Karan Monga is a Supply Chain and Operations Management expert who has made significant contributions to the industry, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. His journey from founding his own company at the age of 22 to leading multi-billion-dollar projects for a large multinational corporation is nothing short of inspiring. In this article, we’ll explore his background, career highlights, and the unique perspective he brings to the field of supply chain management.
Born and raised in India, Karan completed his undergraduate degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering. His engineering background provided him with a strong foundation in analytical skills, which would later prove invaluable in his career. Driven by ambition and a desire to broaden his horizons, he sought internships and management trainee positions in Indonesia, working with organisations like the United Nations and ChildFund, which were focused on serving communities impacted by the devastating tsunami.
Karan’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own company, Team DoTExE, at the age of 22. Recognizing a need in the education industry for better IT solutions and services, he leveraged his own experiences from preparing for the rigorous GMAT to develop a company that would provide these solutions to students in need.
During his MBA, Karan’s pursuit of academic excellence was complemented by practical engagement with the USC/Columbia Technology Incubator. Here, he provided strategic consulting to over 40 start-up companies, developing business models, crafting business plans, and devising launch strategies. This multifaceted experience not only enhanced his entrepreneurial acumen but also demonstrated his commitment to fostering innovation and supporting emerging ventures.
After completing his International MBA from the University of South Carolina, Karan transitioned into roles in supply chain and operations management for large multinational Fortune 500 companies like International Paper and Amazon. During his time at International Paper, Karan led a team responsible for managing $170 million worth of inventory and ensuring optimal customer satisfaction. He also spearheaded a project to procure transportation for all of the company’s mills, distribution centres, and regional distribution centres, resulting in a $16 million savings.
At Amazon, Karan played a pivotal role in managing the health and personal care categories during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing the urgent need to keep essential products like toilet paper, paper towels, and hand sanitizers in stock, he sprang into action. “As soon as I realized the demand was through the roof and there was not enough supply, I started calling manufacturers, writing manual purchase orders, and brainstorming ways to bring products to the customers in dire need. Helping the consumers was my calling,” he remarked, describing his proactive approach to ensuring these crucial items remained available to consumers.
He implemented new and alternate supply chain programs to ensure that these items were available to consumers during the COVID supply chain crunch, a monumental effort that significantly alleviated shortages and ensured uninterrupted access to essential goods, thereby playing a pivotal role in supporting communities and businesses during a critical period.
Throughout his career, Karan has consistently demonstrated his ability to identify opportunities for improvement and implement effective strategies to drive growth and development. His unique perspective and innovative mindset have earned him recognition in the form of awards, including the Excellence Outreach Award Fellowship, which assisted him with his MBA fees when he pursued his International MBA in Global Supply Chain and Operations Management & International Business from the University of South Carolina.
Looking to the future, Karan has purchased a commercial property with plans to expand his philanthropic endeavours. Currently rented to a non-profit organisation, the Center of Success, which helps to build and develop the talents and capabilities of marginalized communities, Karan has been actively supporting their efforts financially.
As an expert in his field, Karan continues to inspire others with his dedication, ambition, and innovative approach to supply chain management. His journey from a small-town engineer to a successful entrepreneur and a leader in his industry is a testament to the power of determination and hard work.