Beyond The Boardroom - In conversation with Mr. Vineett Kapila Cofounder & CEO | Goballyhooo Brand Solutions

Vineett Kapila, Co-founder & CEO, Goballyhooo Brand Solutions LLP,

Could you introduce yourself to our audience?

I have more than 34 years of experience as a seasoned business professional. My wife, Sujatha, is a holistic coach with a PhD in metaphysical sciences. We have a daughter, Vahini, who is married to Milind. Both Vahini and Milind are business consultants based in Dubai, UAE. I am an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, India (IIM A) and have studied Aeronautical Engineering at Punjab Aircraft Maintenance Engineering College (PAMEC).

Throughout my professional tenure, I have consistently demonstrated an entrepreneurial mindset and an unwavering commitment to effecting substantial change. My portfolio encompasses spearheading business transformation initiatives across diverse industries and the adeptness to navigate intricate business landscapes, thereby cultivating sustainable and lucrative enterprises. I have overseen greenfield endeavours, revitalized struggling business operations, steered noteworthy growth within sizable P&Ls, expanded into global markets and executed successful market withdrawals. I am genuinely invigorated by the potential of AIML, digitization, emerging technologies, and novel business paradigms in fostering enduring growth prospects for the present and the future.

Could you tell us about your ventures and their services?

Currently, I am spearheading two business ventures. One is Goballyhooo Brand Solutions, and the other is 720 Transform Consulting. Goballyhooo is a cohesive branding and marketing solutions consultancy. At Goballyhooo, we combine strategic thinking with creative execution. We closely work with clients to craft compelling brand narratives that resonate with consumers and differentiate the brand in a crowded marketplace. By leveraging data-driven insights and innovative marketing techniques, we help businesses build strong, memorable brands that drive customer loyalty and business growth. We offer distinct services that cater to different aspects of a business’s marketing and communication needs, i.e., virtual CMO, brand strategy and architecture, digital marketing, creative development, brand TOV, and social media management, coupled with tactical execution and driving immediate results through omnichannel campaign management to build and maintain a brand’s long-term identity and reputation.

720 Transform Consulting is a boutique business consulting firm that focuses on driving excellence and innovation across India and the Middle East. We specialize in providing comprehensive business services in the fields of strategy, growth, human resources, and leadership development. Our mission is to empower organisations to achieve their full potential through tailored solutions and expert guidance. We unlock shareholder value by transforming the way organizations operate, perform, and grow. By providing customized solutions, ensuring tangible outcomes, delivering breakthrough value, and improving your position for the future, we bring significant industry and functional expertise to our partnership.

 

Could you share an overview of your professional journey, highlighting the key milestones and achievements in your career?

Over three decades, I have had the privilege of engaging in a diverse and fulfilling career. This journey has provided me with numerous opportunities to establish successful ventures across a wide range of sectors, including advertising, business consulting, start-ups, FMCG, franchising, education, retail, e-commerce, telecommunication, and manufacturing.

Throughout my career journey, I have achieved several notable successes in the business realm. These include the development and implementation of a customer-centric business strategy for a prominent test preparation education vertical, aimed at improving student acquisition and enhancing Net Promoter Score (NPS). Additionally, I provided counsel on building a robust student pipeline and fostering brand affinity for a leading international education student aggregator business with a global presence. I also led the transformation of the distribution vertical for a major electrical manufacturing conglomerate in the MENA region. Furthermore, I played a pivotal role in enabling the next phase of growth for a well-established family business specializing in Fast Moving Electrical Goods (FMEG) and manufacturing. Another significant achievement was preparing a comprehensive business blueprint for the executive education and training vertical of a large government university in the UAE. Additionally, I successfully executed a business growth strategy that created value at the base of the economic pyramid for a major watch and eyewear distribution company operating in the GCC Region. Lastly, I provided valuable assistance to a leading social expression brand in its digital transformation and e-commerce endeavours.

 

What motivated you to start your own business, and how has that influenced your leadership style?

While interacting with various clients, especially mid-cap companies or MSMEs. I realised that there is a huge demand-supply gap for business services in a combination of strategic advice, organizational development, leadership mentoring, business process optimisation, and brand sustainability, which led to the starting of 720 Transform Consulting in 2019 and later in early 2023 Goballyhooo Brand Solutions. Both ventures have been successful and well-received by their target audience.

Throughout my career, I have transited through various leadership styles, depending on the business demand and its emotional challenges. The most evident style is Democratic leadership, which allows people to embrace shared decision-making and open communication and enhances team empowerment. Since becoming an entrepreneur, I have also used a coaching leadership style, which provides guidance, support, and development opportunities for team members and associates. As a leader, you should be open to embracing change; as they say, “CHANGE IS THE ONLY CONSTANT.”

 

Could you elaborate on your current roles and responsibilities?

Within Goballyhooo, I work alongside two other co-founders, Mr. Arijeet Kalita, who serves as our Chief Creative Officer, and Mr. Arun Panda, who acts as our Chief Operating Officer. Both individuals bring with them two decades of extensive experience. This dynamic, combined with our management team, allows for a seamless and fluid execution of responsibilities. While each team member has clearly defined areas of action, the nature of our small team sometimes leads to overlapping roles.

In my capacity as a co-founder and CEO, my primary focus lies in establishing the business vision, strategic planning, and developing the internal capabilities necessary to meet vertical expertise and requirements. Additionally, I am dedicated to forging business alliances to provide clients with unique services. I am also committed to ensuring our preparedness for VUCA challenges. Alongside managing senior-level client relationships.

 

What key skills and attributes are vital for an effective brand evangelist?

A brand evangelist is a devoted advocate capable of effectively and genuinely promoting your brand. These individuals are integral to your company, playing a pivotal role in fostering brand recognition, cultivating customer loyalty, and ultimately, boosting your revenue.

Brand evangelists are not mere individuals; they are the most ardent supporters of your brand. They surpass expectations in sharing their passion for your brand with others. They compose glowing reviews, create captivating social media content, and enthusiastically recommend your products and services to their acquaintances.

There are a few key qualities that make a great brand evangelist:

• Passion: Brand evangelists are passionate about a brand and what it stands for.
• Authenticity: Brand evangelists are genuine and authentic. They don't try to be someone they're not.
• Influential: Brand evangelists have a strong social following and are influential in their community.
• Engaging: Brand evangelists can connect with their audience and create compelling content that people want to share.
• Empathy: Brand evangelist empathizing with the needs and concerns of the audience. This helps in creating meaningful connections and fostering loyalty.
• Adaptability: Brand evangelists can adapt to changing market trends and audience preferences. This ensures that their advocacy remains relevant and effective.

 

What guidance would you offer aspiring entrepreneurs embarking on their journey?

Entrepreneurship encompasses a multifaceted and intricate domain. The attainment of success as an entrepreneur demands a combination of passion, expertise, and mindset. Most importantly, it requires self-confidence and unwavering perseverance—confronting setbacks, persisting, and iterating until triumph is achieved. A deep sense of purpose and an innate enthusiasm for your endeavour are crucial, as they drive your determination and resilience when faced with adversity. The journey to success is often tumultuous.

Endurance and tenacity are essential for overcoming obstacles and remaining committed to your goals. Identifying and innovatively resolving challenges is a defining characteristic of prosperous entrepreneurs. Developing a product or service that provides unique value (USP) to your target market is vital for differentiation. Understanding financial principles, budgeting, and effectively managing cash flow are critical for sustainable progress. While embracing risk is crucial, making well-informed decisions based on data and analysis is paramount.

The ability to adapt and revise your approach in response to evolving market dynamics is fundamental for long-term success. Cultivating strong relationships with mentors, investors, and industry influencers can provide valuable guidance and opportunities. Prioritizing customer satisfaction and nurturing enduring customer relationships are essential for sustainable growth. It is important to recognize that the path to becoming a successful entrepreneur involves continuous learning, development, and resilience. By fostering these fundamental elements, you can enhance your prospects of realizing your entrepreneurial aspirations. Always "STAY HUNGRY, STAY FOOLISH."