Dhananjay 'Jay' Datar, managing director, Al Adil Group

"Attention to detail is my mantra for success"

How do you start your day?
With a prayer. And since I strongly believe that without a healthy body, the mind cannot function effectively, I make it a point to follow that up with a stint of yoga. These give me the physical and mental strength to tackle the challenges for the day. I then work out a plan for the day and prepare a checklist of tasks to be completed.

Describe your work in a sentence.
I don't need a sentence. Passion - that single word describes my work.

What is your #1 success mantra at work?
Attention to every little detail is my personal success mantra. Across Al Adil stores, I sell around 8,000 products. I am involved in every aspect of the business: right from procurement of products till they are placed on the shelves for consumers. The products I deal with are all perishables, there is no scope for compromise at any stage. I ensure that even the minutest details are taken care of.

In your workday, what is the one thing you cannot do without?
My mobile phone. I manage a huge network of stores across the region. My phone helps me to keep track of what is happening across my stores. I have set in place a system wherein I get instant updates on important aspects related to my business.

Your favourite indulgence when you need a break from work?
Since work is a passion for me, there is no need for me to take a break. But I like to listen to soothing music since it refreshes my mind. I also enjoy travelling. I visit places like Seychelles, Mauritius etc, since I love beaches. I love to see the ebb and flow of the waves.  

What is your favourite place to go to for a business lunch or dinner?
It is difficult to choose since there are many good places in Dubai, each with its own specialities. But if I had to choose, for lunch it would be Tresind and for dinner, Cavalli Club.

What is your greatest dream, professionally?
Professionally and personally, there is no great dream for me. For me, it is very important to be a good human being, and never compromise on human values.

Who is your biggest role model, and why?
My dad, Mahadev Datar. Whatever I have achieved till today is all because of my dad. He is not only my hero but is also my inspiration. In all my major decisions, I always try to analyse things from his perspective because he always had a different way of looking at things.

What is the last thing you (usually) do before you go to sleep?
Just like how I begin my day with a prayer, I also end my day with one. But before that, I crosscheck the tasks against the checklist that I had made in the morning and do a short analysis to ensure I've completed what I'd planned.
- Staff Reporter