Portfolio

Professional Overview

Wasim Zakria is a distinguished professional with over three decade of expertise in international trade, footwear export management, and strategic industry development. Holding a Master’s in Public Administration, he has made substantial contributions to Pakistan’s footwear industry, promoting international standards, enhancing competitiveness, and mentoring professionals who now occupy senior industry roles.

Professional Overview

Footlib & InterConnect Global (Pvt) Ltd
Owner and CEO​

  • Established and expanded Footlib into one of Pakistan’s largest footwear exporters.
  • Developed comprehensive training programs leading to significant employee career growth.
  • Initiated and managed modernization initiatives aligning production practices with global quality standards.
  • Led and participated in international delegations, advocating for Pakistan’s footwear sector globally.

Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers Association
Chairman​

  • Twice elected Chairman, significantly influencing policy development to support footwear manufacturers.
  • Enhanced cooperation with governmental bodies to advance industry growth and export capacity.
  • Successfully organized influential national and international conferences elevating industry visibility and reputation.

European Union (Footwear and Leather Sector)
Consultant and Trainer​

  • Provided consultancy services and extensive training in market entry strategies, quality compliance, and operational efficiency.
  • Conducted impactful training programs in Thailand and Europe, greatly enhancing productivity and competitiveness among manufacturers.

Multinational Corporations
Senior Management Roles​

  • Provided consultancy services and extensive training in market entry strategies, quality compliance, and operational efficiency.
  • Conducted impactful training programs in Thailand and Europe, greatly enhancing productivity and competitiveness among manufacturers.

Leadership & Industry Memberships

  • Active Member of the Government Export Development Fund.
  • Two-term Chairman of the Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers Association.
  • Represented Pakistan’s footwear industry on numerous international delegations, securing key partnerships and export visibility.

Export & Trade Expertise

Wasim Zakria has substantial hands-on experience spanning over 40 years across major international markets including Europe, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, South America, and Canada. Currently, his efforts are directed towards empowering SMEs and startups within Pakistan’s footwear sector to successfully expand into global markets through targeted support in:

 

  • Product Range Development
  • Competitive Product Costing
  • Participation in International Exhibitions
  • Strategic Customer Introductions
  • Specialized Sample Development
  • Production Assistance & Quality Assurance
  • Efficient Export Documentation & Banking Processes
  • Streamlined Shipping & Customs Procedures
  • Management of Export Duty Drawbacks

Current Initiatives

Wasim Zakria is leading an innovative Export Cluster initiative comprising select footwear manufacturers aimed at collectively enhancing their international market presence. This collaborative approach is designed to address key operational challenges, improve market penetration, and create sustainable export growth opportunities for Pakistani businesses.

For collaboration opportunities and further discussions, contact Wasim Zakria via InterConnect Global (Pvt) Ltd.