Biography of A.K Azad: Chairman of Azad Group (garment & textile sector)
Biography of A.K Azad:
Early Life and Education
A.K Azad was born on December 31, 1959, into a respected
Muslim family in Jhiltuli, Faridpur. His father, Late Alhaj MA Aziz, was a
highly regarded figure in the local community, known for his contributions to
social welfare and education. Azad completed his B.Sc. Honors in Applied
Physics from the University of Dhaka in 1983. Despite the allure of a
government job, Azad chose to chart his own path in business, driven by a
desire to create opportunities and contribute to economic growth.
Establishing Ha-Meem Group of Companies
The journey of A.K Azad into entrepreneurship began with the
establishment of Ha-Meem Group of Companies, where he assumed the role of
Managing Director. Starting from modest beginnings, Azad navigated through
numerous challenges, leveraging his resilience and business acumen to build a
diversified conglomerate. Ha-Meem Group emerged as a prominent player in
Bangladesh's industrial landscape, spanning sectors such as textiles, jute, RMG
(Ready-Made Garments), banking, and insurance.
Contributions to Bangladesh's Economy
Under Azad's stewardship, Ha-Meem Group not only flourished
domestically but also gained international recognition. The company's expansion
contributed significantly to Bangladesh's economic development, generating
employment opportunities and fostering industrialization. Azad views business
as a vehicle for societal advancement, emphasizing the role of private
enterprise in alleviating unemployment and driving sustainable growth.
Career in Business
Abdul Kader Azad is a prominent businessman and
industrialist in Bangladesh. He is the Chairman, CEO, and Managing Director of
Ha-meem Group of Companies, a leading conglomerate in the country. Under his
leadership since 1990, Ha-meem Group has grown significantly and plays a
pivotal role in Bangladesh’s garment manufacturing sector.
Contribution to Garment Industry
During challenging times for Bangladesh’s Ready-Made
Garments (RMG) sector, Azad and fellow entrepreneurs navigated post-quota
challenges with resilience. Today, Ha-meem Group exports a substantial portion
of Bangladeshi RMG products to Europe and America, contributing significantly
to the country's foreign currency earnings.
Political Career
On January 7, 2024, Abdul Kader Azad was elected as a Member
of Parliament from the Faridpur-3 constituency, marking his entry into formal
politics.
Entrepreneurial Journey and Sector Contributions
Throughout his career, Azad has been actively involved in
diverse sectors such as jute, textiles, tea, and the ready-made garment
industry. His ventures have not only bolstered these sectors but have also made
substantial contributions to Bangladesh's economy, notably through job
creation.
Leadership in Media and Banking
In addition to his industrial pursuits, Abdul Kader Azad
serves as the Managing Director of Channel 24 Television and plays a crucial
role in shaping the media landscape in Bangladesh. His leadership extends to
the financial sector as well, having recently been elected Chairman of
Shahjalal Islami Bank Limited during the bank's 373rd board meeting.
New Appointments at Shahjalal Islami Bank Limited
Mohammad Yunus and Mohiuddin Ahmed were also elected as Vice
Chairmen at the same meeting, marking a significant development in the bank's
governance structure.
Biography of A.K Azad: Chairman of Azad Group (garment & textile sector)/businessman/ real estate, construction, and textiles/investment & entrepreneur
Leadership in Business Organizations
Abdul Kader Azad has held key leadership roles in various
business associations. He served as the President of the Federation of
Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FBCCI) from April 2009 to July
2013, advocating for the interests of the private sector in Bangladesh. He also
contributed to the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI) as its President from
October 2005 to June 2008.
Leadership in Industry Associations
A.K Azad's leadership extends beyond corporate boardrooms.
He served as the President of the Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI) for
two consecutive terms, advocating for policies that promote industrial growth
and enhance competitiveness. His tenure at BCI underscored his commitment to
representing the interests of the business community and collaborating with
stakeholders to address industry challenges.
Pioneering Role in RMG Sector
One of Azad's significant contributions lies in revitalizing
Bangladesh's RMG sector during the post-quota era. Anticipating challenges
posed by global trade liberalization, he spearheaded initiatives to enhance
productivity, quality, and market access for Bangladeshi garments. His
strategic foresight and proactive measures positioned Ha-Meem Group as a leader
in garment manufacturing, with exports exceeding two hundred million US dollars
annually. The group's apparel brands gained prominence in international
markets, particularly in Europe and America.
Entrepreneurship as a Solution to Unemployment
A.K. Azad believes in entrepreneurship as a catalyst for
socio-economic development. Beyond profitability, he views business as a means
to address unemployment and boost Bangladesh's GDP. His steadfast commitment to
industrial growth underscores his belief in business as a driver of national
prosperity and economic empowerment.
Diversified Contributions to Media and Education
Apart from his industrial ventures, A.K. Azad is the founder
of The Daily Samakal, a prominent daily newspaper in Bangladesh. His contributions
extend to the educational sector, where he has established schools and
supported educational initiatives nationwide. Upholding his father's legacy as
a social worker, Azad's philanthropic endeavors have enriched communities and
fostered educational advancement.
Social and Educational Initiatives
Beyond business, A.K Azad is deeply committed to social
welfare and education. He established educational institutions like Nurul Islam
Joiner High School and Alhaj M.A. Aziz Primary School in Faridpur, honoring his
father's legacy of promoting education. Azad's philanthropic endeavors include
providing scholarships and support to students and contributing to
socio-cultural organizations that enrich community life.
Recognition and Legacy
A.K Azad's contributions to Bangladesh's economic growth
have earned him widespread recognition. He has been honored as a Commercially
Important Person (CIP) by the Government of Bangladesh multiple times in
acknowledgment of his significant role in the country's industrialization. His
leadership, integrity, and dedication to sustainable development serve as a
beacon of inspiration for future generations of entrepreneurs and
industrialists in Bangladesh.
Personal Life and Family
In his personal life, A.K Azad prioritizes family values and
community engagement. His children, following in his footsteps, are
well-educated and actively involved in various professional endeavors. Azad's
ability to balance personal and professional commitments reflects his holistic
approach to life and leadership.
Conclusion
A.K Azad's journey from a determined young entrepreneur to a
respected industrialist and community leader epitomizes resilience, vision, and
dedication. His pioneering efforts in business, coupled with his philanthropic
initiatives and leadership in industry associations, have left an enduring
impact on Bangladesh's economic landscape. As he continues to steer Ha-Meem
Group towards greater heights, A.K Azad remains committed to fostering
sustainable development and creating opportunities for future generations in
Bangladesh and beyond.
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