“Starting from security of raw materials to group operating plants and going down to finished products, we will become far more integrated as a group than what we are today,” shared Mr Muthuraman, on his vision and expectations for Tata Steel by the year 2012. For the next five years, the Group will grow rapidly – acquiring raw material sources, developing both upstream and downstream operations, and providing building solutions. All these will enable the various companies under the Group to be more interconnected, resulting in stronger and more profitable growth for Tata Steel.

As the Group moves forward with its acquisition plans, Tata Steel will be leveraging the increasing brand value of the Tata name, which has soared in the past five years. Mr Muthuraman said, “One of the biggest advantages that we have is the enhanced image of Tata Steel (now) known as the good acquirer of companies; one which is responsible and respects others.”

When the Group becomes more profitable, it is able to provide better welfare and benefits to its employees. More importantly, this will be an exciting period for all as the Group expands; career progression and learning opportunities abound. “The opportunities are going to be enormous and it is for you to grab the opportunity,” said Mr Muthuraman as he encouraged everyone to develop and prepare himself for the opportunities that will arise.

Beyond 2012

A bright future is on the horizon for Tata Steel. As Mr Muthuraman said, “It’s not impossible to think of Tata Steel as perhaps the No.1 steel company in the world with a capacity of much more than 100 million tonnes.”