The Print Industry Has a Far-Reaching Impact on Businesses in General
ME Printer speaks to Tina Mandla, the Marketing Manager at Tarsus Group, about her experience working in the global print industry, the challenges it offers and the opportunities present.
Tell us about your leadership style and philosophy.
I believe that great leaders are those who successfully make leaders out of their followers. When you enable someone to rise above themselves and achieve great things, that’s when you have successfully played your role as a leader. I consider participative leadership as my style, which allows me to get the best out of my team but will not hesitate to make an executive decision where necessary.
What made you choose Printing and Graphics Industry as a career opportunity?
I believe this sector has far-reaching impact on business in general, and in marketing/branding which is of course great interest to me. I have an events background and have managed events in the Middle East in the past. In 2015 I was assigned to Gulf Print and Pack and have loved doing the show ever since. Especially in the Middle East, commercial printing is projected to lead the world in terms of growth which makes this show and my job extremely interesting.
How has your unique background prepared you for success in the industry?
Being in the events industry allows me to meet a lot of people. The kind of relationships I have established with various industry stakeholders has helped a lot. As in any business, especially in this part of the world, establishing positive, professional relationships is key to success.
What was your most interesting job?
The one that I have right now. I love what I do, and am happy I am able to apply what I have learned having earned a business degree and a CIM marketing qualification. Being a part of Gulf Print and Pack has been a fantastic experience for me, it has been challenging but also very fulfilling and interesting as there is always something new coming up.
What advice would you give to women looking to break into the field of print and related industry?
Understand the business and establish good relationships. The technicalities may be a bit daunting at first, but devote some time to understanding the industry’s in’s and out’s. This will help anyone make a good impression and hopefully succeed.
What is the greatest transformation in the printing that you’ve witnessed in your career?
The move towards digitization and adoption of new print technologies. It’s amazing how quality has improved drastically, production times have been cut and there are many more new innovations that we can expect that will be made possible by newer technologies that will emerge.
What are your thoughts on the next transformation in the print and graphics industry?
We will see a lot more innovations as well as new applications. Security features to fight counterfeiting and piracy will also be a big thing.
Are you involved in any sort of volunteer work? Can you give us some details?
I am not involved in any specific charity but do help on a regular basis some groups related to environmental advocacy.
What’s next for you in terms of your career in the printing industry?
My aim is to help the Gulf Print & Pack show grow even more and enable it to be a better platform for industry stakeholders as well as a forum for new. Over the longer term, I hope to create and manage a wider portfolio of events.
