Bangladesh to Singapore, the United States, and Indonesia, where he managed some of BAT’s largest factories.
Arshad grew up in Chittagong, Bangladesh, in a lower-middle-class family. As a child, he was always curious about how things worked—machines, factories, and businesses. This curiosity led him to study mechanical engineering at BUET, one of the best universities in Bangladesh. After graduating, he started his career at BAT Bangladesh in Kushtia, working in leaf operations. It was his first job in a big company, and he quickly realized that factories were more than just machines—they were about people, teamwork, and leadership. He learned how to keep operations smooth, improve efficiency, and solve problems before they happened.
Over the years, his dedication and hard work helped him rise in ranks. He didn’t just sit in an office; he spent time on the factory floor, talking to workers, understanding their challenges, and finding ways to make things better. His leadership style made him stand out, and soon, he was given bigger responsibilities. This took him beyond Bangladesh to Singapore, the United States, and Indonesia, where he managed some of BAT’s largest factories.
Arshad’s first big international assignment was in Singapore, where he led one of BAT’s most advanced factories. Here, technology played a huge role in making production faster and more efficient. It was also a place where he faced new challenges—adapting to a different work culture, leading people from different backgrounds, and handling high expectations.
One day, a Bangladeshi worker in the factory approached him with tears in his eyes.
He said, “I’m so proud to see a fellow Bangladeshi leading this factory. I told my son back home about you, and now he dreams of working hard and achieving great things too.”
That moment changed something inside Arshad. He realized his journey wasn’t just about his own success—it was about inspiring others. He carried that motivation forward into every role he took on.
From Singapore, Arshad was sent to the United States to manage BAT’s largest factory in North Carolina. This was a whole new level of responsibility. The factory produced massive amounts of products every day, and even a small delay could cost millions. Managing such a large-scale operation meant making quick decisions, optimizing production lines, and leading a huge workforce.
Arshad’s leadership helped improve efficiency in the factory, making sure everything ran smoothly and that resources were used wisely. He focused on teamwork, data-driven decisions, and using new technology to reduce waste and increase productivity.
Indonesia- A Factory Built from Scratch
Perhaps Arshad’s biggest challenge came in Indonesia, where he was given a task that very few people ever get—to build a factory from the ground up. It wasn’t just about setting up machines; it was about creating an entire system—hiring workers, training them, ensuring safety, and making sure the new factory could meet global production standards.
At the same time, he worked on a huge transformation project across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, making sure BAT’s factories were modernized, more efficient, and better connected. This required managing multiple countries, different regulations, and diverse teams—a true test of his leadership.
What makes Arshad stand out is that he isn’t just a “boss.” He has worked both in factories and in leadership meetings, which means he understands both the small details and the big picture. He listens to workers, values their opinions, and believes in creating a culture where everyone feels important. His leadership is built on humility, teamwork, and innovation—three things that have helped him succeed in every country he has worked in.
Arshad believes that artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the world of manufacturing. In the past, companies relied on people to check machines and products. But now, AI can predict problems before they happen, making factories faster, smarter, and more efficient. For example:
AI can track machine performance and prevent breakdowns before they cause delays. AI can check product quality with high-speed cameras, reducing errors and waste. AI can analyze market trends, helping companies produce the right products at the right time.
According to Arshad, if countries like the United States want to stay ahead, they must invest more in AI, automation, and worker training. He believes that the future belongs to companies that embrace technology while still valuing human skills and creativity.
Arshad Shares Five Key Strategies for the Future of Manufacturing. Define a Long-Term AI & Automation Strategy, to stay ahead, businesses must develop a clear roadmap for AI and automation, ensuring these technologies align with their long-term goals. This means investing in the right tools, using AI for innovation rather than just cost-cutting, and consistently updating strategies to adapt to emerging technologies. With AI evolving rapidly, companies that fail to plan ahead risk being left behind in an increasingly automated world.
The future of manufacturing is highly automated, with AI-powered robotics taking over repetitive tasks to improve speed, precision, and safety. Companies should start with small automation projects, train employees to work alongside AI, and gradually scale their efforts. Automation can increase productivity by over 10%, reducing costs and boosting efficiency across the production line.
AI thrives on high-quality data, making it essential for manufacturers to build a digital infrastructure that connects machines, processes, and analytics. This includes installing sensors for real-time monitoring, using AI-driven insights to optimize production, and strengthening cybersecurity to protect critical information. A data-driven approach helps factories become more agile, predictive, and responsive to challenges.
While AI and automation will handle repetitive tasks, human expertise remains irreplaceable. Companies must train employees to work with AI, reskill workers for evolving roles, and attract young talent to the industry. With an estimated 2 million unfilled jobs in manufacturing by 2030, businesses that prioritize workforce development will maintain a competitive edge.
Thriving in an AI-driven world requires a mindset of continuous improvement. Companies should encourage employees to experiment with new ideas, collaborate with tech partners and universities, and carefully manage changes to ensure smooth adoption of AI. Businesses that embrace innovation outpace competitors, drive growth, and remain resilient in an ever-evolving market.
Today, Arshad is responsible for over 20 BAT factories across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. His journey—from a small-town boy in Bangladesh to a global leader—shows that hard work, confidence, and humility can take you anywhere.
When young professionals ask for his advice, he always says: “Dream big, believe in yourself, and stay humble.”
His story is proof that no dream is too big, and no background is too small. Whether you’re a student, a worker, or someone looking for inspiration, Arshad’s journey is a reminder that with passion and persistence, anything is possible.
The future of manufacturing will be AI-powered and automated, but success will depend on leaders who can combine technology with strong people skills. Arshad’s career proves that great leadership is about both vision and action. As industries evolve, those who embrace AI, invest in workers, and innovate will stay ahead.
The question is: Who will be ready for the future?
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