Leaders

Pooja Chawla Gandhi: Driving Excellence in Material Handling with Vision & Resilience

Pooja Chawla Gandhi
CEO & Director, Weyenberg Resources India
Mumbai

The University of Mumbai has long stood as one of India’s most prestigious institutions, shaping generations of professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. Known for its academic rigour and diverse learning environment, the university has consistently nurtured talent across disciplines, empowering students to excel in both national and global arenas.

Its alumni network is a testament to this legacy which spans industries such as business, technology, healthcare, and public service.

Among its many distinguished alumni, women leaders have emerged as powerful forces of change, breaking barriers and redefining leadership across traditionally male-dominated sectors.

These women embody resilience, innovation, and determination, carrying forward the university’s ethos while contributing meaningfully to industry and society. Their journeys reflect not only personal ambition but also a commitment to excellence and impact.

One such inspiring leader is Pooja Chawla Gandhi, CEO & Director, Weyenberg Resources India, who represents the spirit of modern entrepreneurship rooted in strong foundational values. Her professional journey was shaped significantly during her formative years.

Deeply influenced by her father, Surinder Chawla, she found her earliest lessons in business not in textbooks but through real-world exposure. Being closely associated with his business from a young age provided her with invaluable insights into the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.

During her college years, she spent considerable time at her father’s office, observing the nuances of business operations. From understanding how relationships are built and nurtured to witnessing how challenges are approached with patience and determination, these experiences became the cornerstone of her professional mindset.

They instilled in her a sense of discipline, responsibility, and a strong work ethic — qualities that continue to define her leadership style.

This early exposure not only built her confidence but also shaped her vision of becoming a business leader. Over time, it motivated her to establish her own company in the material handling industry — an achievement that reflects both her perseverance and her ability to translate foundational learning into real-world success.

Today, Pooja Chawla Gandhi stands as a remarkable example of how the right influences, combined with determination, can pave the way for impactful leadership.

What inspired you to build your career in material handling? How did your professional journey shape your expertise in this industry?

My interest in the material handling industry developed gradually as I gained deeper exposure and began to understand its critical role in supporting large-scale industrial operations such as ports, steel plants, and heavy machinery sectors. The complexity and importance of these operations made the field both challenging and exciting for me.

Over time, I had the opportunity to work closely with specialised crane components such as cable reeling drums, power cables, control cables, and wire ropes. This hands-on experience helped me build strong technical knowledge and practical insight into how these systems function in demanding industrial environments.

Additionally, collaborating with international manufacturers and working on diverse projects broadened my understanding of global standards, technologies, and best practices. These experiences have played a key role in shaping my expertise and strengthening my foundation in the material handling industry.

Introduce us to Weyenberg Resources India. What are your primary roles and responsibilities?

Weyenberg Resources India specialises in delivering electromechanical engineering solutions and supplying high-quality components to the material handling industry. We work closely with partners in Germany and South Korea to source and bring advanced, specialised components to the Indian market.

Our offerings cater to critical sectors such as ports, steel plants, and the cement industry, providing essential products like cable reeling systems, wire ropes, and specialised cables that support efficient crane operations.

As CEO & Director, I am responsible for steering the company’s strategic direction and growth. My role focuses on strengthening relationships with global partners, expanding our network, driving business development initiatives, and ensuring we consistently deliver reliable, high-performance solutions to our clients.

Leadership in the material handling industry comes with its own challenges. What have been some of the most pressing challenges you have faced, and how did you navigate through them?

One of the early challenges I faced was building credibility in a traditionally male-dominated industry. There were moments of scepticism, and I had to consistently demonstrate my knowledge and capabilities through performance. Over time, by delivering reliable solutions and maintaining high standards, I was able to earn trust and establish strong professional relationships.

Another significant challenge has been navigating complex supply chains and adhering to strict timelines, where even small delays can impact large-scale operations. I addressed this by strengthening collaborations with global suppliers, prioritising quality, and ensuring clear and transparent communication with clients.

Continuous learning, adaptability, and the support of a dedicated team — as well as my husband, Amit, who has been a constant pillar of support — have been instrumental in helping me overcome these challenges. His understanding and encouragement have allowed me to pursue my professional goals without limitations, creating a strong foundation both personally and professionally.

Looking back at your journey, what key milestones or achievements stand out? What is your personal success mantra?

One of the most defining milestones in my journey has been building my own company and establishing a strong, credible presence in the material handling industry. Creating meaningful international partnerships and earning the trust of clients across sectors has been both fulfilling and motivating.

My success mantra is rooted in staying focused, acting with integrity, and embracing continuous learning. I strongly believe that sustainable success does not happen overnight — it is built through consistency, perseverance, and the ability to nurture long-term professional relationships.

Remaining adaptable, committed, and open to growth has helped me navigate challenges and continue progressing in my entrepreneurial journey.

How do you foresee the Weyenberg Resources India landscape evolving in India? What major trends will define the future of the sector?

The material handling industry in India is witnessing rapid growth, driven by expanding infrastructure, increasing port activity, evolving logistics networks, and rising steel production. This growth is significantly boosting the demand for high-quality crane components and advanced electromechanical systems.

Looking ahead, key trends such as automation, intelligent crane systems, predictive maintenance, and digital monitoring technologies are set to shape the future of the industry. There is also a stronger focus on safety, durability, and long-term reliability of equipment.

At Weyenberg, we are committed to staying aligned with these developments by introducing advanced technologies and innovative solutions that help our clients improve operational efficiency, enhance productivity, and minimise downtime.

Drawing from your experience, what advice would you like to share with aspiring women leaders?

Always have confidence in your abilities and be willing to embrace challenges without hesitation. Success comes from a combination of self-belief, determination, and a commitment to continuous learning and growth.

It is important for women not to feel discouraged by industries that have traditionally been male-dominated. Instead, such environments should be seen as opportunities to break barriers and prove capability. With persistence, resilience, and the right mindset, challenges can be transformed into stepping stones for growth.

Equally important is having a strong support system. In my own journey, having a partner like Amit — who is understanding, encouraging, and never limiting — has made a meaningful difference. That balance allows you to pursue professional ambitions with clarity and confidence.

With dedication, passion, and a willingness to keep evolving, women have the potential to lead organisations, drive change, and make a meaningful impact across any industry they choose.

Pooja Chawla Gandhi, CEO & Director, Weyenberg Resources India

Pooja Chawla Gandhi is the CEO & Director of Weyenberg Resources India, specialising in electromechanical solutions for the material handling industry. With over two decades of e xperience, she has built strong global partnerships and a credible industry presence. Known for her integrity and leadership, she continues to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth across industrial sectors.

Quick Facts

Educational Qualification

Bachelor’s degree in Economics

Awards & Recognitions

Recognised for her contributions to the material handling and maritime sector at the International Maritime Women Empowerment Conference and Awards 2023.

Success Mantra

Stay focused, work with integrity, and commit to continuous learning.

A Business Leader Who Inspires You

Stig Gustafsson — for his leadership in building a globally recognised material handling company through innovation and engineering excellence.