Ms. Smita Wadnerkar
"One of the most remarkable aspects at KSB is the cooperative and respectful environment"
I joined KSB Limited as a trainee for 2 years in August 1992 through IGTC. After completing 2 years of training I was absorbed into the Budget & Controlling Department in September 1994. I was involved in implementing a costing system in ISP. In those days I used to do bill passing, inventory-related work, project costing other costing-related activities. Also, salary & wages payment was made in cash at that time. So, we had to fill up the packets & distribute them to our employees. Till joining KSB, I had seen a bag full of cash only in movies, but then got used to it every month's end.
One memorable experience in my early years was during the first year of an audit, the auditor and I was new and when the inventory figures were discussed, the auditor struggled to explain. Consequently, his boss called me into his cabin to describe the work procedures. The audit finalization activities used to run late into the night, and my turn for inventory valuation came at 11 PM, concluding at 1 AM the next day. The pressure was on, as my superiors were unsure if I could handle the situation. However, I successfully completed the inventory audit and reassured my boss that "ALL IS WELL." The company's caring nature was evident when they arranged for my safe transportation back home in a company vehicle, alleviating my parents' concerns.
The journey of these 21+ years helped me learn from my superiors & colleagues, which helped me develope myself in my field of activities, get involved in various projects/tasks organized by the company & reach a responsible position in the organization. I got the chance to meet our overseas Controlling colleagues due to the PACE project November 2017 when I travelled to Germany.
I got the privilege to work in ERP (ISP) systems as well as in SAP. During the old days we had to follow strict timetables for the of computers and terminals for ISP work.
In 2019, our department was renamed as a Controlling department. I am working as Controller for the Pimpri plant.
One of the most remarkable aspects of my tenure here has been the cooperative and respectful environment at KSB Limited. Gender bias is non-existent and women employees are treated with utmost respect. I take pride in the prompt establishment of an Internal Complaints Committee under "The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition & Redressal) Act 2013,” where I served as the Presiding Officer. Thankfully, the committee has never had to address any complaints since its inception.
Various Initiatives introduced like idea management, reward recognition, interaction with the top management team during communication meet, various sports activities, cultural events, outbound activities etc. help to boost the morale of employees & increase employer engagement.
To summarize it was a nice, challenging journey of 29+ years which helped me in my overall development and also helped me to give my 100% to the job. I could also complete my post-graduate studies which helped me to grow in the organization.
In the end, I would like to quote that "You are never old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. Life is a game of chess. You cannot undo the moves but you can always make the next step better."
- Mrs. Smita Wadnerkar