Gunawan Jusuf: President and CEO of the Sugar Group Companies
Gunawan Jusuf is the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Sugar Group Companies, a leading conglomerate headquartered in Indonesia. The Sugar Group Companies focus on growing and refining sugar for commercial sale, with plantations primarily located in the Lampung Province of Indonesia. His expertise has propelled various Indonesian products to national and international success. Under his leadership, the company operates ten additional offices throughout Indonesia, enhancing its reach and efficiency.
Driven Toward Success
Throughout Gunawan's extensive career in the Indonesian farming and manufacturing industries, he has demonstrated a remarkable ability to lead multiple teams to simultaneous success. As the CEO and President of the Sugar Group Companies, he has fostered a collaborative environment among numerous plants and offices. This synergy has translated into significant profits and unparalleled success for the company. His leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills, combined with his keen business acumen, have consistently driven the Sugar Group Companies to the forefront of the industry.
Jusuf and the Sugar Group Companies Today
Today, the Sugar Group Companies continue to thrive under his leadership. Jusuf has been pivotal in achieving profit and goals that were once deemed unattainable. One of his most significant accomplishments is the rapid and extensive growth of Gulaku, a premium refined sugar product that has become one of Indonesia's most recognizable consumer brands.
Under his guidance, the Sugar Group Companies oversee every aspect of production, from growing and refining to packaging, marketing, and distribution. This comprehensive control ensures the company's operations run smoothly and efficiently. In addition to Gulaku, the Sugar Group Companies also market JJ Royal Coffee and other iconic Indonesian brands, further cementing their presence in the industry.
Author Jusuf
Gunawan Jusuf is also an author, having recently published a book titled "Blue Gold." This work highlights the critical importance of water as a resource for life on Earth and discusses the anticipated scarcity of water in Indonesia and globally. Drawing from his extensive career, he offers a unique perspective on the vital role of water in business and life. The book provides an in-depth discussion about the high value of water, informed by the operations of his numerous plantations and refineries, which heavily rely on water to grow sugar cane and produce quality products.
Additional Achievements
Gunawan's contributions extend beyond the business realm. He is a devout Catholic who generously donates to various Catholic churches. He has had the privilege of meeting with the late Pope John Paul II and the current Pope Francis.
The Terawatt Initiative and Renewable Energy
Jusuf is a founding member of the Terawatt Initiative, an organization committed to transforming the energy system for more sustainable, affordable, and reliable power. The initiative focuses on several goals, including rethinking leadership, reducing uncertainty, creating compelling narratives, empowering people to demand sustainable solutions, reworking regulations to lower energy costs, decreasing renewable power costs, and shifting financing towards sustainable energy systems. He and other industry leaders work tirelessly to overcome challenges and promote sustainable energy solutions.
In 2012, leveraging a byproduct of sugar production, Gunawan pioneered the creation of the world's cleanest ethanol. This ethanol, derived from molasses, received the highest verification rating from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
The Sugar Group Schools
Gunawan Jusuf also funds the Sugar Group Schools, an initiative started by his late mother and now managed by his sister, Purwati Lee. Founded in 2005, the organization provides free education to over 1,900 children of Sugar Group employees. The schools in rural areas offer a unique learning environment with air-conditioned, WiFi-enabled classrooms and bilingual programs. Students receive free uniforms, backpacks, shoes, and two daily meals and snacks, with top performers awarded full university scholarships. His support for the Sugar Group Schools demonstrates his commitment to improving the lives of future generations of Indonesians.
Looking Toward the Future
Jusuf's business and charitable endeavors are continually evolving. In the coming years, the Sugar Group Companies are expected to pursue more sustainable production policies, enhance local education options, and initiate other noble projects. As president and CEO of the Sugar Group Companies, he continues to lead the organization in its mission to remain a top producer, distributor, and marketer of sugar products from their headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Portfolio Website: https://gunawan-jusuf.com
