The idea of overcoming obstacles in your path is nothing daunting for a successful entrepreneur. They constantly battle against hurdles ranging from financial and operational challenges to personal ones. But there are a few who face even bigger struggles in their career journey – the fateful entrepreneurs or people who choose to build a business after their initial career plans did not work out. These individuals often have to navigate a steep learning curve, as they transition from a familiar field to the uncharted territory of entrepreneurship.
Sabeer Nelli, CEO of Tyler Petroleum Inc and Zil Money is one such individual who had to drastically pivot his career after his childhood dream of becoming a commercial pilot did not materialize. Nevertheless, Sabeer has managed to make his mark in industries ranging from oil and gas to retail and fintech over the course of the last 15 years and emerged as a key player in the US business landscape.
As individuals, we all have carefully curated plans about our future and what career to pursue. Sabeer always dreamt of becoming a commercial pilot and was focused on achieving his goal. However, a medical condition forced him to alter his path. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Sabeer acknowledges, “It was a watershed moment that, while difficult, pushed me to confront my reality and ultimately shaped who I am today. It opened my eyes to new avenues and fueled my determination to make something of myself.”
Instead of lamenting his unrealized goal, Sabeer quickly shifted his focus to new opportunities. Instead of losing hope, he was ready to reinvent and carve out a new path for himself. Business was a field that had always captivated him as a child, and he decided to explore the entrepreneurial world. The first step to succeeding in this new venture was to educate himself and build connections. As such, he enrolled at the University of Texas at Tyler and pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Business. With a thirst for learning and a determination to succeed, Sabeer began to lay the foundation for his future endeavors at this institution.
Sabeer’s foray into the oil and gas sector happened in the mid 2000s with the establishment of Tyler Petroleum Inc. The venture, which was part of the fueling station/convenience store industry, was created with the goal of providing fuel, food and supplies to drivers on the go. Sabeer recognized a gap in the market for reliable service and quality products, aiming to create a customer-centric experience. He focused on ensuring that each location offered not just fuel, but also a range of convenience items and food options, catering to the needs of busy travelers. This commitment to quality and service set Tyler Petroleum apart in a competitive landscape, allowing the company to quickly gain traction.
Sabeer says that his biggest challenge during the initial development phase of Tyler Petroleum was adopting a CEO mindset. “As a pilot, my responsibilities were clearly defined but being a CEO was entirely different. I had to think strategically, make tough decisions, handle around 200 employees and dive into financial management, marketing strategies, and customer service” – Sabeer says.
Initially, he found it difficult to balance these responsibilities while trying to establish the company’s identity. However, through persistence and a commitment to learning, Sabeer embraced the CEO role. He sought guidance from mentors, invested time in professional development, and learned to trust his instincts. This transformation was crucial for the growth of Tyler Petroleum, which has become one of the fastest growing private companies in the US. Apart from Tyler, Sabeer also has entered the fintech industry with Zil Money – a B2B payment platform that also has seen considerable growth after its launch in 2018.
Sabeer Nelli’s journey from an aspiring pilot to a successful entrepreneur is a source of inspiration to all who were once forced to give up on their dreams. He reflects “If my experience has taught me anything, it is that professionals always have to entertain the idea of an alternate career in case things don’t work out. While the loss of my aviation career was a great challenge, it became a catalyst for my journey as an entrepreneur.” Sabeer’s story serves as a reminder that career paths can change, and it’s crucial to remain open to new possibilities.
