Rajeev Jhawar – The Visionary Industrial Leader Behind Usha Martin’s Success
Rajeev Jhawar, the Managing Director of Usha Martin Limited, is a prominent name in India’s industrial landscape. As the son of founder Brij Kishore Jhawar, Rajeev represents the next generation of leadership, steering the company with strategic foresight and a deep understanding of the wire rope industry.
An alumnus of Ranchi University and the London Business School, Rajeev Jhawar brings over three decades of experience in business management and industrial operations. His leadership has been instrumental in Usha Martin’s evolution from a domestic manufacturer into one of the world’s leading wire rope producers.
The Legacy of the Jhawar Family
The Jhawar family, founders of Usha Martin Limited, have played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s growth. The family’s business interests also extend to Neutral Publishing House Limited, which owns Prabhat Khabar, one of India’s leading newspapers. Together, Brij Kishore Jhawar and his brother Basant Kumar Jhawar established Usha Martin as a multi-product industrial conglomerate known for quality and innovation.
Rajeev Jhawar’s Journey at Usha Martin
Rajeev Jhawar began his career at Usha Martin as Senior Vice President (Commercial) before assuming the role of Managing Director in May 2008. His strategic leadership saw the company expand internationally, acquiring wire rope companies across Europe and diversifying into new markets.
Under his direction, Usha Martin Limited—originally incorporated as Usha Beltron Ltd. in 1986—grew into one of the world’s top wire rope manufacturers, with facilities in Ranchi, Hoshiarpur, Dubai, Bangkok, and the UK. The company now serves industries such as oil and offshore, mining, cranes, elevators, and construction.
The Strategic Turnaround and Deleveraging Success
A few years ago, Usha Martin faced financial challenges. However, Rajeev Jhawar’s decisive leadership transformed this crisis into an opportunity. In 2019, he strategically divested the company’s steel business to Tata Steel, significantly reducing debt and refocusing operations on Usha Martin’s core wire rope business.
This move not only strengthened the company’s balance sheet but also positioned Usha Martin for renewed growth. The turnaround is recognized as one of India’s most successful examples of corporate restructuring and strategic refocusing.
Global Expansion and Future Outlook
Today, Usha Martin Limited is a global leader in wire ropes, supplying to markets across South-East Asia, Australia, the USA, Canada, Latin America, and South Africa. The company continues to enhance its manufacturing capabilities and expand into new geographies.
Rajeev Jhawar’s vision focuses on innovation, productivity enhancement, and sustainable expansion. With India’s infrastructure boom and rising global demand, Usha Martin is poised for significant growth in the coming years. The company’s commitment to excellence and technological advancement ensures its continued leadership in the global wire rope industry.
Conclusion
Under the leadership of Rajeev Jhawar, Usha Martin has evolved from a regional manufacturer to an international powerhouse. His strategic decisions, emphasis on capability building, and forward-looking mindset have redefined the company’s future. As the Managing Director of Usha Martin, Rajeev Jhawar continues to lead the company toward innovation, sustainability, and global excellence.
