Azeem Talib Discusses PEL’s Vision and Global Reach
Pak Elektron Limited (PEL) has been a cornerstone of Pakistan’s engineering and manufacturing landscape since 1956 and few people embody this journey better than Azeem Talib, Senior Regional Head South Power Division, Pak Elektron Limited. In an exclusive interview with Engineering Post, he shared insights into his professional journey, PEL’s business philosophy, export vision, and advice for young engineers aspiring to build lasting careers in Pakistan.
Having joined PEL in 2004, Azeem Talib, began his career as a trainee engineer and steadily rose through the ranks. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering with specialization in Power from UET Lahore, and an MBA in Marketing and Management. Reflecting on his journey, he said, “PEL provides an environment where learning, ethics, and long-term thinking were always prioritized. Beginning my professional journey with one of Pakistan’s notable large-scale enterprises and rising through the ranks has allowed me to truly internalize the very DNA of this organization.”
Speaking about PEL’s identity, Azeem Talib highlighted that the company operates in two major segments: power and appliances. The power division focuses on manufacturing power transformers, distribution transformers, low voltage and high voltage switchgear and energy meters, while the appliances division assembles and distributes products such as refrigerators, air conditioners, deep freezers, washing machines, LEDs, water dispensers, and microwave ovens. “PEL is not just a manufacturer; it is a complete solutions provider that has been serving Pakistan for seven decades,” he noted. With a workforce of more than 7,000 employees, PEL continues to play a vital role in the country’s industrial ecosystem.
Ethics, brand equity, and long-term credibility remain central to PEL’s business strategy. According to Azeem Talib, “Ethics and morality are the most important parts of business for PEL. Our brand equity has been built over decades, and we will not pursue any short-term business objectives that compromise our brand value and over-arching organizational ethos.” He emphasized that this principled approach has enabled PEL to sustain trust among customers, partners, and stakeholders.
Discussing sustainability and future growth, Azeem Talib, Senior Regional Head South Power Division, Pak Elektron Limited stressed the importance of diversification. “Diversification is extremely important for a sustainable future. Many businesses in Pakistan have closed down simply because they failed to diversify and explore new markets,” he said. PEL’s presence in both the appliances and power sectors provides resilience against external volatility, uncertainty and changing consumer trends.
Exports have been a defining feature of PEL since its inception. The company’s plant was set up as an export-based facility from day one. “Bangladesh, the Middle East, Africa, and other developing markets have been our customers for a long time. Today, we have around 40 active export destinations, including the United States and European Union,” he said, underscoring PEL’s expansive global footprint.
Offering advice to future engineers, Azeem Talib, candidly spoke about the challenges facing the younger generation. “There are two main requirements for success: skillset and mindset. The current generation has the skillset, but often lacks the right mindset for growth,” he observed. He cautioned against frequent job switching for short-term gains and unrealistic expectations about working abroad, adding, “Many leave Pakistan only to realize later that the realities abroad are much harsher. Along with developing skills, young professionals must work on building patience, resilience, and the right mindset for long-term growth.”
