Leading Global Manufacturing with Purpose
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March 2026 : In the high-stakes world of energy and industrial engineering, Beena Kothadia stands as a beacon of strategic grit and operational excellence. As the Country Lead and Executive - Plant Management at Arabelle Solutions (EDF Group), Beena doesn’t just manage infrastructure; she navigates the complex intersection of global energy transition and local manufacturing prowess.
Pro MFG Media is proud to feature her in our special series, Women Aces of Manufacturing. We spotlight Beena’s journey as a leader who is redefining the "shop floor" and proving that the future of Indian manufacturing is not just robust - it’s visionary.
What inspired you to pursue a career in manufacturing ?
Growing up, I was always fascinated by how things are created. I chose manufacturing to witness that transformation firsthand. The field offers an incredible scope where no two days are ever the same, providing a journey of constant learning and the fulfillment of building the nation’s infrastructure.
What keeps you committed to the manufacturing sector despite challenges ?
The constant evolution. Whether it is the shift toward more sustainable practices or the integration of new technologies, the sector never stands still. The challenge of optimizing operations while maintaining the highest safety and quality standards is what keeps me energized every single day.
Which competencies are most critical for women to thrive in plant operations ?
Technical Agility: A deep understanding of the processes you oversee
Decisiveness: The ability to make firm calls under pressure
Empathetic Leadership: Building trust with a diverse workforce, from shop floor operators to senior management
What is one misconception about women in manufacturing you would like to break ?
The idea that it is ‘too harsh’ or ‘physically overwhelming’ for women.
Modern manufacturing is about precision, strategy, and advanced technology. It requires intellect and grit, qualities that women possess in abundance. The ‘grease and gears’ stereotype is outdated; today’s plants are hubs of sophisticated engineering.
What advice would you give young women entering manufacturing today ?
Claim your space. Don’t feel like you need to ‘blend in’ to be successful. Your unique perspective is your greatest asset. Seek out mentors, stay curious about every aspect of the plant, and never apologize for being the most ambitious person in the room.
What is one leadership lesson manufacturing taught you?
Beyond resilience, manufacturing has taught me the power of human connection. Being constantly around both people and machines, I’ve learned that leadership is about readiness and the ability to sustain pressure to drive others forward. Ultimately, you are creating a lasting impact on your people and their future generations.
In one sentence: what does being a ‘Woman Ace of Manufacturing’ mean to you ?
It means leading with excellence, breaking barriers for those who follow, and proving that machines truly know no gender.
About Beena:
Beena Kothadia is a seasoned engineering leader with over 25 years of experience in global manufacturing and plant management. Currently serving as Country Lead and Executive - Plant Management at Arabelle Solutions (EDF Group), she has held leadership roles at General Motors, Gestamp, and GE Steam Power.
Recognised among India’s Top 10 Women Role Models and Top 25 Women Ahead, Beena has also won the SheMaker Emerging Leader Award and the People Excellence Award. She is passionate about building people-centric workplaces, solving complex challenges, and inspiring young women to pursue leadership in engineering. Outside of work, she loves travelling with her family, exploring cultures, and encouraging her daughters to chase their dreams.
Beena Kothadia’s journey is a powerful testament to the impact of resilient, people-centric leadership. By bridging technical mastery with a passion for mentorship, she continues to pave a vibrant path for the next generation of women in engineering.
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