Shams Hirani

Job Profile:
- Handle overall marketing and branding of Gems & Jewellery sector locally and internationally
- Create opportunities for B2B links and business development for gems and jewellery companies in international markets
- Promote products and designs of the gems and jewellery companies in the international markets
- Organize Pakistan pavilion spearheading Pakistani exhibitors/delegation in international gems and jewellery exhibitions
- Organize marketing related trainings/seminars/workshops for the development of the gems and jewellery companies -

Notable Accomplishments:
• Played lead role in developing Concept Note with a team including representative from Ministry and sector development professionals for seeking EU Funding of 2 million Euros for Gems & Jewellery sector development.
• Organized 24 Gem Bazaars in Peshawar (14), Quetta (8), Lahore (1), Islamabad (1) providing a lucrative platform for business activity and export opportunities for the sector.
• Organized the mega Gem Bazaar in Islamabad with complete planning and execution providing an outstanding exposure of Pakistani gemstones and mineral specimens to the international buyers.
• Promoted the Company and the Gems & Jewellery industry of Pakistan in Tucson Show (USA), Munich Show (Germany), Hong Kong Fair and Bangkok Fair (Thailand) in 2010 representing the Company, organizing Pakistan pavilion and spearheading the delegation of exhibitors. Represented the Company in the Bangkok Gems & Jewellery Fair in September 2011 as well and explored business and sector development opportunities for the country.
• Launched jewellery design models (developed through RP Machine in CAD/CAM technology) in Hong Kong and Thailand in 2010, which translated into inquiries and orders.
• Developed marketing and promotional material including launching of four Company’s newsletters, Gem Bazaar Documentary (with cost effectiveness), Company brochure, Gem Exchange flyers, and souvenirs/gifts.

Strategic planning for trainings and HR Services - Business development including Learning & Development and consulting services on a profit sharing basis - Co-facilitating training programs like Leadership & Management Skills, Communication Skills and Customer Services - HR services including HR Policies, Job Evaluation, Climate Surveys and Psychometric Services - Business development for open enrolment and in-house training programs.

Notable Accomplishments:
• Independently facilitated and co-facilitated Communication Skills workshops for doctors, managers and supervisors.
• Developed and marketed a flagship training program licensed from US based management training organization - from business development to execution resulting in achieving ground work for a kick start.
• Developed marketing strategy with an implementation plan for business development and service offerings in the market.
• Developed operations for Learning Management as well as business development and trained the staff for effective compliance.
• Handled customized training projects for existing clients ensuring complete customer service.

Responsibilities included:
- New product development and packaging
- Managing export orders for assigned territories
- Developing and implementing marketing plans for international markets
- Coordination with R&D, supply chain, ad agencies and suppliers
- Launching promotions for international markets
- Conducting focus groups and observational studies
- Developing and managing packaging for complete product range offered in all international markets
- Studying and ensuring compliance with international food and labeling laws
- Ensuring brand registrations in different countries.

Notable Accomplishments:

• Developed and launched: 20 new variants of Spice Mix range for Canada in one year resulting overwhelming shelf presence with 200% increase in sales in the category in one year - Pickles range of Raj Company’s Raj Masala brand as a main competitor to top Indian brands like Patak’s & Rajah, increasing sales threefold in the subsequent year in UK and Canada - Raj Masala Sauces range increasing the sales of the category by 60%.

• Improved product formulation and packaging of Raj Masala Curry Pastes range resulting in a double sales in one year.

• Developed and successfully launched Raj Masala website targeting mainstream (Caucasian) consumers.

• Streamlined export order processing by increasing efficiency in order processing and accuracy in costing.

• Executed secondary research on exports of food items from Pakistan contributing to a comprehensive five-year export strategy in 2002.

• Conceived and planned BTL Activities targeting the ethnic (Pakistani & Indian) population for National product range especially in Saudi Arabia, Australia, USA, Canada and EU resulting in increased brand awareness.