Sajjan Jindal, born on December 5, 1959, in India, is a prominent industrialist and the Chairman and Managing Director of JSW Group, one of India’s leading conglomerates with interests in steel, energy, infrastructure, and more. As an astute businessman, he steered JSW Steel to become the country’s largest steel producer, with substantial contributions to its infrastructure and cement sectors as well.
Educated as a mechanical engineer at the Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore, Jindal embarked on his professional journey in 1982 with the OP Jindal Group. Showing early promise, he was tasked with turning around operations at two facilities near Mumbai shortly after joining, marking the beginning of a series of strategic expansions under his leadership.
In 1989, he founded Jindal Iron and Steel Company (JISCO) and in 1995, further expanded his portfolio by promoting Jindal Vijaynagar Steel Limited (JVSL), among others. His vision led to the merger of JISCO and JVSL into JSW Steel in 2005, solidifying its foundation. He has not only expanded the group domestically but also explored international opportunities, emphasizing the importance of inorganic growth.
Jindal’s leadership was recognized globally when he served as the chairman of the World Steel Association in 2021–2022. His role was pivotal in founding the Indian Steel Association in 2014, enhancing the industry’s structure in India. Apart from his business acumen, Jindal is known for his contributions to society through the JSW Foundation, which aims to bridge socio-economic divides.
He has received numerous accolades, including the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2022, and awards from Indian and global institutions for his leadership in the metallurgical industry.
Married to Sangita Jindal, chairperson of the JSW Foundation, they have three children. Jindal’s life and career reflect a deep commitment to both entrepreneurial spirit and community welfare, making him a distinguished figure in both Indian industry and philanthropy.
How did you get started in this business?
I began my career in 1982 at the OP Jindal Group as a fresh graduate in mechanical engineering from the Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore. Almost immediately, my father challenged me to turn around the operations at two manufacturing facilities near Mumbai, which was a crucial early test. This experience laid the groundwork for my deeper involvement in the steel industry, leading to the establishment of Jindal Iron and Steel Company (JISCO) in 1989 and several other ventures that followed.
How does your company make money?
JSW Group makes money through a diversified business model that spans across sectors such as steel, energy, cement, and infrastructure. As Chairman and Managing Director, my role involves strategic decision-making to drive growth, overseeing large-scale investments, and ensuring operational efficiencies that reduce costs and enhance profitability.
How does your company go about acquiring new customers?
Our approach to acquiring new customers is multifaceted, involving aggressive marketing, robust sales strategies, and maintaining high standards of product quality. We actively participate in industry expos and leverage digital marketing to reach potential clients. Our sales team is skilled in negotiating and building long-term relationships, which is crucial in industries like steel and energy where contracts are large and long-term.
How did you work your way up in this business?
After starting as an engineer, I quickly moved to manage and turn around critical operations, which proved my capabilities to my father and the company. Following the successful management of our facilities near Mumbai, I was entrusted with larger responsibilities, leading to the founding of several companies under the JSW banner and eventually taking over as the Managing Director and Chairman.
What made you want to work in this industry?
Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the steel industry, I was inspired by my father’s vision and entrepreneurial spirit. Witnessing the transformative impact of steel on building national infrastructure motivated me to pursue a career that combined engineering with impactful business practices. The ability to contribute to India’s growth and global standing further fueled my passion.
What is it that you feel makes you good at your job?
My ability to take calculated risks and maintain optimism during challenging times are key traits that make me effective in my role. Additionally, a deep understanding of the industry’s technical and business aspects allows me to make informed decisions that steer our conglomerate towards sustainable growth.
What are the perks of working in this type of business?
The steel and energy industries are crucial to global infrastructure and development, which provides a sense of purpose and impact. Additionally, these sectors offer the opportunity to engage in large-scale projects, influence economic trends, and innovate in ways that can significantly affect the market.
What are the disadvantages of working in this field?
This industry demands long hours and significant commitment due to the scale and complexity of operations. It is highly competitive and capital-intensive, which can be stressful. Furthermore, the cyclical nature of the steel and energy markets can lead to periods of intense pressure to maintain profitability and market position.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding aspect is seeing the tangible impact of our products and projects on society — from infrastructure like bridges and buildings to contributions in renewable energy. Additionally, driving innovation and sustainability in the steel industry, and leading a team of dedicated professionals, are profoundly fulfilling.
Where is your industry headed? What excites you about the future of this line of work?
The steel industry is increasingly moving towards sustainability and innovation with the integration of advanced technologies like AI and IoT for smarter manufacturing processes. The shift towards green steel and the expansion into high-growth markets like electric vehicles excite me. These advancements promise a transformative future for the industry, aligning with global environmental goals.
What advice do you give people who want to get into your field of work?
Develop a strong foundation in both the technical aspects of manufacturing and the business skills needed to manage large-scale operations. Stay adaptable, as the industry is continuously evolving. Network extensively and be prepared to embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
I am open to mentoring driven individuals who are passionate about making a significant impact in our industry. Prospective mentees can reach out through the JSW Group’s official communication channels, where my team will facilitate an introduction.