IMPRINTS DIWALI EDITION
VOLUME 2 ISSUE 2
FOREWORD Dear Alumnus, It gives us immense joy to bring to you the Imprints for September-October, 2013. We hope you find it interesting. We also welcome you to write for us, articles for the forthcoming November-December, 2013 festive issue of Imprints. The atmosphere on the campus these past two months has been buzzing with numerous activities and a new found splendour of vibrance. This issue of Imprints brings to you several exciting events organised by several committees on campus. Hitting it off with Anveshan where alumni of the Batch of 2013 visited the campus; graced the occasion with their valuable inputs, thereby removing all the roadblocks in the minds of the Batch of 2015. What began as a competition turned out to be a very successful event as SIMSR witnessed awe-inspiring performances by differently-able people, who not only survived their impediments but also overcame it with conviction in EVENTASTIC. Moving onto Confluence, the annual panel discussion of institute’s alumni, was held on Oct 5, 2013. The theme for the discussion this year was Path Dependence, based on a Harvard Business Review article “How will you measure your life” by Clayton Christensen. More details about it inside. The girls, dressed in ghagra-cholis and guys adorned in crisp bright kurtas, what event am I talking about? Well it’s where rains dampened the day but not the spirits of the folks present at the Dandiya Dhamaal night. SIMSR organised Intercollegiate Spriha, the best inter-college Summer Internship Award was judged by industry stalwarts and SIMSR Alumni from prominent organizations. Who had
2
FOREWORD the best summer internship project, where did they work and what did they win? all unlocked inside. Pangea, exalted as the biggest and most interactive corporate event at SIMSR, Pangea saw magnates from different industries across varied sectors. There is also a section on Alumnus of the Month and this time it is none other than Mr Raman Ramamurthy who shares the career path trodden by him, the jobs and experiences, the satisfaction and dissatisfaction of working in corporate, his perception about the brand SIMSR. Not to miss the special Teacher’s Day Celebration at the SIMSR campus and also bringing to you the Achievements section of Imprints showcasing the achievements of SIMSR students at the inter-collegiate level. On behalf of SIMSR ALCOM team we wish our ALUMNI and their families a very Happy Diwali and a prosperous New Year. Happy Reading Regards, Radha Iyer Chairperson, Alumni Committee SIMSR Mumbai
3
ANVESHAN It was the morning of 7th Sept’ 13 that the corridors of SIMSR relived their memories. Anveshan was successfully conducted by the KJ SIMSR Alumni Committee. With many students turning up for the event and with about 30 alumni who had enthusiastically participated and come to the campus. Anveshan is an annual event that bestows upon the students, of the first year batch, the opportunity to have a healthy interaction with the freshly passed out alumni of the college who had pursued various specializations, and more importantly are experiencing the industry today, hands on. The canteen bliss, the old walls and most importantly the past was akin to the present. The graduating seniors felt like first year students again as they met their seniors and the first year students saw what the future was like. Eminent alumni from Daimler AG, Credit Suisse, STCI, HSBC, Morgan Stanley and the like spared their valuable time to enlighten students about how their industry experience made a difference to their lives. 4
The K J SIMSR Alumni Committee was successful in bringing back some of its brightest alumni to the gates of SIMSR again who recounted their past and their present to give the eager batch of 2013- 2015 a brief insight as to how life would change post SIMSR. Notably, the conversation dwelled on how the fresh batch should go about making choices for specializations, the nuances of facing the challenge for summer internship and finally carving the appropriate way towards the final placements situation. They shared everything from informative links for academics, experiences from interviews and tips to see through the placement process. The invited guests were from the recently passed out batches and thus, proved to be best in conveying the intricacies of transition from student to the corporate life that many a first year student dream of right now. The gleeful morning ended with a farewell to a day well spent with memories relived and more importantly, strengthening the bond of SIMSR and its alumni.
5
EVENTASTIC An event that initially started off as a competition became a matter of responsibility and pride for the winners to execute it from scratch and make it happen for ‘real’ 20 days after the competition. The students having been exposed to numerous accounts of entrepreneurs and philanthropists overcoming barriers to achieve success in their field, believe that the same applies to the differently abled members of Indian society and raising awareness about the same was at the forefront of their mission. Out of the 2,19,06,789 differently abled individuals across India, a mere 38% of them are employed by various institutions. It was these beautifully talented people who brought the stage alive with their performances that included singing the National Anthem (by the hearing impaired using sign language), dance performance by NASEOH students, Folk dance by Sunil Parihar(a polio victim), Indias Got Talent fame - Sunil Gujara(Hearing and Speech impaired), Sound of Silence (Deaf and Dumb), Communityn outreach NGO from MATUNGA (hearing and speech Impaired), Dance performance on wheelchairs by the differently abled employees and by Black (a group of visually impaired professional singers). These students made us realize that the hardest thing to overcome is not a physical disability but the mental condition which it induces. The world we live in has a way of taking a man, pretty much, at his own rating. If he permits his loss to make him embarrassed and apologetic, he will draw embarrassment from others. But if he gains his own respect, the respect of those around him comes easily. Thus making this event a great success. 6
CONFLUENCE The flowing together of two streams, an act of gathering, merging or conflux; the true meaning of the term Confluence was brought alive at this year’s event. Confluence- 2013, the annual panel discussion of institute’s alumni, was organized on Oct 5, 2013. SIMSR has a 3 decade long enriching experience with the industry and the event was just another way to reconnect with the alumni in a better way. Encouraging a healthy interaction between the alumni and the students is imperative and ensures that the students grow holistically by imparting real life knowledge. The theme for the discussion this year was Path Dependence, based on a Harvard Business Review article “How will you measure your life” by Clayton Christensen. The event was graced by some of the most esteemed and distinguished alumni including Mr. Anuj Bhargava (CEO, AB Associates) , Mr. Satish Menon (Director-Marketing, Bristol Nyers Squidb), Mr. Anand Ramaswamy (Head-DSMG, ICICI Bank) , Mr. Rahul Desai (Group Head, M&A, Risk Management, Investor Relations GTL Ltd and GTL Infrastructure Ltd), Mr. Arindam Das (Business Head, Capital First Ltd.) The beginning of the event was marked by reciting the Campus prayer and lightning the lamps, seeking the blessings of Saraswati. The welcome note was delivered by our Director, Dr. Satish Ailawadi, wherein he emphasized the importance of good alumni relationships in 7
a business school and how it helps the institution grow and be more competent. He urged the alumni for the same and requested them to strengthen their bond with their alma mater. The keynote speaker Mr. Anuj Bhargava shared his life experiences with the students. He stressed upon learning the basics and working hard to achieve goals. He urged the students to be open to learning and strive for a 360 degree development. The discussion kick started with the alumni discussing the issue at hand. Measuring life is a subjective thing. Depending on the person, it might be measured in terms of money, family, education etc. The deliberation unanimously emphasized upon being humble and maintaining good relationships at work and home. They also talked about how making mistakes is the only way to learn. After almost an hour of sharing stories, thoughts and opinions, the discussion ended on a common note that the yardstick of measuring success is subjective. Life is understood only the hind sight. One should take life as it comes and not be afraid of making choices. Building competencies, working hard and being able to change are vital for success. Not just money but the impact one makes on other people lives is very important while measuring life. This year’s confluence gave the students an insight about some of the most important but easily neglected aspects of one’s life. All the humor, the anecdotes, the discussions and the thoughts of the panel melted in one big pot of learning for the students and gave them an enriching experience. 8
DANDIYA DHAMAAL Rains dampened the day but not the spirits of the folks at this do. DANDIYA DHAMAAL, organized by the SAF Committee, saw students turning up in their best traditional attire. Girls were dressed in ghagracholis of the brightest shades of pink, red and orange and the guys dressed in crisp bright kurtas.
The event started around 6:30pm and then there was no stopping of the garba gangs. Given the popularity of remixes and fusion music it was interesting to see traditional tunes blend in with modern dance steps. Also, the best dancers and the best dressed were given prizes. To keep the energy levels flowing, lip-smacking snacks like sandwiches, gola and nariyal paani were also served. For students, who are here from different corners of the country, the event evoked nostalgic feelings as they remember the festivities back home.
9
SPRIHA INTERCOLLEGIATE 2013 Spriha is an annual intra-college competition that started off as a flagship event of K.J. Somaiya Institute of Management Studies and Research to test the learning of the students during their summer internships. However, this year Spriha took a momentous leap ahead. The second year students, after gaining experience by interning at various renowned organizations, were all geared up to take up this challenge of winning the ‘Best Summer Project’ award on an intercollege level. After clearing various rounds of internal screenings and rigorous eliminations, seven best candidates from various colleges across Mumbai and Pune were selected for the final battle of winning Spriha under the watchful eyes of another elite panel of judges for the finale. The judges for the finale were: Mr.P.K.Sabherwal- B.E. (Hons.) (Mech); Post Graduation in Business Management; Post Graduation in Industrial Management, Senior Management Programme (IIM-A); Top Management Programme (IIM-A) and is also a visiting faculty in the field of Operations Management. Mr. Rajiv Wadhwa- Brand Services Partner with Leo Burnett. A Post Graduate in Marketing and has handled more than 22 brands across 13 categories. CA Sameer Karnik- Fellow member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and has been practicing in Mumbai from 1989 with diversified clientele across various industries. Consultant to various 10
multinationals in banking and liquor industry and an associate member of various societies like chamber of tax consultants, All India federation of tax consultants, etc. Benaifer Karkaria- Senior Process Manager with eClerx's Knowledge Management Core (KM Core). Commerce graduate from Narsee Monjee College of Commerce & Economics. She was an MMS student with SIMSR's 2007-2009 batch. The Finale was nothing short of spectacular with all the finalists coming out with all guns blazing and braving the penetrative questions posed by the judges. The winners left not only with accolades and praises but also took back home many attractive prizes. First prize of Rs 20,000 was won by Varun Punjabi from K.J.Somaiya Institute of Management Studies and Research and second prize of Rs 10,000 was awarded to Manasawi from Welingkar. Other finalists were: Ankit Jain - SIIB, Pune; Karan Rangrej –JBIMS; Rohini U - SIMS Pune; Arpita Narangikar – IES; Sheba – RBS. The event was sponsored by The Wounded Tiger, India’s interactive digital magazine and StupidSid, an education portal.
first
In a nutshell, the SPRIHA 2013 torch was handed over to the juniors with a flame burning with an unmatched ferocity in the hope of carrying it forward with similar exuberance in the years to come. 11
PANGEA 19th October 2013 witnessed another successful annual business conference, PANGEA 2013 in SIMSR. Taking forward the institute’s promise to bring education and corporate industry together to enrich our workforce with better skilled managers, this flagship event is organised by International Business Society (IBS) in SIMSR every year where various industry experts get together on a single platform and address the students of SIMSR. The event began as scheduled at 10:30 am with lamp lightening ceremony by our honourable director Dr. Satish Ailawadi and introductory addresses by him and Prof. C. P. Joshi Area Chairperson General Management and course coordinator International Business in Red Audi of the institute. The industry fraternity like Mr. Sunil Bahl from Sara Hong Kong Ltd, Mr. Rohit Pandya (General Manager ) from ECGC , Mr. Rishikesh Joshi (Head Corporate Services ) at L&T Infotech and Mr. Somashekhar (VP, Treasury and Forex Managment) from AXIS Bank graced the occasion. They spoke on various interesting topics like third country trading, risk mitigator, challenges for entering new markets and latest developments in treasury and forex management. Students interacted with the industry panellists and discussed various other topics in a parallel question and answer session. Finally the day closed with the vote of thanks given by Prof C. P. Joshi’s. Pangea 2013 was managed and organised by International Business Society (IBS).
12
ALUMNUS OF THE MONTH QUESTIONNAIRE FILLED BY MR. RAMAN RAMAMURTHY 1
What has your career path been like so far, beginning, from your first job till the present one?
An astute & result oriented professional with 24 years of extensive techno-commercial experience in profit centre operations, sales, marketing, business development & relationship Management with profit accountability. Attained proficiency in Business Development & Channel activities by: -
-
Breaking new avenues & driving sales growth. Proactively conducting opportunity analysis by keeping abreast of market trends & competitor moves to achieve market-share metrics Ensured successful ramp up of business assignments; while working in coordination with clients and ensuring effective service deliverables
All these experiences led me to be a successful management consultant solely focused on New Business start-up consulting, Sales & Marketing recruitment and delivering effective corporate training programmes through few established training companies as a free-lancer. (Visit Website: www.rambunaconsultants.com)
2
What jobs and experiences have led you to your present position?
As a milestone achievement Developing and managing a dedicated INR 155 Crores ‘Kores-Hewlett Packard’ Printer Consumables channel network from the scratch during the career-span 1998-2003 - to enhance market reach and define marketing strategies to build customer preference and drive volumes. This assignment led to significant recognition for me in my highly 13
competitive industry – IT Hardware Sales/ Distribution strategy and Channel development. 3
What are the important personal satisfactions dissatisfaction's connected with your occupation?
and
SatisfactionI am involved in developing career opportunities for the capable and bright job applicants. As a new business start-up consultant, it is challenging to support new business initiatives of the existing and new client companies. Dis-satisfactionNew opportunities not yet tapped by me due to lack of funds at the client level. Delays and procrastination at Indian government level. 4
Which part of this job do you personally find most satisfying and most challenging?
New business development and Career counselling at Mid-senior levels while recruiting for niche segments I am specialised in. 5
What do you like and dislike about working in this industry?
What I like – Wide scope and potential available for my consulting business due to -
demographic dividend ( 70% of Indian population below 35 yrs age), India being in growth phase coupled with MNC/ FDI intervention Ample opportunity in skill development and corporate training
What I dislike – -
There are no entry barriers in recruitment industry leading crowding the panel of recruitment agencies – this lacuna needs to be filled to develop better recruitment methods. As far as new business start-up consulting is concerned, greater level of honesty and professional ethics is solicited.
14
6
What were the key factors that led to your career advancement?
Only hard-work coupled with sustained career interest and passion helps me to be a successful management consultant. 7
Does your work relate to any experiences or studies you had in college?
Yes, my work is primarily based on - marketing strategy and business development – in particular, via - New business start-up consulting, strategic recruitment practices in Sales & Marketing and delivering composite as well as relevant training methods to develop manpower. In short, my effort is to ‘build-recruit-train’ businesses keeping existing market forces and opportunities in mind. The foundation to be a consultant in my mind was established through academic study in business management; strengthened through practical experiences in niche segments I specialize in. 8. Your message to the students. Develop sustained passion for whatever you do and work hard to excel.
9. Your Perception about SIMSR and also any Suggestions you could sight for our college. SIMSR has grown in strength through continuous efforts to excel in its efforts to provide the best management education. More intervention by way of developmental programs, seminars and teachings from outsiders or visiting faculty should be encouraged to benefit the students. The effort should be to be a part of the mainstream and not cocoon itself into academics alone.
15
TEACHER’S DAY CELEBRATION Organized by Staff Welfare Committee On 5th September, 2013
‘A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, touches a heart, and shapes the future.’ Teacher’s Day was organized in K J Somaiya Institute Of Management Studies and Research Centre, Mumbai on 5th of September 2013.This was the first time that such an event was organised in the college. It was made possible by the efforts of Staff Welfare Committee, who believed in the auspiciousness of the occasion and hence decided to make the day memorable for them. . The event was put together as a joint effort of Dr SivaKumar, chairperson of Staff Welfare Committee and Mrs Neha Sawant, Registrar, SIMSR. The day began with welcoming of the teachers by the members of junior council. As a token of appreciation for the efforts that they put in everyday, they were presented with flowers. Refreshments were also arranged for. The stage was set for a morning filled with fun and enjoyment for the teachers. Inspiring words of director sir, Dr Satish Ailawadi marked the beginning of the event and it was followed by his magical poetry that won all hearts. After this, the teachers set the stage on fire by showing a side that was hidden from all. They sang, they danced, and they played Antakshari. The day would not have been the same without the efforts of Dr Reena Mehta who played the perfect host of Antakshari. The junior council members also performed on stage as a token of their respect for the teachers. The event was followed by lunch. Overall, it was an absolute success and the teachers, the administrative team and each and every member present there enjoyed it to the very core. 16
SIMSR STUDENTS ACHIVEMENTS EYE DEA - The National B Plan Competition – organized by SIMSR Position: 1st Participants:
Anurag Yelkur (PGDM 2013-15) Roshan Singh nagi (PGDM 2012-14) Ishaan Shrivastava (PGDM 2013-15)
Position: 3rd Participants:
Vasudha Sharma (PGDM 2013-15) Pavanshu Aggarwal (PGDM 2013-15)
Swadesh4U at IIM- Ahmedabad Position: 1st Participants: Tavishi Agrawal, Eva Sharma, Pooja Agrawal (PGDM 2012-14) Quiz on the Beach by ATHARAVA- TAPMI Manipal Position: 2nd Participants: Trimurti Gupta (PGDM-IB 2013-15) and Gaurav Dutta (PGDM 201315)
International DELL Empowering Women Challenge '13 Position: The team has fought its way into the top 60 teams among 1400 entries from 46+ countries Participant: Project Kruti of EnactUs Somaiya Social Cell
Aristos Summer Internship Contest, at NILLM CMS Position: 1st Participant: Harsimran Anand (PGDM 2012-2014) 17
ALCOM MEMBERS TANVI SAINA RIMA AAYUSH