What IMS plant and environment are distinct for! Imran Qureshi, Plant Director, IMS who loves machines talks to ER and shares how he faces challenges at the plant.

The plant manager utilizes a lot of sources for producing a product at the plant. It’s a challenging task.
Manufacturing is always challenging, and so is the supply chain. But managing a plant is an exciting job too and I like it as I like machines and interaction with people. It’s like fun for me, I do it passionately and do not get overpowered by the challenges. There are many issues one has to face like manpower, labor issues, materials, supply chain, customs, etc.
ER: When we talk about Industrial plants, people say energy is very expensive. How do you look at it and how energy efficient is your plant?
We have taken several steps to conserve energy at the plant. In less critical areas like the canteen, mosque, etc, we have installed systems which turn off supplies when those areas are not in use. We have fixed planned breaks for tea and lunch and we have a system to turn off the plant during such breaks.
Now, we are switching to a solar system.
ER: How hi-tech is your plant?
It is a hybrid plant where we have many CNC machines digitally connected and operated through software. We have modern testing equipment besides the use of sensors and monitors for being digitally connected. It ensures that our customer is aware of first-hand information. We try to remain up to date with technology and are successful to a great degree.
ER: What about the environment and safety systems for the people on the plant?
Safety is part of our DNA and thus is embedded in our culture. The safety of the employees and the equipment is a must. In our country, we find a casual approach toward safety but we are very focused on safety and quality in IMS. Our employees are encouraged to report safety issues if any and address the issues in a proper manner. It is everybody’s responsibility.
The environment at the plant is very good as most of our employees are university graduates and they are encouraged to raise their issues with the Human Resource Department as well as the top management.
ER: Most of the machinery in our industrial plants is imported, so why can’t we try to make machines in Pakistan?
Our machines are also imported from Europe, they can be made in Pakistan too but the government level focus on the manufacturing sector remains absent. If we can make mobile phones, can overhaul jets, we can make these machines also but our two big institutions such as the Heavy Electrical Complex and Heavy Mechanical Complex are in poor condition. It is the lack of our governments. Look at India, they make all machines in their country.
ER: How do you maintain your machines if they develop any issues?
If any issues develop that are linked with the mechanical or hydraulic side, we look towards local vendors whereas, in case of any sophisticated problems like circuit boards and CNC cards and electronics, we rely on foreign vendors.
ER: How do you face issues relating to the supply chain in the wake of rising inflation and the Covid situation before it?
It is a complex issue that started with the shortage of containers and then congestion at the port. Closure of industry resulted in delays. It was a tough time that the whole industry faced in the country. Since we have a three-month cycle thus we ensure the availability of our stocks as they are import-based. Because we see the demand that must be met.
During Covid – 19 Pandemic, we faced a bigger challenge as the investments went down.
Now, new challenges are on the customs side, and let’s see how it goes.
ER: Does your company collaborate with academia in case of any issues relating to the industry?
We collaborate with academia through an internship program. We select students from academia every year through a screening process. We have a comprehensive rotation program under which internees are informed about the plant and all systems are available here. The program aims at inducting the best human resource into the company.n