Page 93 - KZN Top Business Leaders

RAJESH LUTCHMAN

teeped in the entrepreneurial spirit of a global journey across Europe and the Americas the organisation– Luan most recently, following his
South Africa’s East Coast, Rajesh Lutchman in pursuit of innovative solutions and cutting- tenure at Investec.
has spent over three decades leading with edge technologies. His goal? To enhance the lives
S vision, determination, and a relentless work of consumers while creating sustainable, waste- Grooming tomorrow’s leadership is a profound
ethic. As chief executive officer of Siyaka, Rajesh efficient packaging that contributes to a healthier responsibility. “In passing on what we refer to as the
has grown the business from a small, dedicated planet. ‘holy grail’, we place strong emphasis on continual
team into a thriving, multi-site enterprise with improvement (CI) – a principle we uphold alongside
operations in Durban, Johannesburg, Mauritius, Rajesh is driven not only by curiosity for processes, innovation, accountability, and strategic thinking.”
and strategic representation in all major hubs but by a deep respect for the people behind
primarily servicing southern Africa and East Africa. them. “My passion has always been in developing SOUL OF A FAMILY BUSINESS
teams – nurturing a culture where individuals are
Siyaka is a trusted name in the fast-moving empowered to thrive and contribute meaningfully While the organisation is structured and mirrors
consumer goods sector, providing high-quality to continuous improvement.” the operational discipline of a corporate entity,
printed packaging solutions. From snack packets to Siyaka proudly retain the agility and soul of a
detergents and beverages, products with Siyaka’s Siyaka remains grounded in the same core family business. Swift, decisive action on emerging
packaging line the shelves of retail stores across principles it held at inception: alignment among opportunities has long been one of its key
southern Africa – many consumers have likely held stakeholders, collaborative problem-solving, and a differentiators.
a Siyaka-printed item in their hands without even culture where the best ideas win. Rajesh fosters an Family remains a central pillar. “Every quarter,
realising it. environment of psychological safety, co-creation,
and shared accountability. we retreat as a family to a remote destination
“I started with a small team,” Rajesh recalls, “many – a tradition that serves as a reset, fostering
of whom are still with the company today. Honesty LEAVING A LEGACY harmony and alignment across both personal and
and integrity have shaped our culture. We’ve built Beyond Siyaka, Rajesh now sits on the board professional spheres,” explains Rajesh.
a family, bound by a common vision: delivering of various industries, including a property “Our business endeavours are united by a shared
value-engineered packaging with purpose.”
development and management portfolio and vision and long-term commitment. We remain
an investment entity. But for him, success has optimistic, guided by a clear five-year outlook
CHANGE IS THE ONLY CONSTANT
never been about the numbers. “The greatest and a focus on delivering lasting impact in
Rajesh’s drive for perfection was evident from an investment you can make,” he reflects, “is in emerging markets. Challenges persist, but so do
early age. For him, printing artwork on paper was something that outlasts you. For me, it’s about opportunities – and there is much to be done by
never enough – he envisioned packaging that leaving a legacy – one that improves the lives of the next generation of industry leaders.”
combined consistency, durability, and artisan-like employees, families, suppliers, customers, and
quality at scale. That philosophy remains at the consumers alike.” Over the years, Rajesh and his team have been
heart of Siyaka’s operations. honoured with numerous accolades, a testament
At Siyaka, succession and leadership development to their dedication and excellence, and the values
Navigating the complexities of the manufacturing are not taken lightly. “As part of our family tradition, we stand for.
world requires more than operational excellence. each of our children is encouraged to first gain
It calls for foresight, adaptability, and the ability to experience in the open market following their He comments, “We remain driven by purpose,
mitigate risks and remove roadblocks. “You need tertiary qualification. Only thereafter, should they united in our mission, and committed to excellence
to see the end at the beginning,” Rajesh says, “and express the desire to join the business, do we have –today, and for the future.”
map the path with precision.” that conversation,” explained Rajesh.
In conclusion Rajesh says that his business
Change is the only constant in the packaging and Following this principle, his two elder sons, Mikhail philosophy is guided by his mantra which is:
printing industry – a reality that has led Rajesh on Lutchman and Luan Lutchman, have both joined “Question the status quo. Dare to change it.”

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