CEO Insights Magazine

In the realm of Bhutan's pharmaceutical industry, one name stands out as a beacon of visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence - Tshering Tenzin. As the CEO of Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals Corporation (MSPCL), Tenzin's journey has been characterized by dedication, transformative leadership, and a profound impact on the landscape of traditional medicine and healthcare in Bhutan.

Tshering Tenzin's visionary approach and ability to transform organizations make him a luminary in Bhutan's corporate landscape, and his leadership at MSPCL promises to usher in a new era of growth and innovation in the realm of traditional medicine and healthcare. Below is an excerpt of Tshering Tenzin’s exclusive interaction with CEO Insights ASIA magazine.

How has your professional journey been so far?

Coming from an electrical engineering background with a degree from NIT Hamirpur (formerly REC Hamirpur), Himachal Pradesh, India, I began my career with Bhutan Power Corporation, dedicating a decade in providing electricity to rural villages. My journey then led me to DHI Infra where I ventured into civil projects, gaining invaluable experience in the construction of road, bridge and water supply. Later, I landed up in Construction Development Corporation as the General Manager for Corporate Planning and Business Development, where I managed to secure numerous construction projects.

I took on the role of CEO at Dungsam Polymers from 2017 to 2022, steering it from years of losses to profitability, earning an extended tenure. Now, as CEO of Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals Corporation, I am enthralled by the pharmaceutical industry's intricacies. I am committed to leading this company toward a future filled with innovation and growth.

How would you define Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals Corporation as an organization and its current position in the market?

Traditional medicine has been an integral part of Bhutan's healthcare landscape for over five decades, providing our people with an alternative to allopathic medicine. The journey of Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals Corporation (MSPCL) traces back to its roots within the traditional medicine department under the government. In 2017, it emerged as a distinct corporation specializing in the manufacturing of traditional medicines. However, MSPCL's role extends far beyond that. While we are the sole manufacturer of traditional medicines in Bhutan, we also produce health supplements and wellness products.

My fascination lies in herbal products, and Bhutan's reputation as the ‘Valley of Medicine Plants’ further fuels my enthusiasm. Exploring these untouched treasures, particularly at altitudes of 3500 to 5000 meters, reveals a wealth of medicinal plants. There's immense potential in crafting premium herbal products and supplements, albeit largely untapped. To realize this potential, effective marketing strategies are essential to educate our customers about the value of our offerings beyond traditional medicines. MSPCL is poised to redefine wellness and herbal products in Bhutan.

What quality control measures you have adopted in the company to deliver the best quality services in the industry?

Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals, previously under the Ministry of Health, has undergone a transformative journey with the support of international funding. The acquisition of state-of-the-art machineries and laboratories has positioned us for excellence. My primary responsibility now is to establish and enforce rigorous Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) while maintaining a vigilant focus on the Quality Department. Quality is paramount, and I oversee it. The company’s goal is to ensure the safety and premium quality of every product. We are diligently working towards obtaining GMP certification, having already met over 90 percent of the requirements. This commitment to quality sets us apart from competitors, and I continuously monitor our processes to uphold this distinction. Our products stand as a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence.

Tell us about your leadership approach. What are the guidelines or methodologies you follow as a leader?

As a CEO, I am committed to being a role model for my team, setting the bar high for professionalism and dedication. I believe in personally connecting with each employee to understand their unique perspectives and encourage positive growth. Aligning the entire organization towards a common vision is a top priority. I have seen that unity and shared goals foster ownership and trust among the team. Upholding my principles and ethics is non-negotiable. Additionally, I prioritize building relationships and collaboration with other entities, seeking synergies rather than competition, to ensure mutual success in Bhutan's pharmaceutical landscape.

In light of your strong experience within the industry, what advice would you give to budding industry leaders?

In my view, having willpower is the driving force behind achieving the seemingly impossible. When you embark on a task, you must approach it with constant energy and focus. Since joining this company, my thoughts are entirely devoted to its growth and development. Every piece of information, every idea, I relate to this organization, constantly seeking ways to enhance it.

I consistently advocate for the principle of continuous improvement. Even if we achieve excellence today, the quest for improvement should persist tomorrow. There is no room for complacency. I emphasize this point with my team, reminding them that perfection is an ongoing journey, and the pursuit of betterment is our guiding principle.

Tshering Tenzin, CEO, Menjong Sorig Pharmaceuticals Corporation

Tshering Tenzin, an accomplished leader with an electrical engineering background, has held significant roles, including CEO. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, he continues to shape the corporate landscape, leaving a lasting impact on Bhutan's healthcare and pharmaceutical industries.