turned me into a one-minute manager who could solve problems in no time.
I learned about trending practices, such as lean manufacturing, and worked in a fertile environment that polished my skills. Based on my experiences, I eventually switched to another organization and got promoted to a managerial position.
Presently, I hold the position of Deputy Manager of Industrial Engineering, Lean Manufacturing, and Process Improvement at Nishanth Apparel. Prior to my tenure at Nishanth Apparel, I served as Assistant Manager of Manufacturing Excellence at Masood Textiles Mills Limited, Assistant Production Manager at Service Industries Limited, and Production Engineer at Shafi Pvt Ltd.
My extensive experience and expertise acquired from these past roles enable me to contribute effectively to my current position. Furthermore, I have attained multiple certifications, including Lean Vision 2022 from the National Productivity Organization and OHSAS 18001:2007 from IRCA Global.
I am still searching, but given the opportunity, I would opt to pursue a career as a medical practitioner, specifically as a doctor.
Having embraced my faith, I’ve come to realize that my beliefs have empowered me to help others achieve success in both their present endeavors and their future aspirations.
The following are key concepts in business and management:
Honoring the dignity of individuals and striving for ongoing progress.
Six Sigma methodologies for minimizing defects and errors.
Value Stream Mapping to optimize production processes.
Agile manufacturing for adapting to changing market demands.
Effective leadership and influence
Decision-making skills.
Willingness to take calculated risks.
Establishing standards for work content.
Quality management techniques.