Driving Delta Bogart Business Success through Operational Excellence

Ilanga Kumudu

Chief Operating Officer,

Delta Galil Industries

With a proven track record of driving organizational growth and operational excellence, Ilanga’s journey in manufacturing began in 1996, when he enrolled in a textile engineering program at a prestigious university in Sri Lanka. During his formative years, Ilanga developed a deep interest in industrial processes and automation technologies, leading him to secure an internship at MAS Holdings-Slimline Pvt. Ltd. servings immediately after graduating. This experience provided invaluable hands-on insights into industrial engineering and attached to Bodyline Pvt. Ltd. to start a career. With the support of both, Delta Galil and MAS Holdings broadened his overall operational expertise to build up the career where he is today. Over the course of 28 years, Ilanga progressed from an industrial engineer to leadership roles in production/quality, manufacturing excellence (Lean), and automation, optimizing processes and enhancing efficiency. His expertise expanded into all manufacturing areas and regulatory compliance and sustainability, culminating in his current role as COO, overseeing operations across multiple countries, reflecting continuous growth. As COO of Delta Bogart Lingerie Ltd., Ilanga integrates advanced technologies and lean manufacturing principles to enhance productivity and sustainability. His leadership transformed manufacturing operations through automation and advanced technologies, solidifying the company’s position in sustainable practices. Ilanga fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, empowering teams through inclusive leadership practices. His strategic foresight and operational acumen highlight his effectiveness as a dynamic COO in the competitive manufacturing sector. In an exclusive interview with TradeFlock, Ilanga discussed his strategic foresight, operational acumen, and more.

How has your background influenced your leadership style and career success in a competitive industry?

My upbringing and cultural background deeply influence my leadership style and career trajectory. Raised with values of integrity, resilience, and respect, I prioritize ethical conduct, inclusivity, and social responsibility. Multicultural experiences have broadened my understanding of global business dynamics, enabling effective leadership across diverse teams and markets. By emphasizing empathy and compassion, I build trust, motivate teams, Ilanga Kumudu Chief Operating Officer, Delta Galil Industries Driving Delta Bogart Business Success through Operational Excellence Asia’s Best COOs 2024 26 and foster collaboration, ensuring every voice is valued in an innovative work environment. These values, along with my strategic vision, analytical mindset, effective communication skills, and commitment to continuous learning, have been pivotal in navigating a dynamic and competitive industry landscape. They enable me to foresee trends, seize opportunities, drive growth, and maintain transparency and integrity, earning trust and respect within the industry while sustaining business growth effectively.

How did you support Delta Galil in integrating sustainability for a competitive edge?

During my tenure as COO, I led a significant transformation at Delta Bogart by prioritizing continuous improvement and sustainability. We redesigned manufacturing operations with advanced technologies and leaned on enhancing efficiency. Investments in automation were crucial, fostering collaboration and empowering teams for innovation. Integrating sustainability was pivotal; strategic material sourcing, energy efficiency goals, waste management, and community engagement bolstered corporate responsibility, enhancing brand reputation and profitability. To navigate challenges like low demand, we adopted agile practices and optimized manufacturing, ensuring Delta Bogart remains competitive with superior pricing, quality, and efficient delivery while adapting to global market shifts.

How have you impacted the P&L and branding of the organization?

Our strategic initiatives have not only boosted our financial performance and brand equity but also strengthened our market position globally. By optimizing manufacturing and supply chain operations, we are enhancing profitability and efficiency. Embracing sustainability has deepened customer trust through transparent practices and ethical standards. Our brand is now synonymous with innovation, quality, agility, and social responsibility, setting us apart in a competitive landscape. Moreover, our commitment to talent development and engagement continues to drive innovation and foster a dynamic work culture, ensuring sustained growth and success.

What key challenge did you overcome creatively in operations?

Navigating the competitive fashion manufacturing industry involves addressing global supply chain complexities, notably in regions like Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, and China. We implemented a robust strategy emphasizing transparency, efficiency, and resilience through strategic partnerships, advanced inventory systems, and predictive analytics. In apparel manufacturing, operational challenges are ongoing. We streamlined processes with Lean principles, integrating automation and digitalization for efficiency and product quality. Continuous improvement through proactive problem-solving was crucial, aligning strategic decisions with customer needs to ensure flexible production schedules and offerings that meet dynamic market demands. Adapting to diverse global cultural landscapes underscores our commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction. Most importantly, the right talent for leadership positions is very crucial in today’s context.

What strategies and ideas have you implemented to overcome supply chain and logistics challenges?

Overcoming supply chain and logistics challenges has been critical. Implementing robust planning management and demand forecasting improved our ability to anticipate market trends. Strategic partnerships with suppliers and streamlined communication channels bolstered transparency and responsiveness. Agile supply chain practices and contingency planning minimized risks amid geopolitical uncertainties and economic fluctuations. Prioritizing sustainability, we sourced ethically and reduced transportation emissions, reinforcing our brand reputation and customer loyalty.

Looking ahead, what are your future plans for Delta Galil for the next five years?

Looking ahead, my plans for Delta Galil involve the continuous development and sustainability of our business unit for the long term, ensuring a seamless transition to the next generation. Business improvement strategies will be essential to navigate ongoing challenges and maintain customer loyalty. Thinking innovatively while maintaining simplicity in our processes will keep us ahead in the competitive landscape. I envision continuing my global role with Delta Galil, a privilege I am committed to upholding.







     







       







         







           







             







               







                 







                   







                     







                       







                         







                           







                             







                               







                                 







                                   







                                     







                                       







                                         







                                           







                                             

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