Balancing Legacy with Precision and Purpose
#WomenAcesOfManufacturing #ProMFGMedia #WomenInLeadership #WomenInManufacturing #ManufacturingLeaders #InclusiveManufacturing #IndustrialExcellence #WomenInSTEM
March 2026 : The gears of Indian industry are shifting, driven by a new era of visionary leadership that balances precision with purpose. To celebrate this evolution, as part of Pro MFG Media's initiative on Women Aces of Manufacturing, a premier editorial series launched this International Women’s Day, we are pleased to introduce Priya Barve, Joint MD at Shriram Rubber Products Pvt Ltd. We are spotlighting the leaders who aren't just navigating the manufacturing ecosystem- they are redefining it. Join us as we explore her journey of resilience and innovation, proving that the future of the factory floor is bold, diverse, and undeniably female.
What inspired you to pursue a career in manufacturing ?
After completing my Bachelor’s & Master’s in Computer Science, I was one of the few selected by Cognizant Technologies during their campus interview. During my stint at Cognizant, I took a long-term view & decided to join our family business. I decided to join the company for its first expansion & since then have never looked back. Growing the business, expanding the infrastructure, increasing our customer base, facing new challenges, building a positive culture has been rewarding.
What is one leadership lesson manufacturing taught you ?
Manufacturing taught me that being a leader takes a lot of patience, especially in a male-dominated field. It is about listening to your team, solving problems calmly, and showing by example. Small mistakes can have big effects, so staying steady and fair is very important.
What keeps you committed to the manufacturing sector despite challenges ?
I stay committed to manufacturing because it feels rewarding when customers appreciate our work. Running a business in a male-dominated field has its challenges, but I keep going because I care about the work, the team, and continuing our family legacy. Seeing our efforts turn into real results keeps all of us motivated.
Which competencies are most critical for women to thrive in plant operations ?
Patience, focus, and perseverance are very important. Being able to communicate clearly with the team, solve problems in the right manner and make decisions confidently helps keep operations running well. Learning continuously and staying consistent are also key to thriving in a fast-moving environment.
A moment in your career that made you most proud ?
There have been many proud moments, but the most special was celebrating Shriram Rubber’s Golden Jubilee - 50 Glorious Years in the industry. Since only about 1.5% of family businesses in India reach this milestone, it is a remarkable achievement. I’m also proud that many employees have spent their entire careers with us, which reflects the strong, supportive culture we’ve built over so many years.
What is one misconception about women in manufacturing you would like to break ?
One misconception is that women cannot handle the practical, hands-on work in manufacturing. In reality, with patience, focus, and teamwork, women can manage operations just as well as anyone. Skill, dedication, and problem- solving matter far more than gender in getting the job done. I have been fortunate enough to not face major challenges due to gender bias; in fact it is an opportunity to prove that leadership has no gender.
What advice would you give young women entering manufacturing today ?
Manufacturing environments can be demanding - physically, mentally and culturally. Over the years, consistent performance and delivering results & ensuring customer satisfaction have helped shift perceptions and earn respect. Believe in yourself and take pride in your work. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share ideas, or try new things. Manufacturing teaches planning, teamwork, and problem- solving, and every challenge is a chance to learn and grow.
How do you see the impact of AI in the manufacturing industry ?
AI is changing manufacturing by making processes faster, more accurate, and efficient. It helps predict machine breakdowns, improve quality, and reduce waste. It also supports better planning and decision-making, allowing teams to focus on solving problems and innovating. In the long run, it can make operations safer and more productive.
Any initiatives being run in your company for increasing women’s participation in manufacturing ?
In our company, we are working to increase women’s participation in several ways. We provide on the job training, flexible schedules to support work- life balance, all kinds of amenities that they may require. We also encourage women to lead small projects, participate in decision-making, and share ideas, creating a supportive and inclusive workplace.
In one sentence: what does being a ‘Woman Ace of Manufacturing’ mean to you ?
Being a ‘Woman Ace of Manufacturing’ means taking pride in your work, breaking stereotypes, solving challenges with confidence, and showing that women can succeed in every aspect of manufacturing while contributing to growth and a strong team culture.
About Priya Barve:
Priya’s journey from the IT sector to steering Shriram Rubber Products exemplifies the technical agility required in modern industry. As a second-generation leader managing a workforce of 160 across three Pune plants, she balances rigorous operational standards with a profound commitment to social transformation through her work with rural youth. Shriram Rubber stands as a unique beacon in the sector - boasting an all-women Board of Directors - proving that diverse leadership isn't just a goal, but a lived reality. We are honored to feature her story, celebrating a visionary who seamlessly blends industrial excellence with a legacy of human impact.
Women Aces of Manufacturing is more than an editorial series; it is a dedicated movement by Pro MFG Media to bridge the visibility gap in the industrial sector. By spotlighting the strategic impact of women leaders, we are building a narrative where diversity fuels innovation and operational excellence. Highlighting these journeys is essential to inspiring the next generation of engineers and entrepreneurs. To nominate a leader or share your own leadership journey, contact amita@promfgmedia.com to be featured in this ongoing celebration of excellence.
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