A Journey from Shoemaking Roots to Revolutionizing Fulfillment | Arsen Janikyan
Today, we're thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with a seasoned professional, a true stalwart in the world of operations, whose journey from a family of shoemakers to a thriving career operator spans 23 years. Join us as we delve into the remarkable story of Arsen Janikyan, the driving force behind OpsEngine, a 3PL fulfillment center catering to small businesses with 500+ monthly orders.
In this insightful interview, discover the secrets of OpsEngine's success, their unique approach to business, plans for growth, and invaluable tips for startups navigating the challenging entrepreneurial landscape. Whether you're an industry enthusiast, a business owner, or an aspiring entrepreneur, this article offers a treasure trove of wisdom and practical insights. Get ready to be inspired and informed on the fascinating intersection of experience, innovation, and the art of successful operations.
Early Life and Educational Background
Career operator of 23 years, but also grew up in a family of shoemakers. I've been in operations my entire life, essentially. I have a Bachelor's degree in Business Management and Finance from Woodbury University and Master's Degree in Supply Chain and Marketing from the University of North Carolina Chapel-Hill.
Career Journey of Arsen Janikyan
Tell us about the business and its presence in the target market?
OpsEngine is a 3PL fulfillment center focusing on small businesses with 500+ monthly orders. We are a fulfillment center for DTC and omni-channel brands looking for strong operational workflows and processes. OpsEngine prides itself on the robust experience and operational pillars it's founded on based on its founder's experience.
What are some of the growth and expansion plans you have in your pipeline?
Our humble beginnings were small but mighty. We quickly gained tracking soon after launch due to our experience. Our primary source of business has been from our current clients. Blessed with such a growth opportunity, we are ramping up towards moving from our 8,000 SF facility to 25,000 SF in mid-2024 as we continue to onboard brands within our operational wheelhouse.
OpsEngine's Business Overview
How has the year been for your company?
Excellent! Despite the downward trend of the overall economy, the fulfillment ethos has treated us well. The result of your work highly depends on the quality of your input. We've focused very heavily on providing a brand-centric experience, one that feels no different than having your own warehouse.
What does your business offer as per the current competitive market?
We have developed and embraced a model called "Your Operations Department." Of course, operations, in general, consist of many categories, including but not limited to retail operations, legal affairs management, information technology, and so on. Our focus is the warehouse component of a brand's operational needs in a way that's super brand-centric. Our warehouse is the brand's warehouse mentality. We infuse ourselves with the brand and take every opportunity and challenge seriously as if it were our own. Our level of self-accountability and proactive approach is second to none, providing brands with the peace of mind that we do the right thing because doing what's hard and what's right are typically the same.
What measures do you think employees and organizations can take to build effective teamwork and unity?
This is a loaded question and deserves an entire book's worth of content. In a high-level summary, I would say a bi-directional relationship that starts with the hiring process. The leader of the organization and hiring manager needs to set the right expectations based on the culture they are trying to accomplish. One wrong hire can impact the entire culture, and I've seen it happen in the past. Leaders need to nurture their employees, spend time, and understand what makes the employee want to come to work and not have to. We spend more time at work than we do awake at home. It's important to create a welcoming, safe, and productive workplace environment that provides growth opportunities personally and professionally.
OpsEngine's Approach to Research & Innovation
Tell us about the company’s focus and investment in research and innovation?
We are always looking for improvement opportunities through industry surveys and trade shows. The reason OpsEngine (intentionally named as operations engine) exists is due to the fact that most 3PLs do 20% of the work to accomplish 80% of the results, leaving 20% of the results on the table. Most brands, if not all, need the last 20%, which is not the most profitable workload for a 3PL but is necessary to retain the brand's relationship. Unfortunately, in most cases, this isn't happening, which results in most brands leaving their fulfillment center for another one every 12-18 months on average. Due to this research, we've infused our scalable brand-centric approach in the industry using high-end technology (warehouse management system) and hardware to exceed brand expectations.
Advice for Startups
Start-ups are not for the faint of heart. It takes persistence, grinding, and relentless pursuit of goals because there is typically a finite amount of time and/or money, especially money. Once you run out of money, you have to shut down your doors. My advice is to start small and build up. Be nimble and ready to adjust approaches for a better conversion. Don't copy someone else's ways of doing things because no two handwritings are ever the same. Be true to your roots and what you can offer, whether it's a product or service. And ensure you are looking at solving the challenges from your customer's perspective, not your own.
As we conclude this enlightening journey through the world of operations with Arsen Janikyan, we invite you to connect with Arsen Janikyan on LinkedIn for more updates and insights. Follow their professional journey and stay informed about the latest in the fulfillment industry. To delve deeper into the innovative solutions offered by OpsEngine, visit their website at OpsEngine Website. There, you can explore the intricacies of their "Your Operations Department" model and discover how they redefine brand-centric fulfillment. Don't miss the opportunity to engage with Arsen Janikyan and OpsEngine, and witness firsthand the dedication to excellence that has shaped their impressive career and the success of their business. Connect, engage, and explore the limitless possibilities that lie within the world of operations!
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