lighthouse - Chairman’s Message

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Two decades ago, when CSS launched the first edition of our ‘Lighthouse’ magazine, we had a vision. Innovatively, it was to interact with the shipping logistics fraternity, by providing interesting information about events and updates from within the CSS Group. It transpired that, in a very short space of time, ‘Lighthouse’ built up a globally increasing readership throughout the shipping and logistics industry. Consequently, it started garnering more compellingly relevant news and feature items to showcase to our readers. The support and encouragement we have received over all these years has been staggering. Across the world, our print copies reached more than five thousand pairs of hands. Partnered alongside this, our digital edition started picking up the show with an exponential growth of half a million readers online.

It is true that a printed magazine gives you a more tactile experience, as it opens up an emotional channel with the content, when it’s held in a reader’s own hand. But being a responsible company, committed to preserving the environment, we have decided to reduce the usage of paper within the CSS group and go green. In line with this commitment we’ve taken a decision to completely digitize our magazine. Whilst we are sad to discontinue the print edition of ‘Lighthouse’, we are very excited about exploring how the advantages of 100% digitization will benefit our publication. We promise that this new change will not impact in any way on the quality of its content. We will happily rise to the challenge of continuing to engage our readers with more interesting topics from within the industry.

It’s said that: – ‘It ain’t what you do, it’s the way that you do it’.

We intend to ‘do it’ in a way that will carry forward, the new digital online format of ‘Lighthouse’, as an acclaimed flagship publication for CSS and our global industry

Chairman’s Message

No one can dispute the fact that our business sector is constantly and rapidly evolving. I am therefore particularly proud that, over the past twenty-five years, CSS has gained recognition as a global leader in international transport and logistics. We are honoured to have achieved this, even more so because it highlights our core belief of maintaining strong values of discipline dedicated to providing high-quality service.

Growing businesses face many challenges and CSS is no exception. However as different opportunities and problems demand distinct solutions, one thing is for sure, such challenges provide development outcomes which should confirm that a business is on the right path for growth. Personally, I believe that, in this context, talent management strategy is one of the dominant prerequisites. It’s a must for any growing business.

It’s well known maxim that we are all happier when we feel we are able to achieve our best. This means placing the right people in the right place so they are able to utilise their maximum talent. Obviously there are many factors that influence this process. Nowadays, whilst the skills of ‘Human Resources’ have gained significance, CSS has endeavoured to inculcate their disciplines since our inauguration. The strategy of talent management is a process that cascades from the top to the bottom line. Meticulous understanding of each person’s abilities is a must and it provides a linchpin for ‘Human Resources’. This is something we have been doing, within CSS, for years. For some ‘Human Resources’ only recently came into prominence but, ensuring that the right people are in the right roles and have the right capabilities; has always been important for CSS. It’s part of our characteristic spirit that has not only stood CSS in good stead but also will serve us well ahead for our future growth.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Famous quotes stand the test of time because they are proved to be true. In this context ‘Life begins where fear ends’ is an esteemed maxim by Gautama Buddha, later interpreted by many spiritual and philosophical leaders. In today’s corporate world, where progress is determined by targeted objectives, quotes like this have gained greater relevance because the burdens on one’s emotional and mental well-being are increased.

Fear is one of our primary emotions. It is something which is natural and instinctive. From an evolutionary perspective fear may save our lives but it can also stop us from living the way we desire. Reacting spontaneously, with a fear-or-flight response, when coming across a venomous snake is one thing. However, fear creeping into our psyche, almost by stealth, is another. Being fearful, when there is no obvious reason, means we become reluctant to step outside our own comfort zone. Examining our life situation and assessing our potential makes for a more focused individual. It invariably helps us gain courage to expand our horizons and look at life in a different perspective.

My greatest worry is that the new generation, who have lots of opportunities around them for professional growth; appear to be faltering owing to lack of self-motivation. Irrational fear is holding some back. Running after motivational gurus is counterproductive because meaningful motivation can only be invoked within oneself. Recognising the fear factor, that is waiting subtly in the background of our minds, enables us to rise above its influence. Putting our fear into a proper perspective means our life really does begin. We will then have the confidence to step outside our comfort zone and grasp new opportunities with enthusiasm.

Chairman’s Message

Companies are made-up of management and staff that are invariably a unique combination of brains and personalities. Being able to bring all their talents together, in order to achieve success, is a paramount challenge.

Consequently, it has always been a debatable issue as to which is more important, personal or company growth. However, I feel it is a topic that needs serious analysis. Nimble companies adapt to new situations and marketing conditions, whereas rigid companies eventually crack under the strain.

Growth is a word which motivates ambitious people, especially those who have already experienced the phenomena of company fortunes growing and falling. It’s unfortunate that self-centered persons never really take time to study the reasons for such ebbing and flowing events.

Correspondingly a company needs to find the time to recognise staff’s talents and promote their aspirations for personal growth. Such considerations lead to teams being assigned a manager or leader. Every holder of such positions must develop an ability to study team members’ aspirations and respond to them, both individually and collectively. In order for a company to grow successfully change is very important. Realistically meaningful changes are only possible when employees acclaim growth. This motivates them to take on new challenges, expand their capabilities, cultivate new behaviours and entertain innovation.

With these thoughts uppermost, my message for this edition of Lighthouse is specifically directed to the managers and leaders within the CSS Group. You have a responsibility to your company whilst, at the same time, ensuring that this responsibility cascades down to each of your team members. A healthy body relies on all its organs functioning properly. This makes everyone, regardless of their role, an important part of CSS. Our greatest asset is our staff and, as a responsible company focused on developing advancement; we must never forget that appreciating individual aspirations are a solid basis on which to build growth.

Chairman’s Message

Invariably the start of a New Year provides an opportune time to look back on events of the previous twelve months and look forward with anticipation to the year ahead. The support and encouragement we have received from our partners, customers and colleagues, over the last twelve months, were really appreciated. It gives us welcome impetus that raises us to a higher level of confidence. Our mutually beneficial relationships have developed into friendships. This, has in turn, energised us to explore larger horizons. Thank you to everyone, as I wish you a wonderful year ahead.

A speech that I heard recently, from the former President of United States of America, George Bush Jnr., during the memorial service for his father Bush Snr., was thought-provoking. In this speech he mentioned the inaugural address of his father as the 41st President of USA. Bush Snr., said, “We cannot hope only to leave our children a bigger car, a bigger bank account. We must hope to give them a sense of what it means to be a loyal friend, a loving parent, a citizen who leaves his home, his neighborhood, and town better than he found it.”

I found this statement has got many overarching meanings, not only in our personal life, but in business too. It is the responsibility of every succeeding generation to leave what they’ve inherited, in better shape and condition. If we are able to start this New Year, by taking a lead that invigorates generations to come, I believe it will help focus our minds on achieving greater success for all of us.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

‘Righteousness’ was a word which former India President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam used in most of his speeches. Its frequent use made me ponder on the meaning which may be defined as, ‘a quality of being morally correct and justifiable’. It helped me recognise that in our lives, both personal and professional, there are situations where we have to take decisions that may not be so comfortable for everyone. I have personally found myself, many times, in such a dilemma. The way forward is to remember the concept of ‘righteousness’. When we are able to justify our thoughts and decisions as being right, we should not hesitate in taking the initiative. I have never delayed acting decisively about an issue which is correct and good for the larger group.
My observations indicate that a large majority are reluctant to be as quickly and effectively resolute, especially when bold decisions are needed.
Their biggest problem seems to be that they don’t have the courage to say, “No”. I have always found that if one strongly disapproves of something then there is little point in trying to appease others by saying, “Yes”. To do so will not only destroy yourself mentally but also weaken your self-esteem. Why do others find it so troublesome to say, “No”?
It is because there is a fear of rejection, not being liked by others or anxious at having to perhaps stand-alone upholding what you believe?
Whatever feeds such reluctance can be assuaged by remembering Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s concept and start acting with ‘righteousness’. The more you do so the more you will be prepared and confident to take meaningful decisions, for the good of others and your own well-being.
This latter sentiment is so appropriate when we realise the tragedy that has unfolded in my home state of Kerala. The relentless force of nature’s floods has brought disaster and heartbreak. “For the good of others and your own well-being”, provides a mantra spurring all to wholeheartedly join in supporting efforts to help the rescue services and provide succour for those in need.
I pledge to do all I am able to do to assist others in their time of great need. I express my sincere prayers on behalf of CSS Group and myself; knowing that ‘Righteousness’ being shared by all, amongst us all, will see Kerala recover from this terrible tragedy.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Whilst ‘Where have all the years gone?’ is sometimes used as a throwaway comment, it is frequently used when the passage of time takes on a delightful meaning. As it is exactly eleven years since the ‘Chairman’s Message’ was inaugurated in our Lighthouse magazine, I really do wonder where have all the years gone? I am overwhelmed that my message has proved to be a constructive platform which has resulted in timely comments and constructive suggestions from you – our readers. I am immensely grateful and express my gratitude.
The range of topics we have discussed both from within CSS and outside, interacted with major events which have flowed alongside with our development. The growth of CSS has been attributed to the healthy discussions and debates we have been able to have. The Chairman’s Message has been at the forefront highlighting issues and generating responses.
Any institution that seeks growth must have an attitude to always communicate positively. That doesn’t mean telling others what you want, it means being a good listener first. American educator, author and business man Dr Stephen Covey said; “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply”.
Taking on board the implications of this truism results in a company environment where a positive attitude to communication is encouraged. Putting active listening first, enables realistic forward planning where success becomes characteristically assured. Such interaction engenders friendship, loyalty and support which speeds along the passage of time. So, it really is no wonder that, after eleven years of the ‘Chairman’s Message’, I am happily asking: “Where have all the years gone?”

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

The saying, ‘Time and tide waits for no one’ has been in use since at least the 1200s. So when an opportunity arises to pause and reflect, on what has gone before, it is an event that should be grasped enthusiastically. It gives us a chance to recognise our successes and also to learn from our mistakes. Taking time, in this way, is one of the basic requisites for leading a rewarding life. Our world is changing so quickly almost in the ‘blink of an eye’. Gradual beginnings, with the right direction, may soon gain a momentum all of their own. This is similar to our growth within CSS.

Our progress was gradual and organic because we utilised the opportunities that came our way. We were steadfast in applying the principles of building on confidence and trust by recognising the value of our customers and, most importantly, our staff. Making headway was not always easy. It called for determination, dedication and a belief in ourselves which has enabled us to grown in size and strength, so we may stand proudly where we are today.
It was Benjamin Disraeli who said’ “Change is inevitable. Change is Constant”. I firmly believe that if you stand still and tread water, others will very quickly overtake you. So it is with some excitement that I greet the event of CSS introducing two new Chief Operating Officers to our company. I heartily congratulate them and I enthusiastically look forward to this change bringing innovative contributions and progressive interactions with us all.

Whatever has been achieved, so far, has only been possible because of the amazing spirit shown by our staff and the enormous support they have given to our management. May this spirit continue and cascade on to new initiatives as well as permeating throughout all levels of CSS.

As a company the reputation earned by CSS, over the years, was due to the hard work of our staff and the confidence of the management which were equally reciprocated. By building on this ethos we will be assured of growth and success which emulates our past history of amazing achievements.

Never forget, from little acorns big oaks grow and CSS is still destined to grow even bigger.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Being only a short time since the dawn of the New Year prompts thinking about, and analysing, the eventful days we have had during the past year. Having all of you alongside certainly ensured that it was a great journey throughout 2017. The uncertainty of the overall global economy meant we had many ups and downs, throughout the year, but we managed to sail auspiciously ahead. We made some commendable achievements, notably with our expansion of operations in the Middle East and Indian Sub-continent.
I am grateful for the support and cooperation we have had from all our agents, associates and well-wishers. Most importantly I applaud our staff at CSS who have contributed so magnificently throughout the past year. Regardless of the global economic setbacks and its financial instability, we have been successful in riding high across complex situations.
The theme of the recently concluded Strategy Meet ‘Time to Evolve’ highlighted relevant emerging opportunities. Focusing on these will enable us to adapt ourselves to the changing economic and financial environment. This will better equip our strategies, enabling them to penetrate the hard shells of global competition.
Moving forward, into this New Year, I am confident that the course we have been sailing during the past year has set us fair to successfully meet new challenges. Assuredly together, we will see CSS gaining even more commendable achievements in 2018.
Accordingly it gladdens me to be able to wish you all good fortune for 2018 – Happy New Year.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

An article, which I read recently, stimulated some creative thoughts. It was all about ‘delegating well to become a great leader’. It prompted me to recall a saying by former US President Ronald Regan, “Surround yourself with the best people you can find, delegate authority, and don’t interfere as long as the policy you’ve decided upon is being carried out”. This is an environment, I believe, we have been successful in achieving within CSS. Accordingly it’s an opportune time to discuss this topic, as November invariably proves to be a testing time for our Sales Force Team. As we find ourselves standing, once again, at the threshold of another strategy meet I welcome the opportunity to talk with team leaders. The interaction between leadership and delegation is a challenging issue. Consequently a review, by team leaders of their past year, may produce some interesting highlights for us all to discuss. How has success been measured? What has delegation achieved for your team? How do you accept responsibility for your team’s figures?

In leadership forums, around the globe, the roles of leadership and delegation are widely discussed. In the ever demanding business atmosphere, in which CSS operates, things are no different. Just like others, we need confident and bold leaders in order to seize every opportunity that comes our way. Leadership potential is realised when one is able to build on the collective talents of one’s team. Delegation encourages team responsibility and allows for a more enthusiastic environment because team members may be recognised for their contribution.

Looking back, I happily acknowledge that CSS has seen some great team leaders who have made invaluable contributions. I have no doubt that; as our company continues to focus on growth & development, appropriate delegation will play a key role in raising our company to even more glorious heights.

Chairman’s Message

It is invariably uplifting being able to highlight good news. To have equally superb tidings, from both the Middle East and the Indian Sub-continent, provides me with enormous pleasure. In the Middle East, CSS has commenced its services from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia whilst from India the excellent news is that we have started working from Ludhiana in Punjab. It is hard work and determination which has paved the way for these spectacular beginnings, from two new locations. I join with others in giving full credit to our colleagues and express my personal thanks to them for sharing such great news. Personally, it gives me a real sense of pride to acknowledge the achievements of our company although, at the same time, a feeling of responsibility arises at each and every new turn CSS takes.
I am reminded of a memorable quote from Arthur Ashe Jnr., the three times Grand Slam tennis title winner, “Success is a journey, not a destination. The doing is more important than the outcome.” I wholeheartedly believe that from day one onwards, at CSS, we have engendered the habit of delivering the best of what we have from within us, enjoying the doing, without restricting or anticipating our expectations. The ‘doing’ really has been more important than the ‘outcome’. This may well be the reason for us continually remaining successful in our endeavours.
Our on-going vision for growth recognises that forward planning, coupled with strategizing our policies, enables us to seize the right opportunity at the right time. We should remain always thankful to all our stakeholders for the unconditional support they bestow on us. It is their trust that spurs us on to deliver what is best for everyone who use the services provided by CSS.

Chairman’s Message

A quote, from nearly two hundred years ago, still lives on. British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli had said, “What we anticipate seldom occurs but what we least expect generally happens”. This relationship between anticipation and expectation is a major factor in market and business trends. It directly and indirectly affects our frame of mind and approach towards what is actually happening around us. I have consistently noticed that those who place too much emphasis on expectations frequently crash very fast, echoing Disraeli’s observation. ‘What we least expect generally happens!’
We may side-step the difficulties of anticipation and expectation by building on our past experience and endeavours. In this context it is worth recalling the words from our visionary leader, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. Whilst three years have quickly passed since we discussed His Highness’s book, ‘Flashes of Thought’, I believe it is an opportune time to review its inspirational outlook. By doing this we may take advantage of the past few months, which have given us all an opportunity to collect ourselves, and think about re-inventing strategies for success. This will aid in overcoming the sluggish trends that are generally prevailing in the market.
An acclaimed approach, encouraged within CSS, is to nurture and encourage successful team work. Having time to reflect on our management and current corporate ideas it is heartening to read in many articles, that we are emulating the best examples. Faced with demanding challenges and slow-moving times, managements need to focus on energising the atmosphere so that their teams enthusiastically work together. I strongly believe that at CSS we continue to be outstanding in achieving a welcoming, interactive and inclusive workplace environment. This stands us in very good stead for developing our future plans.

Chairman’s Message

It is amazing how far away; seemingly unapproachable to some, distant horizons may appear. Yet when they have been reached, the memories of the journey provide emotional rewards which surpass everything.  The ten year course, chartered by Console Shipping Services India, has seen us sailing through the hearts and minds of millions of satisfied clients. Being able to make this statement gives me great pleasure as I recognise the privilege that goes along with this.

I recall the days when CSS India was first conceived, with a small group of colleagues and friends sitting around with me, planning and strategizing about the future of the India operations. At that time, no one was quite sure about the fortunes destiny might have in store for us. However all of us were united in focusing on the distant horizon. We had confidence that we were going to sail through whatever situations unexpectedly came our way.  We had a belief and determination that enabled us to ride any troughs and stay on the crest of the waves. Bearing in mind how we started, it recently seemed appropriate that a few of us should get together for a small celebration in Delhi. Here we were able to share the excitement and joy of this landmark achievement of CSS India. We reminded ourselves that one’s roots should never be forgotten. For CSS the saying that ‘from little acorns – oak trees grow’ holds true for us.

Today my colleagues, in India, have achieved an acclaimed dynamism and steadfast approach aimed at delivering the best. This has created a long lasting impression in the market in which they operate.  Accordingly, this historic juncture reminds us about the broader aspect of responsibility that is expected from each of us.  We must all employ strength and longevity, similar to that of an oak tree, to forge ahead by building on our solid and secure foundations.

Chairman’s Message

T S Kaladharan

‘You can’t always get what you want’ is the opening line from one of my personal favourite songs by The Rolling Stones. One of the tracks on their 1969 album, it is the second line which provides the encouraging answer. ‘But if you try sometimes you might find….You get what you need’. Does this sentiment strike a chord with you? Does it make you assess your approach to challenges? It is true to say that sometimes we need to accept life’s realities to understand more deeply what drives us. Our aspirations need to be forefront in our minds so as to give us the driving spirit which enables us to grow in life. We all need to try to stand any chance of succeeding.
Not only in our personal lives, but also in a business environment, we all need aspirations to motivate and focus our efforts. It is therefore pleasing to learn that our marketing department has confirmed that the aspirations of the Lighthouse team have been recognised. An amazing response from Lighthouse readers provides confirmation of the interest generated by news items and features showcased in our magazine. A good corporate magazine reflects and echoes the views and interests of its staff. We may all help Lighthouse build on its success by letting them know our views. Included in this edition is a survey form for those who haven’t completed the online survey. Your comments and suggestions will be particularly welcomed. Lighthouse belongs to all of us so I would like to extend, on behalf of Lighthouse, their gratitude for your patronage. Like all of us, I look forward to continuing to read informed, stimulating, and interesting news and features in Lighthouse.

Chairman’s Message

Paramount, during the last twenty-one years of our operations, has been the determination of CSS to cater for the ever growing demands from the shipping and logistics industry. We have been very particular in adopting the best practices so as to service our clients around the globe. Each and every decision we have taken, from time to time, has been focused on offering the best outcomes for our customers. It is therefore with great satisfaction that we find ourselves standing, here today, with our extensive presence in the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent. Our latest developments, in Qatar and Oman, are in line with our decision to provide exemplary service.
This commitment, and the ever growing demand for storage, has driven CSS to increase the capacity of our facilities in the Jebel Ali Free Zone. As a result we have equipped ourselves with an additional 40,000 sq.ft, warehouse facility and 100,000 sq. ft. open yard storage, ready for our customers’ occupation. This is an opportune time to announce the availability of this huge facility as we are on the doorstep of our annual Sales Strategy Meet. Whilst the management and team-heads plan and design concepts and ideas, to take up new challenges and face the existing demands of the industry, CSS commends this new Jebel Ali Free Zone addition as our latest offering towards boosting the commerce and industry of the Middle East economy.
The world of logistics is moving at such a fast pace, that companies are compelled to form specialised task forces. Such a move will effectively combine the knowledge and skill based workforces in order to cope with this invigorating environment. Although we appreciate the demands concerning the urgency of products and services, we know it’s the results that are paramount. This is invariably the primary focus of our discussions; which is why our Sales Strategy Meet always proves to be a valuable opportunity to present what we have achieved, as well as what we have in store as our future strategy.

Chairman’s Message

Being able to share some good news invariably makes us happy. After months of hard work from my colleagues, CSS has started its services from Qatar and Oman. This is a great and proud event for all of us at CSS, not least, because this achievement is the result of collective effort by all our staff and stake holders.  This is a truly justified reason for all of us to be happy.
It’s is true that significant moments aren’t just about opening new offices or even having a new presence. An occasion becomes noteworthy because it inaugurates the beginning of another success story. With a continued belief in ourselves, hard work and a commitment to our future, we can be sure that our efforts will not go unnoticed in these new regions of the Middle East.
I never forget my roots and an ability to take farsighted decisions based on our abilities and ethics.  CSS was founded in 1995 and has grown to become a reputed name in the freight forwarding and logistics businesses, throughout the Middle East and Indian subcontinent. To achieve this success, at certain points of growth, critical decision taking was required. When the business forecasts demands a change in your existing pattern, it is better to switch over to a more convenient form of progress rather than to try and rectify the current one. My experiences underscore my belief that to hold back a decision, because of uncertainty, is a crime which cannot be pardoned.
We are at an historic CSS landmark because we have taken a decision to commence CSS services provision, utilising our infrastructure and highly experienced staff, in Oman and Qatar. I am confident that this step, involving as it does two major economic power centres in the Middle East, will prove to be the right decision at the right time. I still get the same excitement, when taking decisions, as it did way back in 1995. This current decision equally excites me and I happily anticipate success for us all at CSS and our stake holders.

Chairman’S Message

T S Kaladharan

It is in challenging times that the true merit of a company comes shining through. Whilst there has been a general sluggish trend in our industry, the past few months have proved to be really encouraging for CSS Group because we have been successfully creating a road map for areas of development.  This has not happened by accident but by sticking to demonstrably ethical principles and a belief in our management and staff.
In this context the current buzz phrase is ‘customised development of talent’. This is something we have been doing, within CSS, for years. Its present-day title only recently came into prominence but, ensuring that the right people are in the right roles and have the right capabilities; has always been part of our ethos. By keeping open continuous dialogue between management and staff, so that everyone feels engaged and recognises that their role is appreciated, raises mutual benefits for all of us. By encouraging opportunities to promote, from within our company, also significantly increases the likelihood of achieving ones goals.
A recent study revealed that many companies, who proved to be initially successful, degenerated over the years either because of bad management, poor managerial practices or a combination of both.  Within CSS, over the past twenty years, by applying the principles of customised development of talent we have successfully created a team of leaders. Our staff efficiency and trust worthiness is well known throughout the industry. This is why our identification of growth opportunities deserves acclaim.
We have made significant progress in the UAE. Furthermore as part of expanding our wings; CSS will soon have an operational presence in both Muscat and Qatar. I am confident that we can keep this pace going forward.  Undoubtedly an ability to engage all staff equally and responsively, an aspect that is ingrained in our philosophy, will spur us onwards towards new horizons.