Meet the PGP-BL Class of 2025: Raghul Palaniswamy, IIM Kozhikode by: Jeff Schmitt on January 07, 2025 | 205 Views January 7, 2025 Copy Link Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Email Share on LinkedIn Share on WhatsApp Share on Reddit Raghul Palaniswamy Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode “Accomplished program and risk management professional, expert in driving strategic initiatives and enterprise-wide transformations.” Hometown: Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu Fun Fact About Yourself: I’m a Karate Black Belt II Dan who clinched 1st place in Tamil Nadu State Level Kumite in 2011 and 2014, and 2nd place at the All-India Karate Tournament in 2013. Undergraduate School and Major: Sri Eshwar College of Engineering, Coimbatore. Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering Most Recent Employer and Job Title: KPMG, Consultant – Program and Project Management Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of IIM Kozhikode’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? The decisive factor in choosing IIM Kozhikode’s MBA program was its exceptional focus on strategic leadership and governance, tailored for a uniquely diverse and intimate batch of around 60 students. This small but varied cohort brings a rich mosaic of perspectives, greatly enriching discussions and learning experiences. Each member contributes distinct insights and backgrounds, which enhances the learning environment and fosters a comprehensive understanding of global business practices. The rigorous curriculum, combined with this dynamic group, provides deep insights into both theoretical frameworks and practical applications of strategy and governance. Such a setting is indispensable for developing the sophisticated strategic thinking and governance acumen necessary for high-level managerial roles, especially in management consulting where diversity of thought drives innovation and strategic success. What has been your favorite course or extracurricular activity at IIM Kozhikode? What has been the most important lesson that you have learned from it? My favorite courses at IIM Kozhikode have been Marketing Management, taught by Prof. Sridhar Guda, and Macro Economics, led by Prof. Rudra Sensarma. These courses have provided me with a profound understanding of both micro and macro-level business dynamics. Marketing Management deepened my insights into consumer behavior and strategic brand management, underscoring the importance of customer-centric strategies in creating value. Conversely, Macro Economics broadened my perspective on how global economic environments influence business strategies and highlighted the critical role of economic indicators in shaping market opportunities. The most important lesson I have learned from these courses is the interconnectedness between market-driven strategies and economic frameworks. Effective marketing strategies are not only about understanding consumer needs, but also about aligning with broader economic conditions to seize timely opportunities. This integrated approach, reinforced by Prof. Rudra’s and Prof. Sridhar’s expert teachings, has equipped me with the skills to craft adaptable strategies that anticipate and leverage economic trends, ensuring sustainable business growth. Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: One of my most significant accomplishments in my career thus far has been the spearheading of a high-profile, multimillion-dollar project at Emerson Automation Solutions, which involved strategic oversight of large-scale industrial projects like the AlZour Refinery and Arctic LNG. These projects were valued at over $42 million dollars and were pivotal in driving organizational savings of $7 million dollars through optimized risk and change management strategies. Additionally, I earned my PMP certification at 24, RMP at 25, and PgMP at 26, placing me among the youngest globally to hold these credentials. I also completed the Strategic Management certification from Wharton Business School in just 4 months, significantly faster than the standard 6-month track. Furthermore, I became the youngest Kaizen facilitator in my organization, showcasing my leadership in continuous improvement initiatives. These milestones not only highlight my expertise in strategic program management, but also underscore my ability to achieve exceptional educational and professional milestones ahead of typical timelines. Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far: My most significant accomplishment has been successfully earning the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification from KPMG during my studies. This achievement is particularly noteworthy, as it involved rigorous training in quality management and process improvement methodologies alongside my regular MBA coursework. The certification process required a deep understanding of data-driven approaches to eliminate defects and improve processes in any business environment. Completing this certification not only enhanced my analytical skills, but also enabled me to apply these principles in various academic projects, substantially improving operational efficiencies in simulated environments. This milestone is a testament to my commitment to excellence and my ability to manage demanding academic and professional development tasks simultaneously. What has been your most memorable experience at IIM Kozhikode? Why was it so special? My most memorable experience has been in Professor Rudra Sensarma’s class. During a project on WPI (Wholesale Price Index) and CPI (Consumer Price Index) data analysis, I received an email from Professor Rudra that truly stood out. He praised my work, mentioning that the last time a student achieved something similar was in 2004, and that student went on to become the CEO of Rivigo, one of India’s largest tech-enabled trucking companies. This comparison was not only a huge honor but also a motivating reminder of the potential impact of the work we do at IIMK. This experience was special because it connected my current efforts to a legacy of success, and it filled me with a sense of responsibility and inspiration to strive for similar achievements in my own career. It reinforced the value of dedication and innovation, and the profound influence that thoughtful mentorship and academic challenges can have on shaping one’s future. What led you to pursue an MBA at this point and what do you hope to do after graduation? Pursuing an MBA at this point in my life is deeply rooted in both personal and professional motivations. As the first graduate in my family, I carry the weight of my family’s dreams and aspirations. Growing up, I watched my parents work tirelessly, often sacrificing their own dreams to ensure that I had the opportunities they never had. Their unwavering support and belief in the power of education have been the driving force behind every step I’ve taken. With over five years of experience in program and risk management, I realized that to truly honor my family’s sacrifices and to fulfill my potential, I needed to elevate my skills and strategic thinking. The decision to pursue an MBA at IIM Kozhikode was not just about advancing my career—it was about breaking barriers and setting a new precedent for what is possible in my family. After graduation, I aspire to transition into a senior management role within the consulting industry, where I can leverage my expertise to drive meaningful change in organizations. My ultimate goal is to become a leader who not only drives business success, but also inspires others from similar backgrounds to aim high and break through the challenges that life may present. This MBA is not just a degree; it’s a testament to resilience, ambition, and the power of education to transform lives.” DON’T MISS: MEET IIM KOZHIKODE’S PGP-BL CLASS OF 2025