An engaging interaction with Mr. Imran Khan, Director of Operations at Black Tulip, provided our senior secondary students with meaningful insights into the workings of a contemporary family business. Conducted on February 17th, the student-led interview explored the dynamics of a company operating in the floral and horticulture industry, where quality and timing are critical.
A particularly inspiring aspect of the session was Mr. Khan’s reflection on the origins of the business. He shared how the seeds of Black Tulip were sown by the elders of his family, whose vision, principles, and forward-thinking approach laid the foundation for the company’s success. Their values—centered on integrity, quality, and perseverance—continue to guide and shape the organization’s operations today. He emphasized that the family’s unwavering support and collective wisdom have played a vital role in the company’s growth. Despite being at the helm of operations, Mr. Khan humbly acknowledged that he is still learning and evolving under the guidance of the founders and their senior staff.
The discussion highlighted Mr. Khan’s academic background in Agriculture and how domain knowledge, combined with the founders’ guidance, plays a crucial role in business decision-making. Students gained a clearer understanding of how theoretical learning can directly inform operational strategies in real-world settings.
A key focus of the exchange was supply chain efficiency and quality consistency. The speaker explained how structured systems, detailed labelling, and carefully designed processes help maintain standards despite flowers being inherently influenced by nature and climate conditions. This demonstrated the importance of precision and adaptability in operations management.
The session also carried a strong motivational message, emphasizing patience, long-term thinking, and resilience. Students left with a deeper appreciation of entrepreneurship, the strength of family-led enterprises, and valuable advice for navigating future professional and business pursuits.
